Landing in a new city, especially after a long journey, can be overwhelming. But imagine arriving at a place that instantly feels like home, bathed in the warm glow of red fairy lights. This was our experience upon reaching the legendary Red Tree House Mexico City, a unique bed and breakfast that promises an unforgettable stay. After a lengthy trip from Sydney, the late-night taxi ride blurred into city streets until we arrived at a building distinguished by a vibrant red-lit tree – our destination, The Red Tree House.
We were greeted warmly at the gate and guided through the inviting common areas, past a charming patio garden, to our suite, the Lafayette. The welcome was seamless and relaxed, perfectly attuned to weary travelers. Formality was set aside, check-in postponed until morning – all that mattered after our journey was the spacious suite, its delightful décor, and the beckoning comfort of the bed.
Breakfast at The Red Tree House is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant social hub. Consistently booked, this expanded B&B, now encompassing neighboring properties and accommodating 50 guests in 25 rooms, buzzes with lively conversations each morning and during the evening happy hour. On our first morning, we had the pleasure of meeting Craig, one of the owners, alongside his partner, Jorge. Craig’s insightful suggestions shaped our first day exploring Mexico City. As the attentive staff, led by the talented Guille, served a multi-course breakfast, we eagerly planned our day. Breakfasts were consistently a highlight, starting with a continental spread of fresh fruit, breads, and cereals, followed by a daily-changing cooked option. Our introduction was Mollete – a toasted half bread roll topped with refried beans and melted cheese (ham for non-vegetarians). The star was a bowl of “piquant” salsa, which, to my delight, was perfectly spicy and generously applied. It was an excellent and flavorful start to each day.
Red Tree House at night in Mexico City, showcasing its charming red fairy lights
Following our hosts’ advice, our first day in Mexico City unfolded on foot. Arriving late after long travel has its advantages – exhaustion ensures a good night’s sleep, leaving you refreshed and ready to explore. Coupled with extensive walking, jet lag becomes a non-issue. From our cozy base in the upscale Condesa neighborhood, we ventured towards Bosque de Chapultepec, a sprawling 1,000-acre park at the city’s heart. More than just a park, it’s a cultural treasure trove, housing impressive and significant museums.
Our return to The Red Tree House brought the much-anticipated ‘happy hour,’ a generous and continuous flow of drinks courtesy of the attentive and charming staff. While the complimentary wine was enjoyable, the real pleasure was sharing stories with fellow travelers. This evening ritual became the perfect forum to recount daily adventures and exchange recommendations – “You absolutely have to see…”
Leaving the convivial sitting room and its welcoming fireplace, we sought dinner – late for us, but perfectly timed for locals. Craving proper food after meager airplane snacks, we discovered Lampuga Condesa just around the corner. Specializing in seafood, it also offered excellent vegetarian options. We enjoyed grilled teriyaki vegetables, grilled asparagus, and artichokes. The sautéed chillis were an adventure – potent enough to deter the faint-hearted, but manageable in smaller portions, adding a fiery kick to the meal. Despite the bustling atmosphere, the service was efficient, and live music provided a delightful end to the day.
Day two called for broader exploration, beginning with chilaquiles, a local breakfast specialty. Our vegetarian version featured an egg atop black beans, corn chips, and a flavorful, moderately spicy sauce. Savoury breakfasts are always a welcome treat when traveling.
Art was a major draw for us in Mexico, with Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo leading the charge. For visitors with limited time, choosing among Mexico City’s numerous museums and galleries is a challenge. Even a week felt insufficient, but we prioritized the key institutions dedicated to these iconic Mexican artists.
We quickly settled into the rhythm of life at The Red Tree House and exploring Mexico City. Each morning began with a unique breakfast (no repeats during our seven-day stay), followed by a day of planned exploration, always open to spontaneous detours. Evenings were anchored by the communal happy hour, and on quieter nights, we relished the company of Jorge and Craig over excellent Mexican tequila.
When planning trips, we always seek out special, independently run gems like The Red Tree House. The staff truly elevated our experience – from the cheerful breakfast crew to the drivers with excellent English, and the invaluable local advice from Alejandro, Christian, and Victor. Their collective warmth and expertise made our time unforgettable. The Red Tree House feels less like a workplace and more like staying with friends who genuinely enjoy your company. That is truly exceptional.
This inaugural visit to Mexico City, perfected by The Red Tree House team, ensures we will return. There’s no secret to keep – it’s a top recommendation in every reputable guidebook, and consistently ranks at the top on TripAdvisor. We feel fortunate to have found this place; its relaxed ambiance, distinctive art and décor, and friendly yet professional service create a unique experience unmatched elsewhere.
Explore More of Mexico City:
Part 1: Bosque de Chapultepec and its museums
Part 2: Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo
Part 3: San Angel to Coyoacan
Part 4: Centro Historico
Part 5: Teotihuacan
Discover The Red Tree House: Your Mexico City Home Away From Home
