Hacienda Del Lago Boutique Hotel

10/10

Exceptional

21 Apr 2026

Robin

We enjoyed the location for walking to places. The property is very pretty and our room had a nice lake view.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

15 Apr 2026

Jose

Great place peaceful and great staff

Pet

4/10

Poor

10 Apr 2026

Robert

We had one of the worst rooms we've ever stayed in. I\"m sure they must have had at least a few nicer rooms, but ours was atrocious. The shower had no hot water the first day and no hot water in the sink. The bed was old and not comfortable and it did not even have a chair to sit on. The grounds were lovely and the staff young and friendly but inexperienced. Our room ruined the whole stay.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

09 Apr 2026

Gary Edward

Parking is on a narrow cobblestone rd otherwise ok

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

23 Mar 2026

Paul

Nice quiet and peaceful place. I plan on returning.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

18 Mar 2026

Robert

Valeria was exceptionally helpful

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Mar 2026

joseph gerald

Yes was wonderful

10/10

Exceptional

27 Feb 2026

Vito

The courtyard is wonderful in the staff is excellent nice place. You will really enjoy your stay

4/10

Poor

25 Feb 2026

Keira

There were ants all over my room, if any water bottle set out they were all over it. No hot water in shower. Was a bit disappointed. Hot tub advertised but they charge to use it.

Self

8/10

Excellent

23 Feb 2026

Pockets

Great staff and the room was very clean

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

18 Feb 2026

Mark

Nice hotel...staff were great!

6/10

Pleasant

17 Feb 2026

Carrie

The staff was nice, the amenities were okay the pool was nice you had to pay an extra $5 an hour to sit in the jacuzzi which I didn't do I drove back but the water was rather dirty. Although the people we're very nice I have to give it a three.

Self

8/10

Excellent

16 Feb 2026

Harry

Had an overall positive environment with nice people and aesthetics.

8/10

Excellent

10 Feb 2026

James F

Clean. Staff was nice and helpful. Nice smaller boutique hotel. Easy to arrange transportation to/from the GDL airport.

Leisure Self

6/10

Pleasant

08 Feb 2026

robert

Staff courteous
No toilet paper in room
No clear info to log onto W9Fi

Leisure Partner

6/10

Pleasant

06 Feb 2026

Kathi

Grounds are beautiful. And breakfast delicious. Rooms are small and cramped. They made a big deal about using jacuzzi first they told me it was 50 pesos than they changed it to 100! Manager was scrolling
on his phone the whole time. It would be nice if he greeted the guests and maybe even provide suggestions about restaurants and attractions. And also make the guests feel welcome! Disappointed with experience.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

01 Feb 2026

Angeles

El personal muy amable, todo muy limpio y un ambiente seguro y confortable

Friends_and_family Friends

10/10

Exceptional

28 Jan 2026

Eric Wegner

Incredible service, great size rooms with all the amenities and the grounds outside were just amazing. The staff was attentive and very kind and whatever we asked, they made it happen! We’ll definitely be back. Thanks again for making our trip so magical!

10/10

Exceptional

26 Jan 2026

Luis Enrique

Excelente servicio y atención del personal, sus instalaciones están perfectas, supero mis expectativas.

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

24 Jan 2026

John Robert

The room was very clean but dated. No closet but rather shelves. TV was mounted on a second level (was a loft).
Bathroom tiles on vanity fell off on floor and left during stay piled on counter. Room not made up one day but told was because I did not inform front desk of departure (no one present).Would not stay again though everyone very pleasant. Many other choices in Ajijic.

Business_and_leisure Self

8/10

Excellent

23 Jan 2026

Chad

The grounds are beautiful, staff are friendly, and the pool is heated and delightful. It was great being only one block from the Malecon. Our room had a really nice view of the lake.

Leisure Family

4/10

Poor

22 Jan 2026

Janette

Extremely old and dirty shower room, the room was dirty and not well maintained. We stayed only a night there and when we told the front desk personnel about the issues I put room they weren’t very friendly, they didn’t give us option or do anything about it. I travel a lot, this is the first time I experience a service like that.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Jan 2026

gloria

The property was as good as it looks
Well taken care of and friendly staff
Would recommend

10/10

Exceptional

12 Jan 2026

Nayeli

Great location very clean. The staff is wonderful Joel the manager was always in the top of everything. Making sure our stay was pleasent. Gabyno and Carlos alwas ready to help. They make us feel like home. Chayito clean and refill the rooms that way we have everything we need at all times. THANK YOU!!

Business_and_leisure Pet

6/10

Pleasant

05 Jan 2026

Stephen

Stayed 9 days and we had two rooms party of 4. We are I our 50’s and 60’s if this helps.

Pros:Hacienda provides a nice quiet ambience. The rooms are clean and comfortable. Certain staff are very kind and provide great customer service.

Cons:
1- For a suite they do not provide any utensils so difficult to cook.
2- really push to eat at hotel but there menu is limited and there times fluctuate.
3- must pay to use the hot tub.
**4- have disclosed our age range and this one blows my mind away considering our May travels throughout Mexico. I can appreciate quiet time however 10pm the lights go out and you are told to go to your room. To sit have a glass of wine and play cards in the evening is impossible there is one staff in particular he literally watches you and pushes you and tells you to go to your rooms and shuts off the lights. Every night people were put off by this rule and all they tell you is when you check in you sign the agreement. Which for the record is a full page in tiny printing. Ironically there was festival happening for the week that had on going fireworks, flares, music blasted in the streets, parades at all hours. The kicker is this… if you want to go enjoy the festivities you must be back at the hotel by 9pm. You ring the doorbell and hopefully it’s answered. We asked the front desk about options and were advised after 10pm May not answer.
3-

However, be warned you must be in your room at 10pm and strictly enforced as they will turn the lights out.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

11 Dec 2025

Charles

A relaxing

10/10

Exceptional

10 Dec 2025

Devon Douglas

I had a great experience during my stay. The regular housekeeping kept everything clean and comfortable, and the views were absolutely beautiful — a perfect way to start and end each day. The overall atmosphere was welcoming and relaxing.

The staff were very friendly and always helpful whenever I needed anything. I truly enjoyed my time here and would definitely book again!

Tuve una muy buena experiencia durante mi estancia. El servicio de limpieza regular mantuvo todo limpio y cómodo, y las vistas eran absolutamente hermosas, perfectas para empezar y terminar el día. El ambiente en general era acogedor y relajante.

El personal fue muy amable y siempre estuvo dispuesto a ayudar con lo que necesitara. Realmente disfruté mi tiempo aquí y sin duda volvería a reservar.

6/10

Pleasant

01 Dec 2025

Connie

Hotel is overall lovely and quaint, grounds were beautiful. Restaurant has limited hours and menu…done serving at 3 pm. We were not prepared to be told we had to go to our room at 9 pm! Most staff were good but one gentleman who would tell us we had to go to our room at 9 pm one night, 9:30 one night and 1000pm another night we were a group ages 50-60. Most evenings no other guests were in the courtyard. He turned the tv and music off at 8:30. Was unapproachable and grumpy. If you want to go out in the evening and are coming back at 1000 pm or later you have to call to have someone open the door. We rushed back most evenings for fear of not being able to get into the property. They ask each day if want your room cleaned…we would have them clean it when we left the property for the day 4 times when we returned our door was unlocked!! Not acceptable
Unfortunately the attitude of this one staff member and the quiet time being 9 pm I would not rebook here

Leisure Friends

4/10

Poor

17 Nov 2025

Marta

The room was left unmade not cleaned no fresh towels … breakfast was slow .. very inconvenient that there was no hotel parking since the streets were very narrow and not well lit.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Nov 2025

Jennifer Marie

Great location close to lagoon.. Clean property and nice staff. Will definitely be back. Thank you 💫

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

13 Nov 2025

Barbara

Breakfast menu was a la carte with each item priced individually. The items were fresh and meals were evenly priced and not big

Self

10/10

Exceptional

09 Nov 2025

Leticia Elizabeth

Staff very friendly rooms clean

10/10

Exceptional

30 Oct 2025

James

Very clean and quiet. All staff very helpful. Really charming. The cafe serves a really damn fine cup o joe.

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

21 Oct 2025

Paula

The staff was great and the food was delicioso. The bed was too soft and the room could have been a little better maintained and cleaner. Our shower wouldn't drain so we got to stand in water.... but the location was great, right at the end of the Ajijic malecon.

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

20 Oct 2025

Roger

The room was poorly designed with a bath in the eating area and an upstairs bedroom with a very low ceiling only suitable for children luckily not needed and overall was in need of refurbishment. The room lock was difficult to use. There where no sun loungers in the sunny areas. On the last but one day, our room was not serviced and a free breakfast was offered but it was on the bill at check out but removed when mentioned.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

15 Oct 2025

Jerry

Outstanding staff! Very enjoyable stay, great service and wonderful courtyard to relax in.

Partner

4/10

Poor

03 Oct 2025

Gary

When we arrived, no one offered to take our luggage to the room. We had to lug them up a hill ,over grass, and up a ramp. The person who took us to the room, did not explain, the TV & AC remotes, the safe, the coffee maker, restaurant hours (we found out later no coffee served after 3 PM) ,etc. There was no toilet paper in the bath when we arrived. Maid service was spotty- out of 8 days,they came to clean on 5 of them. There was no currency exchange at the desk..There is no bar for mixed drinks. Although the grounds are very well cared for, the room was ill-maintained (see photos). Rusty garbage can, moldy tub, torn pillows, peeling paint,faded wall hangings,a rickety sofa -detract from the rooms appearance. The unusual key and door lock are problematic -even a staff member had problems unlocking our room.

Leisure Partner

2/10

Poor

17 Sep 2025

juan

Neglected and abandoned location.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

02 Sep 2025

bruno

Great place to stay at Ajijic

Place is worth every dollar. If you like a calm and relaxing place its gotta be here at Ajijic

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

27 Aug 2025

Bree

The staff was so kind and accommodating for any of our needs the property is absolutely beautiful. The pool isn't very big but it's so well kept and water was always clean and temperature just right.

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

26 Aug 2025

Judith

This property is located in walking distance of the main square of Ahihic as well as waterfront. It does offer breakfast and there is a Nepresso in the room. We stayed in a 2 queen bedroom which had a lot of room and a great view of Lake Chapala. If you are mobility challenged this may not be a good hotel for you as you take these garden paths which are very pretty to go to rooms and at night not lit really well. There is a beautiful pool and great gardens. The door to the hotel is locked and you press an intercom for front desk to let you in so secure. Staff is friendly but they do not all speak English but google translate worked fine. We had a real struggle with our hotel room door, trying to unlock and had to repeatedly go to front desk to have them help. They willingly did. Finally after several days we did figure out how to open after a couple of tries (a funky key lock). The place is decorated well and is very peaceful.. Not a lot of noise.

Leisure Friends

6/10

Pleasant

22 Aug 2025

Alia

Need New beds.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

07 Aug 2025

Trevor

Lake is 20 yards away. Lots of shops open late night a block or two away. Attentive staff.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

06 Aug 2025

Fernando

Parking did not see

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

06 Aug 2025

Mark

Excellent

Beautiful hotel in beautiful surroundings.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

31 Jul 2025

Hugo

Beautiful hotel

Leisure

6/10

Pleasant

13 Jul 2025

Shannon

Under renovation. Pool and hot tub hours are limited.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 Jul 2025

JESUS ALFREDO

Buen lugar para descansar.

8/10

Excellent

26 Jun 2025

Isabel

TRANQUILITY

Great place if you want to get away from the city. Very peaceful and best of all a heated pool. A block and a half from the boardwalk. The only thing I would suggest would be that they dust more often. The lamps were very dusty and you know what they say, 90% of dust comes from the skin. But overall very nice gardens and the people are great and friendly.

Friends_and_family Friends

10/10

Exceptional

14 Jun 2025

Roger Michael

Our room was upgraded because of ongoing remodeling. We were treated very well by staff. We will definitely be returning!

Business_and_leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

01 Apr 2025

Julio Alfonso

Great stay. Location is good, very close to the Chapala lake and with some eating options around the area within walking distance. Staff was great, very friendly!. The hotel was very clean and the pool and garden areas very well maintained. We had breakfast and it was delicious and affordable. The only inconvenient I had was that the coffee machine inside the room didn't work, but I reported it at check-out and I saw that they quickly addressed the issue, so hopefully the next guests won't have the same problem. Overall it was very pleasant and will definitely consider it for a next trip! Recommended!

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

29 Mar 2025

Christopher

An elegant hotel with fine staff

10/10

Exceptional

28 Mar 2025

janis

The pool was a bit too warm. All was beautiful.

Business_and_leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

24 Mar 2025

Edward

Excellent services and very well maintained property.

10/10

Exceptional

22 Mar 2025

Ashley Allison

I really enjoyed my week stay there. They made me feel right at home.

10/10

Exceptional

11 Mar 2025

Andrew

Very nice hotel in a lovely town close to the Malecón.

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

10 Mar 2025

Andrew

Pretty property

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

08 Mar 2025

Louis

Very quiet and acceptable with a caring staff. The service (we had breakfast daily) was a bit slow…..but acceptable

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

02 Mar 2025

Blair

My partner and I had a wonderful time at Hacienda del Lago. The staff were very helpful and friendly, the hotel itself a serene oasis in a very picturesque town. The pool was so warm! The bed was comfortable and the nights were quiet (except for the far-off crowing of roosters!).

Leisure Partner

6/10

Pleasant

03 Feb 2025

Jan

The property is well situated for access to central Ajijic, either walking or driving. Its older, so some things dont work - my bedside lamp had no power & the building lost power my last day. The little mini fridge gave me a shock if i touched it on the body (but not the door).

The staff were awesome. I wanted water in a pitcher instead of plastic bottles & they obliged me every day. Also ice, which i guess isn't automatic in Mexico.

Overall, property 3; staff 5, lication 5 since it is further out than other central hotels.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

25 Jan 2025

Ronda

The property feels like an oasis- quiet, beautiful, peaceful, a lovely and comfortable room. The staff were welcoming and helpful, the food delicious. All of this just a short walk to the plaza and malecon!

Business_and_leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

29 Nov 2024

Cassidee

Incredibly charming little hotel. Feels more like a bed and breakfast. The staff are so friendly. A block from the boardwalk/park for a peaceful walk by the lake. The area is very walkable and there are lots of dining and bar options. We will definitely stay here when we return. Ajijic is a magical place tucked away in a mountain valley. Worth the trip for sure!

10/10

Exceptional

16 Nov 2024

Catherine

My boyfriend & I had a lovely stay at Hacienda Del Lago. The staff is very friendly and helpful and the property is beautiful & serene. We would stay here again.

8/10

Excellent

15 Nov 2024

JEFF

Wonderful visit, great staff (Blanca at front desk was especially helpful). Only issue was poor WiFi in spite of the fact we were told it was brand new. Still, I would be happy to return

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

12 Nov 2024

Michael

Nice quiet stay. Very nice property. Everyone is knowledgeable and friendly. Walking distance to Malecon and central area.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

14 Sep 2024

Leticia

Mágico lugar

Todo super mágico, el servicio de lo mejor, super limpio, mucha vegetación alrededor, la comida del restaurante exquisito
Todo fue muy único

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 Sep 2024

Peter

This is a great place to stay if you want to relax in a small town. Lake Chapala is beautiful.

Leisure Partner

6/10

Pleasant

04 Aug 2024

Javier

No Ac and hot water

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

13 Jul 2024

Isabel

Our stay was excellent. The staff were very kind and helpful and catered to our every need. The grounds were well kept and very peaceful. No buses or loud traffic down the street. The only thing you heard in the mornings were birds singing. The pool was very, inviting when getting up in the morning, always nice and warm . Definitely will recommend this hotel..

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 Mar 2024

Raul

Cozy

10/10

Exceptional

18 Feb 2024

German

Great place with great staff. The first day we had no hot water, but we were promptly assigned to another room. Beware that Hacienda del Lago is not an hacienda and it is not on the lake. It is house in the town one block off the lake, and you can peek to the lake only from the corridor that access the few rooms on second floor.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

15 Feb 2024

Victor

A wonderful stay.

I recently had the pleasure of staying at La hacienda Del lago hotels during a weekend getaway, and I must say it exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the warm welcome and exceptional service provided by the staff.

The room was immaculate and exuded a sense of luxury and comfort. The attention to detail in the room's design and amenities truly made my stay memorable. The bed was exceptionally comfortable, and the view from the room was breathtaking.

The hotel's facilities were outstanding. I particularly enjoyed The pool area was a relaxing oasis, and I appreciated the opportunity to unwind and soak up the sun.

The hotel's central location made it convenient to explore the city's attractions and dining options. Additionally, the concierge provided excellent recommendations for local restaurants and helped arrange transportation for sightseeing tours.

I must commend the staff for their exceptional service throughout my stay. Every team member I encountered was friendly, attentive, and went out of their way to ensure that I had a memorable experience. Special thanks to the chef for their outstanding hospitality and personalized care.

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

11 Feb 2024

Marco

Overall the room we stayed in needs more upkeep, like faucet fixtures, furniture upgraded lighting.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

26 Dec 2023

Raul

Great hotel to stay at!!!! Bar none

10/10

Exceptional

25 Nov 2023

Roger Michael

The property was very relaxing and tranquil but very conveniently located near the Malecon,restaurants and shops. We were very impressed with the staff and service. Will definitely be returning on our next stay in Ajijic!

Business_and_leisure Partner

4/10

Poor

21 Sep 2023

Betsy

Staff unhelpful, old food. I got sick after I ate there.

10/10

Exceptional

20 Jun 2023

Nancy

Peaceful and quiet. Good breakfasts and very nice staff.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

14 Jun 2023

Sandra

The staff service was very friendly and helpful and the place very beautiful

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

24 Dec 2021

Verified traveler

Comfy stay

Service was excellent, food was delicious. Location is convenient, walkable and close to the lake. Garden and amenities are very well kept.

Friends_and_family Friends

10/10

Exceptional

31 Jul 2021

Verified traveler

The hotel was close to all the restaurants and shopping that Ajijic centro village has to offer. And the staff was excellent at welcoming us back after a day on the town with refreshments from the bar and delicious food from the restaurant. We also loved being a minutes walk to the beautiful malecón and lake Chapala.

Business_and_leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

20 Jun 2021

Verified traveler

Whatever I required they were there immediately- couldn’t have been more helpful and kind

Business_and_leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

23 May 2021

michael t.

Will Come Back

Staff, especially Diego and Carmen, were wonderful. The room was comfortable and beds were too. Room service and restaurant had limited selections but the town center was a kilometer walk along the lakeside

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

20 May 2021

Mike

Pleasant and relaxing hotel

Very nice room, not luxurious but very nice. The staff accommodates English language speakers. Bed is great and staff will bring anything you request. I found Diego, the manager to be extremely helpful

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

14 Mar 2021

Verified traveler

You will be very happy at the Hacienda del Lago Boutique Hotel. What an outstanding property! The grounds are so lovely and it's just a block from the lake. We stayed in the Amanecer room and were delighted. Super clean, very comfortable beds, lake views, plenty of amenities. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful. They went above and beyond to accommodate us. Be sure and eat at the restaurant too, the food is truly fantastic! Best Sangria I have ever had. A perfect stay in every way. Looking forward to coming back next time I am in Ajijic. Highly recommend!

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

15 Mar 2020

Janet

Small and quaint. Close to Malecon.
Could use alittle upgrade.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

20 Feb 2020

RICHARD

Charming small boutique hotel close to the Malecon

Overall a great place for a break and to explore Ajijic. Great staff and service. An older in-town facility with considerable differences between the rooms and amentities (sizes, a/c, cable TV service, etc.). Smaller bar and restaurant with ample offerings. Great location and remarkably quiet despite the in-town neighborhood setting.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

12 Feb 2020

Annie

Great food, confortable bed, very clean, friendly staff. Yes we will be back.

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

24 Jan 2020

Verified traveler

decent place

Breakfast is fruit, bread/jelly and coffee. Omelet can be ordered for a nominal fee.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

20 Jan 2020

Verified traveler

The time to check out isn't good. Bathroom is the Best

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

30 Dec 2019

Valerie

Great place and location!

Overall we had a great stay and the personnel was really professional. The only thing to improve will be the free breakfast which does not wow you. Amazing location for an early morning walk by the Malecon where you can enjoy bird watching to its best!

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

18 Dec 2019

Steve

Great staff.. made us feel welcome.
Permitted us to stay in our room a couple of hours past check out due to later flight.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

14 Nov 2019

Thomas

Pleasant Surprise.

This was a pleasant surprise.. Very nice property... Been coming to Ajijic for 12 years and stay at different places.. Will come back and stay here.The price was great and the food terrific and the staff very friendly and nice... Only was NOT air conditioned.. One may not necessarily have to have it but being Houston,, it is a must.. but I think we would stay here again.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

22 Jan 2019

Verified traveler

Very nice staff and facility. Restaurant was very good with excellent service. Beautiful grounds and location very convenient to what goes on in Ajijic.

10/10

Exceptional

11 Jan 2019

Jed

Recommended

Excellent accommodation, great setting and fabulous service

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 Jan 2019

Kristin

Definitely recommend!

What a lovely little boutique hotel! So cute and quiet with the softest beds! The on-site restaurant is excellent and reasonably priced!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

09 Oct 2018

PB

Great place to relax and be pampered! David and Carolina are wonderful and take care of your every need. We had our morning cappuccino outside our room door in hitel provided robes. David refreshed our cappuccino bringing foamed milk. The salads for lunch are varied and beautifully prepared. We could only stay teo nights, but had time.to walk the malecon and the streets of Ajijic. We also enjoyed a late night cocktail with the hotel owner tending the bar. Great conversation with him. He also took us to the airport early the next day. We will return!

10/10

Exceptional

21 Aug 2018

Alex

From beginning to the end super nice experience. Peaceful, relaxing, awesome service,food delicious..... too much to list

10/10

Exceptional

20 May 2018

Ruth

delightful - more like a deluxe B&B. Staff was wonderfully attentive, location great and weather fabulous - 60's in the a.m. and 80's in the p.m. - heaven for someone who lives in AZ. Highly recommend a stay at Hacienda del Lago in Ajijic.

8/10

Excellent

13 Apr 2018

Verified traveler

Wonderful people charming place the staff was terrific the food was very good great place to walk around

2/10

Poor

07 Jan 2018

fedora

horrible place

i called before i made the reservation to make sure the room was for 4 adults, and the hotel had parking
they said yes. unfortunately I prepaid in orbitz, great mistake so i had to stay there. room for 2 is ok but for 4, was a joke. room is in a garden, like a fishbowl, has clunky old spfa bed that my 2 adult son and daughter had to sleep there, was the worst night of my life.
they said they had parking and lied again, parking in the street, and they stole my rear view mirrors, overall a nightmare will never recommend or stay there, place may look nice but rooms are a big lie.