Hotel Sureño

Everyone’s aware of Cancún’s megaresorts and Tulum’s bohemian-chic beachfront hotels; fewer visitors to the Yucatán Peninsula consider staying in the state capital of Mérida. But the city is full of colonial buildings turned into appealing modern hotels, like Hotel Sureño, which recently opened in the historic center.

The hotel sees a steady stream of people, thanks to a great restaurant and a stylish rooftop bar and pool deck that regularly hosts happy hours, DJ sets, and live jazz. But it’s particularly pleasurable to check into one of Hotel Sureño’s 17 rooms. They’re like staying in the stylish guest room of a well-traveled friend, outfitted in a mix of contemporary décor and eclectic details like antique writing desks, wicker headboards, abstract artwork, vintage radios and globes, and ceramics by local artisans.

A notable benefit of an overnight stay is that the rooftop is exclusively open to guests during the day. The rule ensures that the breezy terrace, its aquamarine pool draped with fluttering white fabric and surrounded by hammocks, lounge space, and potted plants, remains as laid-back as possible. It opens to the public just before sunset, and plenty of restaurant diners come up for tropical drinks before or after their meal, creating an ambience that’s just buzzy enough — ideal for a refreshing dip or a poolside cocktail after a day out exploring Mayan ruins or swimming in cenotes.