Shortly after initial blog posting we were directed to our room; access is via a sweeping grand staircase of marble - quite lovely. The room is smaller than appears online (fancy that) but very charming with amazingly high ceilings and a window looking out over the courtyard. To open the window we operate a large hand crank and then slide the enormous shutters to the side...very interesting. There is a wet bar (I have instructed Bridget to ignore it; we'll buy juice for our fridge.) satellite tv, high speed, and an electronic mosquito repeller gadget...had to get the housekeeper to explain that one. The bath is lovely (complete with bidet?); the entire hotel was recently renovated. We settled in and then both took naps; Bridget is trying to wake as I type and we then intend to stroll "downtown" into the historic area before dark and sample some authentic foods. Not far from the hotel Daniel (taxi driver) pointed out a musicfest of sorts taking place today. Hopefully we'll get there while it is still going on.

More later...cannot upload any pics until I buy an adapter.