St Regis Mexico City [Master Thread]
Dec 23, 2009, 8:35 am
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Columbus, OH
Programs: AA-EXP 3MM, Bonvoy Lifetime Titanium
Posts: 582
St Regis Mexico City [Master Thread]
I've stayed there twice earlier this fall in September and October. Was upgraded to a Luxury Suite each time and must say the I really loved the decor and finishes in this hotel and suite. The lobby and bar area are very low key and relaxing and the service provided there is very friendly and genuine. I had breakfast several times in the hotel's Diana restuarant, and while the food was good, the service in the restuarant was a bit dissapointing and perhaps since, it has gotten better. The spa and workout rooms are great with very high-end equipment. The location is great right on La Reforma within walking distance to many place and points of interest and I felt safe walking around all times of day. I even walked to the Centro Historico from there. While I was there before their recent 'official' grand opening, it seemed a little quiet with very low occupancy, I imagine that is probably changed now.
If anyone has specific questions please let me know.
If anyone has specific questions please let me know.
Dec 23, 2009, 10:18 am
#2
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: New York City
Posts: 264
Hi Gene,
This is great - thanks for posting.
A few more questions, if you get a moment:
Are there any outdoor spaces at the hotel? I get the impression that "Diana" has a terrace but, other than that, everything is indoors (unlike the Four Seasons or the Camino Real).
Also, I assume the swimming pool and sauna are free for guests. Did you notice whether there was a jacuzzi? Is there space just to hang out up there, without getting spa treatments?
Sometimes I find the security in MEX hotels a little overbearing. Did it seem so at the St Regis?
Finally, how long was the walk to Centro Historico? I have often wanted to do that walk, but have never actually tried...
Thanks, Gene!
Joe
This is great - thanks for posting.
A few more questions, if you get a moment:
Are there any outdoor spaces at the hotel? I get the impression that "Diana" has a terrace but, other than that, everything is indoors (unlike the Four Seasons or the Camino Real).
Also, I assume the swimming pool and sauna are free for guests. Did you notice whether there was a jacuzzi? Is there space just to hang out up there, without getting spa treatments?
Sometimes I find the security in MEX hotels a little overbearing. Did it seem so at the St Regis?
Finally, how long was the walk to Centro Historico? I have often wanted to do that walk, but have never actually tried...
Thanks, Gene!
Joe
Dec 23, 2009, 11:29 am
#3
Join Date: Dec 2009
Programs: SPG Plat
Posts: 6
Upgrade
Dec 24, 2009, 9:02 am
#4
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Columbus, OH
Programs: AA-EXP 3MM, Bonvoy Lifetime Titanium
Posts: 582
Hi Gene,
This is great - thanks for posting.
A few more questions, if you get a moment:
Are there any outdoor spaces at the hotel? I get the impression that "Diana" has a terrace but, other than that, everything is indoors (unlike the Four Seasons or the Camino Real).
Also, I assume the swimming pool and sauna are free for guests. Did you notice whether there was a jacuzzi? Is there space just to hang out up there, without getting spa treatments?
Sometimes I find the security in MEX hotels a little overbearing. Did it seem so at the St Regis?
Finally, how long was the walk to Centro Historico? I have often wanted to do that walk, but have never actually tried...
Thanks, Gene!
Joe
This is great - thanks for posting.
A few more questions, if you get a moment:
Are there any outdoor spaces at the hotel? I get the impression that "Diana" has a terrace but, other than that, everything is indoors (unlike the Four Seasons or the Camino Real).
Also, I assume the swimming pool and sauna are free for guests. Did you notice whether there was a jacuzzi? Is there space just to hang out up there, without getting spa treatments?
Sometimes I find the security in MEX hotels a little overbearing. Did it seem so at the St Regis?
Finally, how long was the walk to Centro Historico? I have often wanted to do that walk, but have never actually tried...
Thanks, Gene!
Joe
- The only outdoor space is the terrace of the Diana restuarant, which by the way is very pleasant space with great views of the Diana fountain / roundabout. Great to have breakfast out there
- Can't remember if there was a jacuzzi or not, but woudl be surprised if there wasn't. Yes the wet area is accesible to non-spa guests and had a few loungers around to relax in. The gym, btw, was fabulous, had one of those super cool looking Kenisis (sp?) Walls
- Security wasn't actually visible, I assume they have good camera and such. You enter the hotel through a common lobby with the rest of the building on the ground floor. There are just a few bellman around. You take the elevator up to the 3rd floor Hotel Lobby for check-in. To get to your room, you transfer to a seperate elevator bank that is past the front desk. I assume they act as a security layer. The guest elevators require your key-card each time.
- I walked with a local so we were talking and such and I didn't really notice the time, but if I had to guess, I would say it was a leisurly 30 or so minute walk. You'll end up stopping by the Alemeda park for a stroll before you get to the Fine Arts palace. There's lots of street art and monuments you pass on the way.
Dec 24, 2009, 9:07 am
#5
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Columbus, OH
Programs: AA-EXP 3MM, Bonvoy Lifetime Titanium
Posts: 582
To be fair to the St. Regis, though I wasn't pre-blocked to a suite, they really were not difficult and were genuinely open to looking to see if a suite was available. Originally I was offered an Executive Room / Jr. Suite but with a little perseverance, a Luxury Suite was made available
Which was quite fabulous.This hotel has the most amazing carpets, so plush and soft.
Dec 24, 2009, 9:54 am
#6
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Columbus, OH
Programs: AA-EXP 3MM, Bonvoy Lifetime Titanium
Posts: 582
Pictures here
Dec 25, 2009, 9:49 pm
#8
Join Date: May 2008
Posts: 188
Swimming pool and sauna both free for guests, and there are two jacuzzis, one either side of the pool, with great views. No suite upgrade for this plat a couple of day's back, but I never like to ask, what with it being a published benefit and all; an approach that's netted me zero suites in 15 stays since making platinum - guess I'm going to have to be a bit more pushy in future ... but that's for another thread.
Jan 3, 2010, 9:23 pm
#9
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: Manchester, England
Programs: Bonvoy LT Plat, HH Diamond, IHG Plat, BMI Gold (RIP)
Posts: 8,018
We stayed at the St Regis Mexico City for 4 nights over the New Year period and generally were pretty impressed, so I thought I would share a few observations on the property.
Platinum upgrade denied
First of all as a Plat member we were fobbed off at check-in that we had been upgraded to a nice Deluxe room on a high floor. I pointed out that a Deluxe room was the standard room and indeed the room type I had booked. I was then told that upgrades were subject to availability and that nothing was available. Having seen all room types available for the 4 nights of our stay on SPG.com that morning, I thought something may have been available, even if it was just a Grand Deluxe room. I asked if they were sold out, but was told cryptically that 'nothing was available' and they wouldn't answer how busy they were.
A call to the PC line later and they phoned the hotel and asked about room availability - they were happy to sell a standard Exec Suite, or a Grand Deluxe to the Concierge. When they then enquired as to why they weren't able to upgrade a Platinum guest, the rooms were amazingly unavailable for sale. The hotel was extremely quiet during our time there with very few guests. We were told off the record by one of the staff later in our stay that the hotel only had a couple of floors in active use and they had been instructed to hold back upgrades so as to keep wear and tear down on the better rooms. This was not a great start, but was pretty much the only blot on the whole experience at the hotel.
Check-in
After arriving on the ground level, you are escorted up to the main lobby area on the 3rd floor. Here you are offered a welcome glass of water or champagne. We did the very un-FT thing and went for water.
Aside from the issue above, the check-in process is pretty swift, with the front desk being well staffed, especially for the low volume of guests.
Deluxe Room - 10th floor
A lack of an upgrade is less of an issue at the St Regis as even the basic deluxe rooms are well sized and comfortable enough. We were given a room with a view of La Reforma and across towards the park. The views were great, but even on the 10th floor the noise of the traffic, especially in the evenings, is pretty loud. If you are a light sleeper, then I would advise ear plugs.
The Staff
I have to make mention of the staff at the hotel. All very friendly, but in a professional and courteous way. From the doormen, through to the front desk, the restaurant staff and the butlers, they were all good and a pleasure to deal with.
Security
As others have mentioned security, there weren't obvious security staff at the hotel, although it was well resourced and we felt completely safe and well looked after during our time there. The lift security systems requiring a pass to get from the lobby to the hotel room floors make things even safer. Anyone wishing to gain access from the lobby to the rooms will also need to pass by the concierge and front desks before attempting to use the lift, so again well secured.
The local area
Having not been to Mexico City before and having read some tales of caution prior to our visit, we were happy to find that the local area was very visibly policed and seemingly very safe. We happily walked around the local area, taking strolls up La Reforma to the Sheraton in one direction and through to the park and the W in the other direction. It is all very pleasant, with a number of other hotels, restaurants and museums in these areas.
Diana Restaurant
We had American breakfast included in our room rate. This is not a buffet service, but actually a fixed breakfast of egg, hash brown and bacon or sausage, plus fruit juice and tea or coffee. The food was nice, but a little uninspiring day after day as there is no choice. I downgraded to a continental breakfast some days, preferring to stick to a pasty basket instead of the cooked option.
As GeneCMH found, the service is a little bit slow. Despite us being the only diners on 2 mornings, it still took 45 minutes to get a breakfast ordered, delivered and eaten due to the various staff doing other things to keep busy.
Butler Service
Unlike at other St Regis hotels, the Butler service here is a bit more limited at inclusive options. For example only 2 items of clothing are pressed for free here on arrival.
Only tea and coffee is free via the Butler service and even then, it is only free in the morning until 11am. Compared with the St Regis Singapore with 24 hour tea, coffee and selected other beverages it is rather poor in comparison.
Gym and spa
We didn't visit the spa for a treatment, but the prices were reasonable compared with other luxury hotels. The gym was well kitted out though with a good range of cardio and weight equipment. The gym is on the 15th floor, with great views over the Diana fountain and La Reforma.
Wifi internet
The wifi was very fast. (Probably due to the lack of guests) It can be bought for 12 hour or 1 day blocks of time. It costs around $220 for 24 hours. (I forget the exact price)
Airport Car
We booked a hotel car to the airport, which costs US$40 + 10% service if you wish to bill it to your room. This was well worth doing as the car service is quick and reliable and worth the premium compared to airport transfer services or a cab.
A few nice touches
A large fruit bowl was in the room throughout, with fruit being replaced on a daily basis. We also received a plate of chocolates in the room on arrival.
We also received a 'Happy New Year' gift which was an edible plate, on which there was an edible container filled with chocolates and candies.
We were also invited by the hotel to a champagne reception on New Years Eve. Sadly we missed it as we were late back from a tour.
Overall
We enjoyed our stay at the hotel. It is a good property in a good location. A little bit rough around the edges on the service at times, but no doubt it will improve with practice over time. We'd definitely stay here again if we were to visit Mexico City again.
Finally, there are a few pictures of the hotel from our visit here.
Platinum upgrade denied
First of all as a Plat member we were fobbed off at check-in that we had been upgraded to a nice Deluxe room on a high floor. I pointed out that a Deluxe room was the standard room and indeed the room type I had booked. I was then told that upgrades were subject to availability and that nothing was available. Having seen all room types available for the 4 nights of our stay on SPG.com that morning, I thought something may have been available, even if it was just a Grand Deluxe room. I asked if they were sold out, but was told cryptically that 'nothing was available' and they wouldn't answer how busy they were.
A call to the PC line later and they phoned the hotel and asked about room availability - they were happy to sell a standard Exec Suite, or a Grand Deluxe to the Concierge. When they then enquired as to why they weren't able to upgrade a Platinum guest, the rooms were amazingly unavailable for sale. The hotel was extremely quiet during our time there with very few guests. We were told off the record by one of the staff later in our stay that the hotel only had a couple of floors in active use and they had been instructed to hold back upgrades so as to keep wear and tear down on the better rooms. This was not a great start, but was pretty much the only blot on the whole experience at the hotel.
Check-in
After arriving on the ground level, you are escorted up to the main lobby area on the 3rd floor. Here you are offered a welcome glass of water or champagne. We did the very un-FT thing and went for water.
Aside from the issue above, the check-in process is pretty swift, with the front desk being well staffed, especially for the low volume of guests.
Deluxe Room - 10th floor
A lack of an upgrade is less of an issue at the St Regis as even the basic deluxe rooms are well sized and comfortable enough. We were given a room with a view of La Reforma and across towards the park. The views were great, but even on the 10th floor the noise of the traffic, especially in the evenings, is pretty loud. If you are a light sleeper, then I would advise ear plugs.
The Staff
I have to make mention of the staff at the hotel. All very friendly, but in a professional and courteous way. From the doormen, through to the front desk, the restaurant staff and the butlers, they were all good and a pleasure to deal with.
Security
As others have mentioned security, there weren't obvious security staff at the hotel, although it was well resourced and we felt completely safe and well looked after during our time there. The lift security systems requiring a pass to get from the lobby to the hotel room floors make things even safer. Anyone wishing to gain access from the lobby to the rooms will also need to pass by the concierge and front desks before attempting to use the lift, so again well secured.
The local area
Having not been to Mexico City before and having read some tales of caution prior to our visit, we were happy to find that the local area was very visibly policed and seemingly very safe. We happily walked around the local area, taking strolls up La Reforma to the Sheraton in one direction and through to the park and the W in the other direction. It is all very pleasant, with a number of other hotels, restaurants and museums in these areas.
Diana Restaurant
We had American breakfast included in our room rate. This is not a buffet service, but actually a fixed breakfast of egg, hash brown and bacon or sausage, plus fruit juice and tea or coffee. The food was nice, but a little uninspiring day after day as there is no choice. I downgraded to a continental breakfast some days, preferring to stick to a pasty basket instead of the cooked option.
As GeneCMH found, the service is a little bit slow. Despite us being the only diners on 2 mornings, it still took 45 minutes to get a breakfast ordered, delivered and eaten due to the various staff doing other things to keep busy.
Butler Service
Unlike at other St Regis hotels, the Butler service here is a bit more limited at inclusive options. For example only 2 items of clothing are pressed for free here on arrival.
Only tea and coffee is free via the Butler service and even then, it is only free in the morning until 11am. Compared with the St Regis Singapore with 24 hour tea, coffee and selected other beverages it is rather poor in comparison.
Gym and spa
We didn't visit the spa for a treatment, but the prices were reasonable compared with other luxury hotels. The gym was well kitted out though with a good range of cardio and weight equipment. The gym is on the 15th floor, with great views over the Diana fountain and La Reforma.
Wifi internet
The wifi was very fast. (Probably due to the lack of guests) It can be bought for 12 hour or 1 day blocks of time. It costs around $220 for 24 hours. (I forget the exact price)
Airport Car
We booked a hotel car to the airport, which costs US$40 + 10% service if you wish to bill it to your room. This was well worth doing as the car service is quick and reliable and worth the premium compared to airport transfer services or a cab.
A few nice touches
A large fruit bowl was in the room throughout, with fruit being replaced on a daily basis. We also received a plate of chocolates in the room on arrival.
We also received a 'Happy New Year' gift which was an edible plate, on which there was an edible container filled with chocolates and candies.
We were also invited by the hotel to a champagne reception on New Years Eve. Sadly we missed it as we were late back from a tour.
Overall
We enjoyed our stay at the hotel. It is a good property in a good location. A little bit rough around the edges on the service at times, but no doubt it will improve with practice over time. We'd definitely stay here again if we were to visit Mexico City again.
Finally, there are a few pictures of the hotel from our visit here.
Jan 5, 2010, 1:41 pm
#10
Join Date: Dec 2009
Programs: SPG Plat
Posts: 6
Great Stay
Stayed in this hotel for a little more than a week including Christmas and NYD. Paid less than $140 for a night including breakfast. Was upgraded to an executive suite on 12th floor. Very nice hotel and great service.
The suite has a very large bathroom. The shower room is also a steam room. Nice to stretch in. The toilet is in a seperate room with a sink.
The living room has an L shaped couch, a captain chair, and a very big leather coffee table. A large TV and desk of course.
The bedroom also has a large TV. Plenty of closet space. And the door to the living room has very good sound proof. Sheets are very good quality as other St. Regis.
I could choose American breakfast, or a la carte. The egg benedict was very good. I had 2 days in a row. The omelet was a little dry though.
Overall, a very good stay and will be back.
The suite has a very large bathroom. The shower room is also a steam room. Nice to stretch in. The toilet is in a seperate room with a sink.
The living room has an L shaped couch, a captain chair, and a very big leather coffee table. A large TV and desk of course.
The bedroom also has a large TV. Plenty of closet space. And the door to the living room has very good sound proof. Sheets are very good quality as other St. Regis.
I could choose American breakfast, or a la carte. The egg benedict was very good. I had 2 days in a row. The omelet was a little dry though.
Overall, a very good stay and will be back.
Sep 13, 2010, 2:10 pm
#11
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: West Coast USA
Programs: UA GS/4 MM, AA Exec Plat, Lifetime Hilton D, Hyatt G, Marriott Titanium earned Ambassador
Posts: 7,553
Hello. The website mentions $90 for airport transfer. Noted $40 herein. Any know reason for the difference? Also. Tours. Any and all comments on arranging for a private tour? Were tours booked from hotel? Prices? Thanks. There soon.
Nov 27, 2010, 3:59 pm
#12
Join Date: Nov 2007
Programs: LH Sen, Starwood Amb, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 340
Just spent a night at the St Regis Mexico City. Regarding previous posters' questions on airport transfer, it costs 40 dollars from the hotel to the airport but 90 dollars from the airport to the hotel. I guess they found that this somehow makes economic sense.
I can also confirm the previous observation by RAPC regarding their approach to platinum upgrades. I was assigned the same type of deluxe room as I reserved, on the tenth floor. When I asked about availability of suites, they said that suites were indeed available if I wanted one, but they had prepared this deluxe room for me because it is "enhanced" and has a nice view. I said fine, since I was only staying a night anyway. Later I discovered from their website that their enhanced normal rooms (aka grand deluxe) are actually located on the 12th and 14th floor, and not the tenth. The view was nothing to shout home about either.
As sometimes happens with other properties, the bill came with the internet charges included, which I had to remove on checkout. There is no lounge nor alternative breakfast/drinks arrangement for plats.
Otherwise the room was wonderful, and the concierge staff in particular were amazing. The butler was also excellent, save for forgetting my request for morning tea.
While I had a good stay and didn't care much for the upgrade, I am bewildered at the approach of quite a few starwood properties which still seem to hope that platinum members will not realize what they're entitled to. And, when confronted, they invent whatever excuse that comes to mind - either that your room is already "enhanced" in some imaginary way, or that no suites are available, etc. I am surprised that this still remains an issue after many years of comments from FT members regarding this matter.
I can also confirm the previous observation by RAPC regarding their approach to platinum upgrades. I was assigned the same type of deluxe room as I reserved, on the tenth floor. When I asked about availability of suites, they said that suites were indeed available if I wanted one, but they had prepared this deluxe room for me because it is "enhanced" and has a nice view. I said fine, since I was only staying a night anyway. Later I discovered from their website that their enhanced normal rooms (aka grand deluxe) are actually located on the 12th and 14th floor, and not the tenth. The view was nothing to shout home about either.
As sometimes happens with other properties, the bill came with the internet charges included, which I had to remove on checkout. There is no lounge nor alternative breakfast/drinks arrangement for plats.
Otherwise the room was wonderful, and the concierge staff in particular were amazing. The butler was also excellent, save for forgetting my request for morning tea.
While I had a good stay and didn't care much for the upgrade, I am bewildered at the approach of quite a few starwood properties which still seem to hope that platinum members will not realize what they're entitled to. And, when confronted, they invent whatever excuse that comes to mind - either that your room is already "enhanced" in some imaginary way, or that no suites are available, etc. I am surprised that this still remains an issue after many years of comments from FT members regarding this matter.
Nov 27, 2010, 5:16 pm
#13
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: From: PWM
Programs: United GS, Fairmont Platinum,SPG LTPlat, Hilton Diamond, MarriottGold..like the rest of the world
Posts: 4,401
While I had a good stay and didn't care much for the upgrade, I am bewildered at the approach of quite a few starwood properties which still seem to hope that platinum members will not realize what they're entitled to. And, when confronted, they invent whatever excuse that comes to mind - either that your room is already "enhanced" in some imaginary way, or that no suites are available, etc. I am surprised that this still remains an issue after many years of comments from FT members regarding this matter.
Nov 25, 2011, 6:34 pm
#14
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: LGA/JFK/EWR
Programs: UA 1K1.75MM, Hyatt Globalist, abandoned Marriott LTT (RIP SPG), Hertz PC
Posts: 21,166
Bump - any more recent experiences? Other benefits for Plats? Doing 3 days here next week, booked on a Deluxe that I don't think is a Breakfast rate, so guessing I'm OOL.
Jan 18, 2012, 2:55 pm
#15
Join Date: Nov 2005
Location: London, UK
Programs: Marriott Platinum, BA
Posts: 293
Have an upcoming 2 night reservation at the St Regis Mexico City and got a pretty good rate thanks to a successful BRG.
Sadly I am only an SPG gold so not expecting any real benefits but has anyone dined in the J&G Grill as I cannot find even a single review anywhere?
Sadly I am only an SPG gold so not expecting any real benefits but has anyone dined in the J&G Grill as I cannot find even a single review anywhere?