We stayed with a group of 24 in early July. We'd stayed in a very hot area before, and Antigua was beautiful, as was the hotel. It's just a block and a half from the downtown square, where President Putin rode with his motorcade while we were there. Within close walking distance of the market, churches, restaurants, etc. It was actually cool in the evenings, including up on the beautiful Hotel Carmen rooftop. I know the TVs work, because not only did we check the weather, but the kids in our group watched a fair amount of TV. Nice courtyard and nice little business/computer center. Great hotel in a lovely area.

In June of 2007, our group of 10 Presbyterian mission project workers made the El Carmen our hotel of choice as we explored Antigua, the former capital of Guatemala. From Isai Gonzalez at the front desk, to Mayra Garcia the concierge and travel agent located in the hotel, all the way to Roberto Lara the owner of the El Camen all made our stay, convenient, comfortable, and affordable. You can't miss by choosing the El Carmen as your Antiguan hotel.

I love Hotel El Carmen!!
My experience was fantastic!!! this hotel has a wonderfull vew, you can see the mountains and the "agua volcano' and from the roof you can see the churches,ruins and all the colonial beauty. The location it's in a really good place because it's very near to the central park, the artesanies market, and near to any other place you want to visit. If you are hungry, you can find delicious and fresh food at the hotel... with very friendly people...
The hotel has hot water, good ilumination, and the rooms have a good size ... obviously good prices too!!!

What a little treasure!, After searching way too long for a hotel we settled on this hotel (a group of 5) and we were all delighted with the property from the simple but well done breakfasts, to the spacious rooms and the kind service (not always quick by US standards), but we were in latino mode so it was fine.
THe hotel is in a great location and its size is a big plus. It gives you the feel of intimacy even though you are a visitor.
Another reason this hotel is awesome if the roof top with incredible views of the mountains/volcanoes and a hottub also. Watching sunset in the hottub was incredible.
The only downside was one night some other guests came home and did not realize their voices carry into the other rooms as the inner courtyard is enclosed (which amplifies noise).
Other than this, it was a wonderful stay, in a great place, at a great price.