A stay at Motto by Hilton Cusco means exploring ancient culture, while enjoying one of the best and most colorful neighborhoods in the city: just ask General Manager Jose Pilares.
“Motto for me is more than a brand. It's part of our style of life,” said Pilares. “It's very fresh, it's a very modern. I love the hotels. I love being part of the process of the stay for our guests. I'm very happy if they feel happy.”
Pilares, who’s been in the hospitality industry for more than 20 years, is a walking encyclopedia of Cusco history. He can easily point out the details that show how Motto Cusco mixes “the modern and fresh” with Cusco’s uniquely historic culture, part of which is built into the hotel itself. During excavation to build the hotel, workers uncovered ruins from both the Kilke culture (900-1200 AD) and the Incas (1200-1533 AD) onsite. The ruins were preserved and the hotel built around them as a way to honor these two different periods in culture. According to Pilares, Cusco culture is also reflected in the hotel’s smaller details, down to the paint colors, railings, artwork, and even the locally inspired food and beverages at the hotel’s bar, The Dig.
Another element that makes Motto Cusco unique is its location, with the city’s most-visited attractions and landmarks, including the Plaza de Armas, the Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus, and Coricancha Incan Temple of the Sun, within a 10-minute walk. The streets around the hotel are also packed with cafes that dish up Peruvian cuisine and local artisans who sell handmade wares.
The team members who work at Motto Cusco love helping guests—especially first-time visitors—plan out their trip.
“During your first day, we recommend a short walk around in the city to see the closest highlights,” said Pilares, adding that the Motto Cusco team can help customize a visit no matter what a guest is looking for. “For the next days, we can help you to plan your tours: Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, or a city tour.”
