From US$269 per night
– Incredibly kind and helpful staff
– While the suites have fluffy warm robes, the regular rooms should too
“Nothing is too much trouble” at El Mercado, and it isn’t!
I asked for help with a Spanish translation, and instead of just writing it down for me, the receptionist walked with me to the tailor I wanted to visit, explained what I wanted done, negotiated a fair price for me, and even offered to pick it up for me later in the day. Now that’s service!
El Mercado is a boutique hotel — part of the Mountain Lodges of Peru family — just a few blocks from Plaza de Armas and from Cusco’s main market. The hotel has a market theme, designed by architect Jordi Puig, with a restaurant boasting market fresh food, and decor reflecting home-cooking and deliciousness. Kids also love the rocking horses placed throughout the public areas, the big courtyard to play in, and the pudding and jello (very popular in Cusco) snacks available all-day. Parents will likely prefer the tea and coffee station.
The breakfast room is nicknamed the “Happy Room” and it is. Nadia mixes up delicious fresh juices and prepares “emolientera”, a traditional Cusco hot beverage made of herbs and fruit tisane, said to cure ills and aid in digestion. There’s an abundance of delicious choices at breakfast (included in rates). If you have an early morning tour booked, not to worry — a breakfast to go will be packed up for you.
Rooms are cozy, each different from the other. You can fill a hot water bottle to keep your toes warm in bed, though the rooms have heated walls that radiate warmth. Perched slightly on a hill, the views out into central Cusco are stunning,
