Charles F.
Yelp
I have visited Guadalajara many times over the last 20 years and have stayed at boutique hotels to chain hotels and independent hotels
I really have been impressed with Hotel Dali Plaza. The staff, the location, and the overall charm have made it my preferred choice when staying in GDL.
Let's start with the staff, they treat everyone with genuine kindness. It doesn't matter if you are a high roller from Las Vegas or just a simple dude from Boise, Idaho. The entry attendant is always willing to give out his top picks for eats, treats, and attractions. The front desk team is so kind and understanding. Gema, Gabriella, and the front desk team are super chill and friendly.
PRO-TIP: Before you leave the hotel to go up, turn in your room key. There will be a dedicated place to drop it off. You'll be issued a new one when you get back.
The lounge is relaxing and is great for people watching. Why do you ask? Hotel Dali Plaza has situated a quick 5-10-minute walk to the city center. Exit to the left and start your walk.
PRO-TIP 2: Make sure you have bags like a target bag or one from Trader Joe's. If you're granola like me, you have a Chico bag that rolls itself into a ball for compact storage. All the stores will not provide you with a bag. The only place that will give you a plastic bag is the gigantic Libertad indoor swap meet. That's a review for another time.
I've entered and exited multiple times without any issues, but you want to get back to the hotel before 10 pm. It's not that anything bad is going to happen to you after 10 pm but just don't be stupid and be aware of your surroundings.
There is a parking garage that I didn't use. Driving in GDL is a pain in the ass. Either walk it or catch an Uber. Skip the taxi.
The rooms are spacious. My typical room is s king size room with a king-size bed. There's s desk, closet, and bathroom
PRO-TIP 3: Don't go looking for the light switch in the closet because it's doesn't exist. The functionality is controlled by the door. Opening the door activates the light in the closet and vice versa.
The bed is big albeit a little hard but if you walk 15,000 steps a day, it won't matter much.
The bathroom and shower are adequate and modern.
PRO-TIP 4: When you are in your room, keep your room key inserted in its docking bay holder by the front door. If you don't, you will
Not have any electricity in the room. The room is powered by the room key in its docking station. It's kind of handy in one sense that you'll never have to go looking for the key card in your room.
Here's my only grip. You can hear neighboring rooms. One night I felt like a voyeur and the subsequent night, I hear kids running back and forth. On the third night, it was a cackle of laughs from a bachelorette party. It's really not a big deal and it's definitely not a deal-breaker for me.
I didn't eat at the restaurant since I am vegan so I can't rate the restaurant downstairs
Hotel Dali is value-priced at less than $40 USD a night for downtown GDL with a super friendly and attentive staff plus a clean and spacious room.
I would totally recommend Hotel Dali Plaza and if you do go and stay please make sure to get yourself with Dali by the elevators