As you approach the Casa Carmel, it looks pretty plain with the typical conservative facade of many homes in Guatemala City. But once you are inside, all that changes. It is an old home, beautifully restored and you are greeted by a gracious entry hall, a beautifully furnished and comfortable living room, a soaring ceiling and gorgeous wood everywhere. The house is not that big - it has only four rooms - but you can immerse yourself in the works of art and antiques everywhere. The small back patio has a comfortable seating area complete with fountain. The small kitchen can provide a delicious breakfast for a small extra charge.

Each of the rooms is configured and decorated differently - I stayed in a room at the back of the house that has a queen-size bed and a door to the small patio/rooftop area outside. There was some noise of the city traffic but nothing really distracting or bothersome for sleeping. An oasis in the city, complete with flowering vines.

In contrast to the renovated and restored antiques, the bathroom is a modern gem with glass blocks in the shower and excellent new fixtures -- plenty of hot water.

It's not far from the Central Park of Zone 1 and the National Palace and National Library. One of the pleasant experiences is to walk about 3 blocks and catch the pedestrian mall on 6th avenue. This is a street that has been blocked off for only pedestrian traffic and is lined with shops and restaurants of all kinds and extends all the way to the Central Park. . Within three blocks of the Casa Carmel is an ATM, several restaurants, including a McDonalds, and a small grocery store. Taxis regularly drive down the street in front of the hotel so no problem there.

You could stay in a concrete high-rise hotel - or - choose Casa Carmel for a lovely and unique experience. I will definitely be staying there on my next visit to Guatemala City.