The listing description for Minerva Ramirez's B&B was accurate, yet her lovely heritage casa offered so much more than I expected!

First, she went out of her way to ensure that I felt welcome - from the time I landed in Mexico City (dispatching her son Hector to receive me from the Bus Terminal) and greeting me warmly, at the gate (in spite of the ungodly early hour of my arrival)! The suite is large, and more like a bachelor apartment since it offers much space, a large flat screen TV, sofa, eating area and large, modern, lovely bathroom. A small fully equipped kitchen is 2 steps away, just outside off the courtyard, where I enjoyed making a good coffee each morning.

While staying with the Ramirez family I had to make a trip into the city to change my airline ticket. What could have been a dreadfully boring task, turned into a special outing, when Hector, an archeologist and history buff, regaled me with stories of Mexico's colourful history, as we drove. Turns out Hector is a highly qualified tour guide, and is available to add to your holiday by treating you on some personal historical tours to some sites, for a small fee. Just ask!

The location is exceptional. Directly across the street from the Casa Azul (the Frida Kahlo Museum) and just a few blocks away from the Museum of Popular Culture, Villa Conchita is situated in the heart of a gentle yet vibrant neighbourhood that holds a public market, a public garden/park, terrific shops and the best coffee place around. What more could you ask for?

All in all, Villa Conchita surpassed my expectations, and created the loveliest safe haven, nestled in a charming neighbourhood of Mexico City - Coyoacan- one where I will most definitely return to on my next trip to D.F.