I think this hotel deserves a higher rating than the one it currently has. It's admittedly not overflowing with character but the accommodation is clean, comfortable and spacious. The staff are helpful and professional. The outstanding feature is the restaurant, with a buffet breakfast to last you until the evening. When it's time for dinner, you can do no better than return to the restaurant, with milanesa ranchera not to be missed. Don't be put off by the armed federales standing outside; any hazards that there may be in the city (and I didn't find any) are barred from the Impala.

Tampico is off the tourist beat but has the authentic character of a steamy tropical port. It was the setting for the start of "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre", so look out for the bronze statue of Humphrey Bogart!More