La Casona is a self-described "boutique hotel" in a beutifully restored old mansion, conveniently located in Colonia Roma but a short walk to all the restaurants and nightlife of Condesa. We stayed two nights using a weekend special. It was $279 which included taxes, a ride to the airport, and a few other goodies. There is a metro station a few blocks away.

The public areas of the hotel are attractive, with polished dark wood floors and railings, some music-related decor, and cozy dining and sitting areas. Our room was large, with balcony windows that opened to a quiet side street. The bathroom was equally large, and everything worked. well. Our room had a strong shower -- important for blasting off the smell and grime after a long day of exploring D.F.

There were a couple of things that we felt could have been improved:

The front desk service was inconsistent. The first day, the person seemed almost bothered when we had questions about the hotel or advice on getting around. The next two days, though, the service improved.

The bedding was acceptable, but was not of the quality I would expect if paying the full rate of about $180 per night. This applies to both the mattress and the covers.

Overall, I'd give it high marks for convenience and attractiveness, but take off a few points for service and comfort, not because they were terrible, but because they made the hotel feel like it was still a work in progress that hasn't quite reached the level of luxury and sophistication it is aiming for.

La Casona is located in the northwestern edge of the Colonia Roma, very close to the Colonia Condesa. Nearby there are no other hotels and therefore no tourists, just middle class Mexicans. The area is lively during the day and very quite at night. The building is from the early 1900s, obviously renovated and full of character. We had an exterior room, which was spacious and interesting. It faced a side street, so there was no traffic noise. However, early in the morning I could hear a few hundred birds singing from the leafy main street where the hotel is located (not a bad way to wake up). The staff was very friendly and efficient: Our luggage didn't arrive in our flight, and the staff took care of following up with the airline and arranging for delivery to our rooms the following day. Also, we told them that we wanted to visit the house of famous Mexican architect Luis Barragan (not a common tourist spot) and they took care of arranging the visit while we went for lunch to Contramar. This is one of the best seafood restaurants in the city, and it is a couple of blocks from the hotel (unfortunately it is not open for dinner). The coffee shop next door is very convenient (try the cafe cortado). There are several art galleries nearby (Casa Lamm is walking distance from the hotel) and the lovely Parque Mexico and Calle Amsterdam are also within 15min walking distance (try Bistro Mosaico and the fresh fruit juices on the opposite corner).

I was extremely happy with this hotel. Whilst it is pricey it had a lovely feel, great restaurant and really spacious, tasteful rooms (3rd floor). Additionally, high speed internet was available for no charge. The staff were helpful and professional. The location is good with cafes and a shopping centre nearby. Highly recommended.

Hotel staff, after negotiation, will quote $150 a day for a car and driver.
Driver will be paid $75, an excessive recommendation fee, don't you think?

The hotel is in a pleasant, safe, quiet location, buffet breakfast is nice, beds are boards,
a tad musty, stairs, inadequate bed reading lights. Mostly older European guests.