Casona de la China Poblana

This charming boutique hotel is in a beautiful colonial house located in the heart of Puebla. It was once home to Catarina of San Juan, otherwise known as the China Poblana, a princess from India who was captured as a slave before joining the Chinese Navy and coming to Mexico, where she was embraced by the people of Puebla. Today, her legacy lives on in her former residence, with its unique architecture and antique fittings.

There are just ten guest rooms at the hotel, each individually named and tastefully decorated in a traditional style. Private balconies make for great people watching in this vibrant area. Other spaces in the hotel include its superb restaurant, Ekos, which serves a fantastic breakfast and the area’s signature dish, mole poblano, to be enjoyed in the beautiful central courtyard. Then sample a cocktail in the stylish bar, or choose a fine wine from the well-stocked cellar.