Anna and I just got back from a 10-day trip to Mexico City and Oaxaca, shooting a pilot for a new TV show. Anna filled you in on some behind the scenes goings-on last week. (The pilot will air later this year on W Network.)

On a trip like this, where I stay becomes exceedingly important.  Business travelers will know what I’m talking about.  Often tired and weary, your hotel room becomes your sanctuary.  I want it to be comfortable, safe and, if possible, luxurious. 

I seem much more willing to put up with less-than-stellar accommodations when vacationing.  No hot water? Haha, good story for when I get back home.  It’s all a big adventure, not to mention that I’m personally footing the bill. But when it comes to work lodgings, I mean business. 

While shooting in the province of Oaxaca, we spent some of our time at a small hotel about 20 minutes outside of Oaxaca city.  Hotel Cosijo in Tlacochahuaya (I can’t even say that one time slow) is definitely off the beaten path. 

On the quiet street in front of Hotel Cosijo

When we rolled into town past midnight to check in, we didn’t see a soul, not even a stray pero (dog) roaming the streets.  So if you want to be in the middle of the action, surrounded by restaurants and shops, this is not the place for you.

Cosijo is set behind high terracotta walls and has the aura of a sanctuary.  Each of the property’s 10 rooms has a private patio area. 

My room with private patio

The rooms themselves are clean and spacious with modern furnishings, some of which are made locally. I loved the throw rug at the foot of my bed and I’m thinking of ordering one for home.

The property also has a small swimming pool and a nicely appointed yoga studio (see photo at top). 

Breakfast is included in your stay and the staff will prepare dinner if you ask for it ahead of time.  The food is mainly vegetarian, light, and quite delicious, a welcome reprieve from the tacos and heavy moles I’d been having elsewhere.  (Though the male members of our crew may beg to differ.)

Dining area. (The water-filled bags are supposed to repel bugs.)

The staff is sweet and helpful. After we checked out, I realized I may have left my watch in the room safe.  I emailed the hotel as soon as I could and sure enough, they found it and are shipping it to me.

The view into my private patio from my room

I could see coming here with a few girlfriends and exploring bustling Oaxaca city by day, and returning to this oasis in the afternoon for some yoga, sunbathing and wine in the afternoons and evenings.  If quiet is what you seek, this is a welcome reprieve from the usual, Mexican all-inclusive resort. 

My room