Libertador Arequipa

Arequipa is a cool, colonial-style town in southern Peru. It’s got a mellow atmosphere and is a good place to walk around, especially considering the attractive old buildings and culinary tradition for which the city is known. Another factoid about Arequipa: most of the city is constructed from sillar, a white volcanic stone that shines brilliantly in the sun. It’s quite different from other types of building materials. This is also a good city for outdoor enthusiasts, as there are volcanoes and some of the world’s deepest canyons nearby.

Hotel Libertador is the only five-star hotel in Arequipa. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas and is set within a quiet neighborhood. The hotel building was built during the 1940s and has been well maintained, giving the whole place an elegant and upscale feel.

The hotel’s 88 newly remodeled rooms are attractive and peaceful. They are decorated with dark wood furniture and red carpets. All have large private bathrooms with hot water showers and bathtubs. The rooms are equipped with 32” cable TVs, wireless Internet access, and iPod docking stations. The suites have a separate living room where guests can read and relax, as well as a mini-bar. All rooms are non-smoking.

When the temperature rises, guests can head to the hotel’s large outdoor pool to cool off. Sun chairs, gardens and a playground surround the pool. There is also a Jacuzzi where you can soak in warm water and unwind at the end of the day. If you feel like taking your relaxation to the next level, you can visit the sauna or arrange for a massage. The Libertador Arequipa also has a gym with modern exercise equipment where guests can work out.

As the evening approaches, guests can relax in the lounge with a cocktail. This is a spacious area that provides guests with a good place to read, chat, or use the Internet. Afterwards head over to the restaurant, Los Robles, for a bite to eat. The restaurant has a buffet breakfast from Monday to Friday (5 AM to 10:30 AM), and an international menu for lunch and dinner. The food here fuses regional specialties with European cuisine. Drinks, including the hotel’s famous Maracuya Sour, can be enjoyed at the Montonero Bar.

There is a new multi-purpose area that can be used for meetings, events, and conventions. It can host up to 900 people and also has ample parking. There is a business center with 24-hour Internet access, and Wi-Fi that’s offered throughout the hotel.