I can't believe that no one has rated this hotel. I am a professional single woman and I love to travel. Unfortunately, it is often difficult for friends to have the time to travel with me. As a result, I am a true adventurer when finding new hotels and locations. So far, I have visited Ixtapa/Zihuatenejo only twice. The first time I stayed in Ixtapa based upon travel agent advice and didn't find it much to my personal liking. Although I love 5 star hotels, the concrete jungle of Ixtapa is overwhelming. However, Zihuatenejo is charming and beautiful. Finding a hotel can be difficult. I decided to try one of the Mexican chain hotels as the Americanized versions were all booked up. My selection was Sotavento. For four nights and five days I languished at this hotel, on my own. No discomfort whatsoever, it was low key, friendly and the service was very good. The room: I had already done my research so I knew this 4 star Mexican hotel would be built in the style of the country (brick/stone, with few elevators). It was clean albeit rather plain, yet the bedroom was large and the shower/bathroom roomy. Air-conditioning was available yet the ceiling fans and overhead ventilation (traditionally the area near to the ceilings is mesh and allows for easy air circulation) made the room comfortable for sleep. My patio - too large to call a patio - rather a veranda looked out at the sea and neighboring communities and vista. Breathtaking!! I had overhead shade as well as plenty of sunbathing area on loungers or a hammock if I chose. The food: First, breakfast is generally included and what a breakfast! You can choose a la carte or buffet, depending on the day and time (times are generous - 630-1030 I recall). The service: All staff are friendly and accommodating. When I had a small fit that my expedia booking was not showing fully paid at their end, they calmed me down, contacted expedia for me, gave me the contact number and permitted me to use their phone. They were right, only the first night was paid with expedia bookings. They were gracious throughout. Some cautions: I think there were about 9 flights of stairs, one elevator, so if you are not in good cardio shape, this might not be the best for you. However, you can also ask for a room at the lower level, and this would mean being able to walk down to beach level on a ramp like entrance. This hotel is very good value for the price! Not what we would call a 4 star, but if you are adaptable and not super picky, a good value.