A Wonderful Week in Puebla Mexico

I travel for a living and work in the tourism industry so when it comes to taking my own vacation I try to choose out of the ordinary destinations. I enjoy Mexico and cooking and after doing research I decided upon Meson Sacristia. During the planning process all of my e-mail correspondence and questions to the hotel were answered in a timely manner by Elisa.

Getting to Puebla is quite easy from the USA with Continental Airlines offering flights from Houston directly to the Puebla Airport. It is so much easier than flying into Mexico City. It was a rainy night when I arrived and I was met by the charming Gerardo who had been sent by the hotel to retrieve me. Upon arrival at the hotel I was greeted warmly by the staff and given a fruity welcome cocktail. Check in was fast and efficient.

The hotel has eight rooms and I was staying in Master Suite #1 Cajonera. My suite was large and filled with antiques. It was very clean and even had a coffee maker and a plate of typical sweets made in Puebla. I found the bed to be comfortable and the room had air conditioning and a ceiling fan. While it is not hot in Puebla in August, I did appreciate having the convenience of air conditioning. The bathroom was adequate and I never had problems with water pressure or hot water. Keep in mind that this is a 250 year old property and for me it was a very charming and comfortable place to stay. The location can't be beat and is within walking distance of all of the historic center of Puebla.

I had purchased a cooking school package at Meson Sacristia. Upon my arrival I was notified that Chef Alonso, who was to be teaching the cooking class, was ill. I was quite disappointed since my main purpose of choosing this hotel and location was to attend cooking classes. Lizbet, the Public Relations representative, was very helpful and understanding and offered me alternatives to cooking classes. The hotel can arrange; painting classes, Talavera pottery making classes, photography classes and in suite spa services. Lizbet worked with me and I decided upon a walking city tour, an in suite massage and two cooking classes and a market trip with a different chef.

My private cooking classes with Chef Saul and Lizbet were wonderful. I speak spanish fluently and enjoyed my interactions with the staff. Chef Saul stressed safety and techniques in addition to teaching me how to cook authentic Mexican cuisine. The classes were very worthwhile, fun and educational. I was presented with a certificate, apron and cookbook upon completion.

All breakfasts and several dinners were included in my package. The restaurant, which is in the courtyard of the hotel, served delicious meals. The waiters were very professional and attentive. If you go during August, this is the season of Chiles En Nogada, a very special regional dish. The restaurant does an outstanding job on this dish. There is live music in the courtyard on the weekends but I did not find this to be disruptive and enjoyed the festive atmosphere.

As a woman traveling alone, I felt that the hotel staff went out of its way to make sure I was safe and cared for during my stay. I spent one week at Mesone Sacristia and I really hated to leave and hope to return as soon as possible. Puebla is a wonderful place to get away and to holiday without the throngs of tourists. I highly recommend this hotel and destination.