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Where We Stayed | Our Real Hotel Recs from 20 Countries
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items We’ve stayed in hotels, hostels, and family-friendly spots all over the world — from beachfront bungalows to airport crash pads. These are the places that stood out (for better or worse). Some had early check-in angels. Some just had soft beds and wo...
Sections
17
United States
Argentina
Uruguay
Paraguay
Mexico City | Airport Overnights at MEX
Canada | Airport & Transit Overnight Stays
United States
Quick stops, airport layovers, and a few unexpected upgrades — these are the U.S. hotels we’ve stayed in and would recommend. Not all were fancy, but all were functional for traveling families.
We landed in LA after a full day of travel from Tokyo — totally wrecked from the flight, time zone flip, and hunger-induced irritability. Hyatt Place LAX / Century Blvd came through: they let us check in four hours early and even upgraded our room. T...
Hyatt Place LAX | Early Check-In & Solid Layover Stay
We stayed here July 2023, right on the Strip at Paris Las Vegas. The hotel is massive, flashy, and full of energy — just what you expect from a Vegas stay. The rooms were comfortable and gave us a great base for diving into the chaos. Our first day w... https://www.instagram.com/p/Cu32wNhOQ9J/?img_index=1
Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino — Neon Nights on the Strip
After logging nearly 6,300 km on our Euro campervan adventure, we landed in Dallas just after 7 pm and checked straight into the Hyatt Regency right at the airport. Honestly, it was exactly what we needed after a long-haul flight. The beds felt amazi... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-tzsjVuGD6/?img_index=1
Hyatt Regency DFW International Airport — Comfort Stop After Euro Trip
Argentina
Family-tested hotel stays across Argentina — from city-center bases in Buenos Aires to more regional stays that worked with kids in tow.
We stayed here for 8 nights (July 20–28, 2025) and found it to be a reliable family base in Buenos Aires. Breakfast was included (weekends 8–11 AM, weekdays 7–10 AM), which made mornings easier with kids. The central location meant we could walk or g... https://www.instagram.com/p/DMWSGsByGWY/?img_index=14
Uno Buenos Aires Suites
For $44.46 a night (Aug 6–7, 2025), this stay in Tilcara was basic but full of rustic charm. Beds were simple, the atmosphere was no-frills, but the location couldn’t be better. Staying here gave us a true taste of small-town northern Argentina life ... https://www.instagram.com/p/DNC1vK6uVQJ/?img_index=11
La Casa de la Abuela Tilcara — Rustic Charm on a Budget
We stayed here Aug 3–5, 2025, and found it to be a straightforward, affordable base in Salta. The best part is location, location, location! The location was central, which made it easy to get around, and the rooms were simple but functional. Nothing... https://www.instagram.com/p/DM6rp-GOM_M/?img_index=1
Hotel GS, Salta — Affordable & Central
Uruguay
A mix of coastal and city-center stays in Uruguay — family-tested and chosen for convenience, comfort, or value during our travels.
Stayed July 30–Aug 2, 2025. Located right on the Rambla, this hotel delivered beautiful river views and easy access to Montevideo’s coastal walks. The style leaned old-school — elegant but with a slightly dated feel. Breakfast was plentiful, rooms we... https://www.instagram.com/p/DMwQQyLOcPx/?img_index=1
NH Montevideo Columbia — River Views & Classic Style
We booked this July 28–30, 2025. A cozy B&B in Colonia, it made a great short stopover with plenty of character. Rooms were simple but carried local charm, and the location near Colonia’s historic quarter gave it extra appeal. Not luxurious, but ... https://www.instagram.com/p/DMq7hrDyR1I/?img_index=1
Viajero Posada B&B, Colonia del Sacramento — Cozy Stopover
Paraguay
City-center and family-friendly hotel picks in Paraguay, chosen for comfort, convenience, and value during our travels.
From July 16–20, 2025, we stayed at Nobile Suites in Asunción. The location was central, making it easy to get around, and the rooms were spacious enough for our family. Breakfast was included, which made mornings simple. The hotel itself had a grand... https://www.instagram.com/p/DMMHA6NPAxb/?img_index=1
Nobile Suites Excelsior, Asunción — Central & Spacious
Mexico City | Airport Overnights at MEX
Quick, practical stays for early or late flights. Convenience first, kid friendly, low stress for connections.
We picked this hotel purely for convenience next to the airport — and it delivered. For an outbound connection with kids, it meant no long city transfer, just easy access to the terminal and food options right in or nearby. The rooms were simple but ... https://www.instagram.com/p/DL_fL1eOCD3/?img_index=1
We Hotel Aeropuerto (MEX) | Outbound Layover
Canada | Airport & Transit Overnight Stays
Quick, practical stays when flights demand early mornings or late nights. Comfort, convenience, and low stress near airports and transit hubs.
We stayed here for a transit night — just enough time to catch our connection with minimal hassle. The hotel is about 2.6 mi (≈4 km) from Vancouver Intl Airport, with a free shuttle to/from the airport and free parking for guests. Booking.com +3 hotels +3 expedia +3 Rooms are simple but clean, with essentials covered: AC, WiFi, fridge, and tea/coffee maker. hotels +1 Breakfast is complimentary (continental style), which saved us time and extra stress. The area has public transport access... https://www.instagram.com/p/Cwoyqijuzhs/?img_index=1
Days Inn by Wyndham Vancouver Airport — Richmond, BC
Guatemala
From cobblestone streets in Antigua to lakeside villages on Atitlán, Guatemala gave us a mix of charming, rustic, and family-friendly stays. These are the places we actually booked and experienced during our travels.
We stayed here Dec 23–26, 2023, and Porta del Lago was a solid family base in Panajachel. The property’s semi-circle design means most rooms face the lake, with balconies that frame the volcano views beautifully. The kids loved the pool and gardens, ... https://www.instagram.com/p/C1OLlcptCGR/?img_index=1
Porta Hotel del Lago, Panajachel — Lakeside Comfort & Scenic Views
We stayed here Dec 26–28, 2023, and it felt like stepping into history. The hotel is literally attached to the Arco de Santa Catalina, Antigua’s most-photographed landmark dating back to the 17th century. Originally a convent where nuns passed betwee... https://www.instagram.com/p/C1V-HyPNHqr/?img_index=1
Hotel Convento Santa Catalina by AHS, Antigua — Historic Stay Beside the Arch
Costa Rica
Family-friendly hotels and stays across Costa Rica, from jungle lodges to beachside escapes, where wildlife and adventure are always just outside your door.
We stayed here March 2022 and loved how easy and kid-friendly it was. The boys could roll out of bed, grab eggs and toast for breakfast, and hop straight into the pool before the day even began. Location was perfect — just minutes from Playa Espadill... https://www.instagram.com/p/Cb36_S6Az-Y/?img_index=1
Hotel Serenity, Manuel Antonio (Quepos) — Poolside Fun & Wildlife Nearby
Mexico
A mix of beach resorts, city hotels, and hidden gems across Mexico — family-friendly, quirky, and always full of stories.
We stayed here Feb 2023, in a hotel with some serious stories. Once the home of famous actor Mario Moreno, it’s now rumored to be haunted — and honestly, walking the hallways with just your phone flashlight made it feel legit creepy. No frills here (... https://posadalaermita.hotelsanmigueldeallende.net/en/
Hotel Posada la Ermita, San Miguel de Allende — Haunted History & Steep Streets
We hadn’t even planned to stay here… but Guanajuato changed our minds. Originally the plan was just to pop in for a look before heading to Guadalajara. But once we saw the skyline — a rainbow of colorful houses nestled in a valley of the Sierra Madre... https://apartamentossuites.hotelguanajuato.net/
Apartamentos Suites Guanajuato — Color, Character & Mountain Charm
This was a hubby-and-I getaway in Feb 2023, and it felt like the perfect little retreat. Tucked up in the hills just behind the church, the BellView only has six rooms total, which made it intimate and private. The room was pitch black and wonderfull... https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ0vqeWgwON/?img_index=1
BellView Hotel Boutique, Puerto Vallarta — Quiet Hilltop Hideaway
We rarely do all-inclusives, but this surprise pick (thanks, Ramone!) ended up being such a fun change of pace. We arrived just after 7 pm — too dark to see much — but the kids were instantly stoked when we checked in. Our room had a bathtub (a luxur... https://www.instagram.com/p/CmVctafOvMd/?img_index=1
Grand Oasis Palm, Cancún — All-Inclusive Family Fun
We stayed here Dec 2024 for a few nights during a quick Guadalajara road trip. The hotel itself was comfortable and convenient, with a pool (though too cold to swim in much 🤣). Dinner at PF Chang’s nearby was a big hit, and the location worked well ...https://www.instagram.com/p/CnBO1GruHCD/?img_index=1
Hotel Malibu, Zapopan (Guadalajara) — City Break with Pool & Easy Dining
We stayed here in July 2022 as part of the first leg of our summer trip, which started by returning the rental car we’d been using for the past year. After a McDonald’s breakfast in Guadalajara, we took a new route to Querétaro — more scenic than exp... https://www.instagram.com/p/CuigrwONs1B/?img_index=1
One Querétaro Aeropuerto — Convenient Overnight Before Monterrey
This was a special mom + son trip in May 2024 for Hendrix’s 6th grade graduation, joined by classmates and families. After a long drive (with a nostalgic breakfast stop at the same rancho where we once had milk straight from the cow), we arrived at S... https://www.instagram.com/p/C7qUfhKAr6s/?img_index=1
Sierra Lago Resort & Spa, Mascota — 6th Grade Graduation Trip in the Mountains
After a travel marathon (Puerto Vallarta → Tijuana → Cabo), every bit of fatigue vanished the moment we pulled up to Garza Blanca. Champagne on arrival set the tone 🥂, and the kids were over the moon about 24-hour all-inclusive room service — basica... https://www.instagram.com/p/DBp8OHgRsKV/?img_index=1
Garza Blanca Resort & Spa, Cabo San Lucas — All-Inclusive Luxury with Kids in Tow
We wrapped up 2024 with a quick weekend getaway to Guadalajara, determined to soak up the last of the Christmas magic (even if the boys rolled their eyes at my enthusiasm 🤣). The drive was easy thanks to the new highway — such a pretty route with en... https://www.instagram.com/p/DEJkxeQOxb4/?img_index=1
Sleep Inn Guadalajara Galerías — Festive Year-End City Break
Colombia
From vibrant cities to mountain escapes, our Colombia stays blended convenience, comfort, and a taste of local hospitality.
We landed in Medellín after a long travel day (Panama City → Bogotá → Medellín), so it was a relief to arrive at Hotel Greenview and find an on-site restaurant. Nothing fancy, but after hours of flights and transfers, having food right there and a co... https://www.instagram.com/p/ChlLSLdg8V8/?img_index=1
Hotel Greenview Medellín — Simple Stay in the City of Eternal Spring
Panama
Practical stays in Panama City that worked for our family — easy connections, city views, and comfortable bases between flights.
We stayed here at the start of our Panama/Colombia trip. First impression? It felt strange using US dollars again. The only real goal on day one was Wendy’s — mission accomplished. After lunch and a little mall wandering, we were all so wiped out tha... https://www.instagram.com/p/ChSBlhPuWVc/?img_index=1
Best Western Plus Panama Zen Hotel — City Views & Family Rest Stop
Brazil
From Copacabana’s iconic beachfront to city neighborhoods full of rhythm and history, our Brazil stays mixed convenience, culture, and family adventure.
We landed in Rio at 6:30 am after back-to-back overnight flights, so having pre-arranged transport to the hotel was a lifesaver. CLH Suites is set in the Copacabana neighborhood, just blocks from the beach. Rooms were basic but comfortable, and the f... https://www.instagram.com/p/Cqtv-vmOUbA/?img_index=1
CLH Suites Domingos Ferreira, Rio de Janeiro — Copacabana Base with Local Vibes
Peru
From Cusco’s high-altitude charm to Machu Picchu’s gateway town, our Peru stays were all about balancing comfort, history, and adventure with family travel in the Andes.
After leaving Cusco, we took the Inca Rail train to Aguas Calientes (aka Machu Picchu Pueblo) and checked into Hotel Taypikala — our base for exploring the wonder of Machu Picchu. At 2,040m above sea level, the lower elevation was a relief after the ... https://www.instagram.com/p/CrCkArptiWT/?img_index=1
Hotel Taypikala, Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) — Gateway Stay with Hot Springs Nearby
After a quick overnight in Lima, we flew into Cusco and checked into Home Garden Hotel — our cozy, family-friendly base at 3,400m. The altitude hit hard, so this stop was all about acclimatizing: plenty of water, light walking, and resisting the urge... https://www.instagram.com/p/Cq9SQ-wOZgD/?img_index=1
Home Garden Hotel, Cusco — Cozy Base for Acclimatizing at 3,400m
We spent one night here in March 2022 as a quick stopover before flying to Cusco. From the outside it didn’t look like much, but inside it was a cute little hostel with friendly staff. The rooms were simple but clean, and breakfast was even brought t...
Taytaypa Rooms & Apartments, Lima Airport — Quick Stopover Before Cusco
Japan
From bullet train stopovers to kid-friendly city bases, our Japan hotels were all about convenience, culture, and catching a little rest between adventures.
We arrived in Fuji by bullet train under misty skies that quickly turned to full-on rain — and Mount Fuji never made an appearance. Instead of chasing views, we leaned into a slower day: some shopping, good food, and a visit to a quiet local temple. ... https://www.instagram.com/p/DIywQKWyJc3/?img_index=1
Toyoko Inn Shin-fuji-eki Minami-guchi — Rainy-Day Reset in Fuji
After days of compact hotels, Kyoto welcomed us with our biggest room yet at RESI STAY Hotel Sun Chlorella — plenty of space to spread out and even our own washing machine (a huge victory after juggling shared laundry earlier in the trip). One of my ... https://www.instagram.com/p/DI1RFk7S5V3/?img_index=1
RESI STAY Hotel Sun Chlorella, Kyoto — Space to Breathe & Night Strolls
Honduras
From the laid-back beaches of Roatán to the cultural heart of the mainland, Honduras offers a mix of rustic charm, Caribbean flavor, and natural beauty. Expect simple, welcoming stays that put you close to turquoise waters, dive sites, and diverse co...
Dec 29, 2023 – Jan 3, 2024. Our five-night stay at Hotel Los Corales gave us a relaxed family base on the West End of Roatán. The location made it easy to explore, with plenty of nearby restaurant options — and the food scene blew us away (breakfast ... https://www.instagram.com/p/C1gN1zSN9SB/?img_index=1
Hotel Los Corales, Roatán — Family Beach Stay
El Salvador
Small but vibrant, El Salvador offers coastal towns, cultural traditions, and warm welcomes. From beachside stays to inland villages, the country’s charm lies in its authenticity — less touristy, more personal, and full of locals eager to share their...
Our one-night stay at Amaremar was short but sweet, set right along the beach. The vibe was simple and relaxed, giving us just what we needed before continuing our travels. Budget-friendly and practical, it worked well as a family stopover close to t... https://www.instagram.com/p/C5HpqF7ODPI/?img_index=1
Amaremar, San Luis Talpa — Rustic Beach Stopover
Nicaragua
Colonial charm, volcanic landscapes, and colorful cities define Nicaragua. From bustling plazas to lakeside escapes, our family stays here balanced comfort with cultural immersion, offering a slower, more authentic Central American rhythm.
Staying at Plaza Colón put us right in the heart of Granada, directly across from Parque Central. This colonial-style hotel had character in every detail, with balconies overlooking the lively square and an atmosphere that blended history with comfor... https://www.instagram.com/p/C5USBinOYdP/?img_index=1
Hotel Plaza Colón, Granada — Colonial Charm on the Square
Our final stop in Nicaragua was a practical one-night stay in the capital before flying back to Mexico. The DoubleTree offered exactly what we needed — comfy beds, reliable service, and the ease of being well-located for an overnight layover. Managua...https://www.instagram.com/p/C5XOFNjOX6J/?img_index=1
DoubleTree by Hilton, Managua — Overnight Convenience