Given a guess, you'd probably never think that Maison Couturier, with its French name and 19th century history, is actually a hidden estate in Veracruz, Mexico. That is, until you see photos of the outdoor pool and grounds which are ever basked in the warmth of the sun. While inside you may enjoy a lovingly cooked meal or a quiet read in a rocking chair, outside you can swim in the stone pool and munch on freshly-picked fruit from the region. With such charm and detail, its no wonder that it was restored by the same guys who own the aforementioned Hotel Americano. What an eye they have, no? 
And what could be better than a three-day weekend spent with New York friends? Staying at the Hotel Americano while there. (Mind you, I'm not going to New York Saturday, but a tip for those on their way soon.) The newest shelter from Mexico's Grupo Habita (who created Hotel Basico and Distrito Capital), with its glass exterior, Japanese-designed furniture, industrial Chelsea locale and rooftop pool, is both a hip hub for locals and a destination for the jet-set. Sure this weekend is booked, but you can always pop in for a bite and the view. Meanwhile, I'll be keeping up through their blog, a refreshing glimpse into the neighborhood and the lives of its inhabitants.
