Sofitel Mexico City Reforma

The towering facade of the Sofitel Mexico City Reforma clearly illustrates the contrast between the reverent preservation of the old and the anxious embrace of the new in Mexico’s capital

- Celia Almeida

While the property’s base retains the structure of the 1930s home that once stood in its spot on the historic Paseo de la Reforma, today its interior is home to Freehouse, an intimate bar that stays open past midnight for guest nightcaps. Hovering above the second-floor speakeasy are 40 stories of polished blue-green glass. One of the tallest buildings in the city, the Sofitel makes its presence known long before guests walk through its antique entrance. It is attention-grabbing, but on my way to the hotel, another nearby landmark catches my eye.

El Ángel, the prodigious Angel of Independence that towers above the world-famous Reforma thoroughfare, is the first chill-inducing confirmation that I’ve finally made it to one of the greatest cities in the world. At the front desk, I’m surprised to be greeted not as “señora” or “señorita,” but as “madame.” I remember this is the first Mexico property for the French luxury Sofitel brand—an indication of Mexico City’s increasing appeal to outside companies, entrepreneurs and business travelers.

Freelance digital nomads and wealthy executives alike have descended upon the city since the onset of the pandemic (as evidenced by the handful of helipads visible from my suite).