Just returned from Mazatlan where we stayed at the Posada Freeman in the Historic District. This hotel was reopened in 2002 and is a jewel of a place. It is close to downtown and away from the time share vendors usually found in the Zona Dorada. It is a quite and very private hotel with excellent staff service. The Sky Bar and the pool provide an incredible view of the Pacific.

Look forward to a return stay at this hotel.

We were not guests at the hotel but I had read about the roof top. We were staying in a time share in the golden zone. We went down town to check out the Freeman for the sunset The hotel and the resturant is very nice and clean. The people that work at the bar were great, we had drinks and watched the cruise ships leave port and the sunset. It has a spectacular view of Old Town the port and the ocean. I would recommend that every one go there for a drink, even if you don't stay there. I wish they would put a happy hour and serve dinner or lunch there in the afternoon and I would go there every night.

We stayed at the Posada Freeman for 5 nights, November 28 - December 3, 2005. We had originally planned to stay in the Golden Zone, Solamar Inn, on Sabalo, timeshare certificate for which we paid exchange fee $229, for one week. But, as soon as we arrived, Sunday, November 27, we were very disappointed - clean, but rundown kitchen/bathroom facilities, no drawers for clothing, one small closet, mini-ants. Nice pool and lobby area, though. The Minnesota Cafe was good for the meals we had there. Staff was very nice. Beach is not really visible except in hallways to rooms.
First night we walked to various hotels in the area and inquired about prices, ranging from (US)$70 to 140 a night. We were accosted by several timeshare vendors along the way (almost frightening).
The next day we took a pulmonia (open air taxi) and asked for a tour by driver (1.5 hours for $300 pesos) about $30 US (exchange about 10 pesos per dollar). (My husband and I both speak Spanish fluently). Jorge, took us all over the main spots to see and pointed out landmarks and told us about the Posada Freeman, and the better deals on this side of town. He dropped us off in the historical district, center of town - our original destination and we walked about, going down to the beach (Olas Altas) ending up at the Freeman.
We asked about availability and room rates and to see a room. As there appeared to be many vacant rooms at the time, I asked for a deal since we were staying 5 nights. Staff made a call and the rate went from $850 pesos to $700 pesos per night, including a full breakfast and light evening meal. Also cable tv and safe in every room. We moved to the Freeman on Tuesday morning. The facility was impeccable, lobby was lovely, staff members were efficient and kind, and always ready to help. We were within walking distance of the Plaza Machado, Angela Peralta theater, where we took in a concert. We walked to the town several times a day and night - the buildings are old and charming, many have been restored to their original majestic beauty. The art museum is directly behind the Freeman, and the museum of anthropology one block over. The cathedral and centro mercado are all within walking distance, and there are wonderful restaurants everywhere. Not one timeshare vendor in the area!
Every evening we sat on our balcony listening to the waves, watching the sea birds, seeing the fishing boats going out, and we were awarded awesome sunsets. Then we would walk into town for a meal in the plaza or to listen to the music at any one of the open air cafe restaurants. The hotel breakfasts were excellent, full-meals, variety of foods, and the coffee was very good! (Not always the case in Mexico.)
By the way, Panama Bakery, between Freeman and Machado is excellent!
So, we started out at loss with our timeshare certificate experience with $200 plus US down the drain. But, overall, because of the Freeman, our trip to Mazatlan was excellent and we are looking forward to returning in the not too distant future. Note: When we receive good service, we never tip less than 15 percent, usually 20 percent. We are remembered when we return and we usually get wonderful service everywhere. I saw people actually tip a few pesos when they should have tipped converting to dollars. (Tip rates are equal to those in US.) It was embarrassing to see - as they had been given very good service. Fellow travelers be generous or at least fair - you will be awarded!
By the way, the pictures used in the Best Western Freeman Posada site are real - you actually get what you see!

After staying at a place ran by a wacko, we moved to the Best Western Posada Freeman and our vacation started. The staff were wonderful. The bed is comfortable and view of the water and sunsets really spectacular. Away from the crowds of the gold zone and merchants coming up to you every moment to sell you something. Included in the price was a buffet breakfast and although I am not one for buffets, this was a treat. Everything was fresh and tasty. The best part was the pool up on the roof. Great views. Preferable to the typical ground pool but it was small and not deep. Good for jumping in and getting cooled off but not for the serious swimmer.