Editor Pick
Hostal Las Mercedes
The three-star Hostal Las Mercedes is located just south of the centre of Arequipa, on the wide Avenida La Marina that runs parallel to the Rio Chili. The walk to the Plaza de Armas is not far, but you may want to take 10-15 minutes over it. At 2,380m altitude you can get out of puff quicker than you realise.
The Hostal itself is a big yellow building, with lovely tranquil gardens out back. You get a good view from the rooms up the grand wooden staircase, but not from those on the ground floor. It has a (slow) Internet connection for reasonable rates, and can arrange laundry for you. Downstairs there is a formal study with a fireplace, large comfy chairs, and hunting trophies. It is a room befitting Arequipa's stern, intellectual vision of itself.
My room came equipped with comfy beds and an ensuite bathroom. The night porter is a great guy. Despite his lack of English and my lack of Spanish we had a laugh sat in the lobby flicking between Star Wars and XXX on the cable while I waited for friends to get ready for a night out.
My guidebook warned against walking the streets of Arequipa alone at night. The hotel was able to book a taxi to take us to a club. It also has a high fence, where you have to buzz for entry. I have to say, I never felt threatened in Arequipa, but Hostal Las Mercedes is clearly a very safe place to stay. I would certainly recommend it.
From journal Ary Quepay - Here I Rest