Description
This extravagant 19th century house used to be the oft-named pop boutique hotel Boquitas Pintadas, one of the first design hotels in Buenos Aires and host to many artistic figures that made appearances at its bar. It has been recently refurbished with a minimalist twist and named after a song by Kurt Weill (1900-1950), a Jewish composer from Germany, who's melancholic tango references a journey to a hidden paradise at the end of the world.
Youkali Hotel has only 5 rooms, each named after a famous glacier. There is also a mini-outdoor pool and a restaurant on the ground floor that was designed to resemble a Berliner butcher shop. The restaurant became a favourite hang out for underground artists some years ago. A city-wide crack down on live performance means the scene is a bit more low-key these days. The hotel is located in the centric neighborhood of Monserrat, just a few blocks from San Telmo (the historical bohemian neighborhood of the city).
Insider Tips
The folks at Youkali provide great insider tips about where to hang out from alternative options to more traditional ones.
Be sure to ask for an ensuite room so you don't have to walk along the hall to get to the bathroom.
At Happy Hour the restaurant offers frozen drinks, brezen, home made beer, German appetizers and breads.
Benefits
Bathrooms are spacious and originally decorated (all with bathtubs)
The hotel offers pre-arranged transfer (at reasonable fares) from the airport.
Located near important historical buildings and the neighborhood of San Telmo
Drawbacks
Although the hotel is well located in proximity to interesting sites it is not a touristy area. The surrounding neighborhood is a bit rough and can be dangerous at night.
Rooms
All 5 rooms are uniquely decorated with a minimalist touch. Most are ensuite with large bathrooms and have queen size beds. Although the mattresses are not light and fluffy, they will get you through the night. Decor is pretty bare, but nevertheless it achieves an inspired atmosphere. All rooms have cable TV, wireless Internet, laundry service and room service. The suite includes a small living room, with a couch, coffee table, DVD & MP3 player.
Food
A continental breakfast is served at the hotel’s restaurant on the ground floor. It includes an assortment of local pastries (watch for the famous “medialunas”, which resemble french croissants), jam, cheese, orange juice and coffee/tea. The restaurant is located right on the corner and has generous windows allowing for great people-watching and catching a glimpse of the lifestyle of porteños from Monserrat. The restaurant also serves lunch and dinner throughout the day with a German-inspired menu.
Children
There is one room that is large enough to add an extra bed for those traveling with children.
