Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Bo

Bo means “water” in the indigenous Tzotzil language of Chiapas, and water nourishes the lush greenery and bright begonias of this trendy boutique hotel's central courtyard, perhaps the only nod to standard colonial-style San Cristobal lodging here. The open-plan lobby, quirky loft library, and hip bar and restaurant scene often spilling out to the garden and pool, combined with the eclectic mix of sleek wood, leather details, hexagonal-tiled floors, and colorful textiles, all immediately set Bo apart from older, more traditional offerings in the area. Two floors of rooms line three sides of the peaceful courtyard; all have high ceilings, large windows (some with views of surrounding mountains), and sliding wood doors to separate the modern bathrooms, and are furnished in the neutral earth tones of pine and stone. Colorful indigenous designs on the handwoven wool spreads punctuate the otherwise subdued décor that is more Scandinavian modern than colonial Mexican. Suites have private gardens and fireplaces. Add an attentive staff anticipating your needs from the moment they welcome you with a piping cup of Chiapaneco hot chocolate and you find yourself in one of San Cristóbal’s most harmonious new places to stay.