The Parador del Dominico is a long standing feature on central Oaxaca's lodging lists, and has always been a very welcome one. It isn't an old building, although it has been built in the traditional courtyard style with a simple exterior.

The attractions for us lie in the simple, clean and unfussy lines that harmonize old and new. Traditional materials of stone and tile are tastefully mixed with modern furniture and even halogen lighting in the dining room. Mexican colors and fabrics dominate throughout.

The best rooms are those at the back of the hotel, looking out onto a sunny atrium. Those on the ground floor even have a little patio. Other rooms have no views, a common feature of downtown hotels, but they are still charming and have all the modern facilities that you probably won't find in the older accommodations. These include satellite TV, minibar and phone, together with a hook-up for fax or PC. We particularly liked this!

Parador del Dominico is about 7 blocks from the zocalo and only about 4 from the Santa Domingo Church. We've walked to everywhere in town from here (except for a late-night taxi home on occasion) and once you've seen Oaxaca's pretty streets you'll know why. Strolling is the best way to take in the charms of the city, from its countless churches, artisans' shops - even grocery shops and doctors' surgeries are mesmerizing here.

We were looking for good value accommodation in keeping with Oaxaca's character, and we liked Parador del Dominico as soon as we walked in - we think you will too.