Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Lima has seen its high-end business slip away as upscale establishments have shifted to
San Isidro and Miraflores. Although security in downtown has improved greatly, it is ad-
visable to take taxis at night and not to display expensive camera gear or jewelry.
1900 Backpackers $
( 424-3358;
www.1900hostel.com
;
Av Garcilazo de la Vega 1588; dm S21-29, d/tw/tr
incl breakfast 74/80/111; )
A sudden new hot spot in downtown Lima, this old man-
sion designed by Gustavo Eiffel has been revamped with modern design touches, though
it maintains the marble floors and other turn-of-the-century flourishes. For a hostel it's
downright gorgeous. Rooms are smart and simple, with bunks shoulder-to-shoulder.
There's a tiny kitchen and cool common spaces, like a pool room with bar and red chande-
lier. Though the location is riddled with traffic exhaust during the day, there's the plus of
having a premier museum right across the street.
HOSTEL
Clifford Hotel $$
( 433-4249;
www.thecliffordhotel.com.pe
; Parque Hernán Velarde 27; s/d/tr/ste incl
breakfast S143/169/208/247; )
On a quiet cul-de-sac, this smart hotel occupies an
elegant 1930s
casona
. Relax in the common areas with Spanish baroque touches. By con-
trast, the 21 carpeted rooms are modern, and come equipped with fans, cable TV and tele-
phones. There's a bar, a restaurant and a lovely garden with a fountain.
HOTEL
Gran Hotel Bolívar $$
( 619-7171; Jirón de la Unión 958; s/d/tr S169/195/234; )
For anyone chasing the
retro atmosphere of a gilded age, check out this venerable 1924 hotel on the Plaza San
Martín. Figures like Clark Gable, Mick Jagger and Robert Kennedy all tucked in here,
once among the most luxurious accommodations in Latin America. Today, it is frayed at
the edges, but possesses the rare finesse of a grand dame. It's also employee-owned, a rar-
ity in the hotel world, which translates to impeccable and entertaining service even from
the bellhop.
HISTORIC HOTEL
Familia Rodríguez $
HOMESTAY
