Spain 2010
Best and worst accommodations:
Best: Hotel America
Why: Location, location, location (on the grounds of the Alhambra), plus charming rooms, good value, and a friendly, super-helpful staff. Dining at the Parador next door is convenient, and the tapas bars along Calle Navas are a quick taxi ride away.
Worst: La Casa Grande in Arcos de la Frontera
Why: Although this hotel is appealing in many ways--its perch atop a ridge overlooking a verdant valley, the owners' sense of aesthetics (a glass of sherry to welcome guests, candles lighting the courtyard at night), the fold-out sofa bed in our family suite was infested with bedbugs or fleas, and my daughter was miserable for several days as a result of bites all over her back and shoulders. The owner was off site when we checked out, so I left him a note telling him about the bug bites. He responded with an e-mail about how he planned to address the problem, but he didn't offer to refund any portion of our room charge.
Nancy Zeilig in Denver, CO USA 11/14/2009
Worst: Hotel Maestranza Sevilla
Why: This hotel has a great location and very helpful staff. Rick claims that this is on a quiet street. It may be as far as limited traffic but there are tapas bars very close by that are noisy into the wee hours. Don't stay here if you want a good nights sleep.
gerrys in Milwaukee, WI USA 11/10/2009
Best: Hotel Anacapri in Granada
Why: Helpful. English. Well organized. Near everything. Speaks Iowan fluently.
Worst: Hotel Jardi In Baecelona
Why: Couldn't find my confirmed reservation. Changed offered price from $60 euros to $80 euros on confirmation email. Toilet didn't work, no water, even after he said he fixed it while I watched. WiFi had a 24 digit password that didn't work. Two flights of stairs to get to check in lobby before you get to elevator. I got my luggage back after arguing with check in guy and went 50 feet away to Hotel Atlas and checked in for 30 euros less at a modern professional 3 star hotel.
Gary Porter in Ann Arbor, MI USA 11/09/2009
Best: HOTEL CONTINENTAL RAMBLA, BARCELONA
Why: The hotel has been expanded and upgraded since our last visit four years ago. An additional floor has been added with a full twenty four hour food and beverage bar which includes beer, wine, soft drinks, coffee, snacks and hot items served cafeteria style. Although some rooms are a bit tight, the room with twin beds provides more space for the same price as a double room.
WILLIAM RODRIGUEZ in JACKSONVILLE, FL USA 11/05/2009
Best: Hotel Plaza Mayor - Madrid
Why: Excellent location near Plaza Mayor; rooms are big and very clean; staff very helpful. Nice street views from some rooms.
Esta in Sarasota, FL USA 11/02/2009
Best: King Luis XV in Madrid
Why: Friendly service, very clean, very safe and secure.
Worst: Casa del Sol Y Luna!!!!
Why: Dark, dirty, hot, smelly. We think that is where my daughter got multiple bug bites.
Marge Clark in Marion, Oh USA 11/02/2009
Worst:
Why:
Barb McKay in Denver, CO USA 11/02/2009
Best: All of the Paradores in Spain
Why: We stayed in several on our trip and found them to be in historic locations, clean and well maintained with very helpful staff members. The restaurants were also nice. You should talk about these more in your book, as they have great deals for seniors and for people staying in multiple Paradores for 5 or more nights.
Worst: Hotel Husa Los Seises in Sevilla
Why: The location was good, but the place was over-priced and not well maintained. The rooms were not clean and the matresses were old and sagging. We checked-out after one night. I would drop this from your list of recommended hotels on page 506. Thanks.
Ron Hendrick in Boulder, CO USA 11/01/2009
Best: Segovia: Hotel Santa Isabela
Why: We asked for a room overlooking the plaza and had one of the nicest rooms of our trip. Large room, tastefully decorated, large towels, and a fantastic view.
Sharon in Anaheim, CA United States 10/28/2009
Worst: Seville, Casa Soly Luna
Why: The price is right, but there is a new manager that isn't very cordial. The rooms are very dated, quite noisy and we found the hotel difficult to locate. We would not recommend this hotel.
Skeeter Kershaw in Portland, OR USA 10/26/2009
Worst: Grandada, Pension Landazuri
Why: When making reservations, we requested one of their renovated rooms. When we arrived, only a very well-worn room was available and it was pretty bad. Suggest you have someone look at them. We liked the location and their small resturant next door.
Kay Kershaw in Portland, OR USA 10/26/2009
Best: Hotel Continental Palacete
Why: We stayed here 11 days. Fantastic! Showing your Rick Steves Guide book gives a 5% discount. The staff was friendly and cooperative. They have a 24 X 7 food and drink bar. Actually real food plus three wines and beer. Ate both breakfast and a late lunch there each day then had a very good evening meal at a restaurant. There is a large room where you can just sit or enjoy your meals. Great time to meet and share stories with other travelers. Conveniently located two blocks from Placa de Catalunya in Eixample. The sun rooms are worth the extra expense. We would definitely stay there again.
Len Duffy in Towson, MD USA 10/17/2009
Best: YH Giralda, Sevilla
Why: Location, location, location...lovely room, friendly and helpful staff- walking distance to everything.
Worst: None
Why: Hostal Acapulco, Plaza Del Carmen in Madrid was also terrific, perfect location, free internet, 3 metro stops within five minute walk. Pensione Landazuri in Granada offers less but with love, joy and another great location plus a very low price.
George in Pittsburgh, PA USA 10/10/2009
Best: Cortijo Las Piletas near Ronda
Why: What a grea location for exploring Andulacia. This was a great break from city hotels and the innkeepers were there to pamper you. It was withing easy driving of Ronda, Arcos, Granada and Jerez.
Worst: None
Why: We enjoyed each place we stayed some had some really hard beds but such is life.
Hank Smalling in Aiken, SC USA 10/09/2009
Worst: Pamplona - Hotel Europa
Why: Not really a "worst" - just a note that the rooms facing the pedestrian street front are extremely noisy on the weekends, which may have been because it was the little San Fermin and everyone was apparently drinking until sunrise.
Liza in Hereford, AZ USA 10/08/2009
Best: Las Casas de la Juderia, Seville
Why: Very interesting and beautiful hotel. Centrally located by the Barrio Santa Cruz. Great breakfast and the staff were very kind.
Jean Brubeck in Santa Cruz, CA USA 10/06/2009
Worst: Hotel Catalonia Albinoni - Barcelona
Why: The room had a distinct odor from the plumbing system. When we asked the hotel attendant, he said they had no other roms available for 3. Some of the staff at the front desk was particularly discourteous. The hotel said they wouldn't charge us for breakfast because we showed them the Rick Steves' book but they charged us for breakfast for 1 of the 2 days we ate in the hotel. Although the location is good, there are many hotels in a Barcelona and we had an especially bad experience at this hotel that I felt the need to try to discourage others from staying here.
Seema Dekhtawala in Chicago, IL USA 09/25/2009
Best: Madrid - Hotel Europa
Why: Terrific, extremely helpful staff and a nice clean, quiet room with very comfortable beds, exactly like we reserved. Price and location make this place perfect! And the cafe downstairs can't be beat for fun staff, good food at reasonable prices...and the people watching is fantastic.
Bill in Miami, FL USA 09/22/2009
Best: Hotel Continential Barcelona
Why: I wouldn't exactly classify this hotel as "best," but it is more than adequate. The location is exceptional, right on Las Ramblas, right beside a metro stop and a very short walk from the airport bus stop. The staff was friendly and helpful. The hotel's free, all-day buffet was exactly what you would expect - nothing to write home about. But, then again, you don't pick a hotel for the free buffet. The room was basic but functional, and generally a good value for the money.
traveldorks OK USA 09/19/2009
Best: Hotel Europa Madrid
Why: Location
Worst: Hotel Ingleterra, Granada
Why: Security - theft occurred.
Mary in New Haven, CT USA 09/19/2009
Best: Hotel Dugues de Bergara, Madrid
Why: Incredible combination of centralmost location off of Placa de Catalunya and off Ramblas yet quiet and comfortable, accommodating hotel with wonderful pool in the middle of summer Barcelonian heat.
Mila Felder in Chicago, IL USA 08/20/2009
Best: Clara at Hostal Don Peque, Nerja; Javier at Hostal Gonzalo, Madrid
Why: Wonderful people, great hospitality, nice accomodations; Loved the location and views from Hostal Africa in Tarifa.
Worst: Josip from Hotel La Botica de Vejer
Why: OK'd accomodations verbally, then backed out (he must have had a better offer --- i.e. longer tenant);
Steve Richards, M.D. in Spokane, WA USA 08/17/2009
Best: Clara at Hostal Don Peque, Nerja; Javier at Hostal Gonzalo, Madrid
Why: Wonderful people, great hospitality, nice accomodations; Loved the location and views from Hostal Africa in Tarifa.
Worst: Josip from Hotel La Botica de Vejer
Why: OK'd accomodations verbally, then backed out (he must have had a better offer --- i.e. longer tenant);
Steve Richards, M.D. in Spokane, WA USA 08/17/2009
Best: Hosteria Grau
Why: Great air-conditioning and friendly front desk staff.
Kyla Gurganus in Ypsilanti, MI USA 08/11/2009
Best: HY Giralda in Seville
Why: Small, great location, wonderful staff, cheap $58 Euros a night for a double, air conditioned your own WC...great! Although make sure your cab driver knows where to go apparently there are 2 in the city and we had to call to find out which one to go too.
Worst: Hotel Imperio-Toledo
Why: No air conditioning...hotter than you can imagine in mid July...could not sleep..
Daphne Weaver in Bremerton, WA USA 08/03/2009
Best: also good was Hotel Plaza Mayor in Salamanca.
Why: Location so close to the Plaza Mayor. We had a balcony room overlooking the pedestrian street.
William Campbell in Ottawa, ON Canada 07/10/2009
Best: The Oasis Backpackers Hostel in Sevilla wasn't the best or the worst accommodation.
Why: The location was great and it was very clean but you could only turn on the air-conditioning at midnight and off at 8AM. We were there in June and it was 100+ degrees each day (very little air conditioning at most businesses). I would stay there again but not in the summer time.
We also vistied Santiago de Compostela and stayed at Hotel Residencia Costa Vella. Very nice rooms, beautiful views of the gardens and surrounding area. The staff was very friendly and helpful and the price was actually ok. Breakfast is included.
Monica in Chapel Hill, NC USA 07/03/2009
Best: Hotel Catalonia Albinoni
Why: Great service! Nice clean room, even though small (par for the course in Europe). Spoke excellent English. Just be warned, it is on a pedestrian street so you will be dropped off at the Placa de Catalunya so if you are disabled not sure how you'd get to the hotel with your luggage. Plus, don't bother buying breakfast. There are tons of places nearby to grab a coffee and roll, or go to the market and get juice and fruit. Breakfast here was very overpriced for the offerings.
Amy Teague in Fishers, IN USA 06/08/2009
Best: Hotel Maestranza in Sevilla
Why: Very friendly and helpful staff, nice functional room that rivalled any we stayed in Europe
Russ Lorber in Westminster, MD USA 06/06/2009
Best: Hostal Gonzalo
Why: I booked into Hostal Gonzalo during the week I was in Madrid (March 20-27). I was pleased. It was clean and quiet and the family which runs it was courteous and helpful. The WIFI worked well too. The Hostal is close to all the sights in the "museum" district. Thanks for the recommendation! It was worth the price of your guidebook to get a nice place to sleep.
Cliff Gilbert in Mount Laurel, NJ USA 03/31/2009
Worst: Hotel Las Conchas, Toledo
Why: We slept poorly because they overheat the place (mid-March). Other aspects of the hotel are fine.
Steve in Princeton, NJ USA 03/24/2009
Best: Hotel Preciados Madrid, Hotel Jazz Barcelona
Why: Both excellent hotels near Metro, restaurants and shopping. Jazz is not in Rick's book, but is one of our favorites. You can get on the Metro without crossing the street. Lovely rooftop pool, free internet, Quiet, clean and beautiful. Get coupons for free drinks at Cellar de Tapas from reception.
Worst: Hotel Alminar, Sevilla
Why: My Wife and I checked into The Alminar (page 506)and soon realized that it was the noisiest room we have ever booked. We could hear all manner of street noise and you had to slam our door to close it. We asked about a quieter room and were assured that all their rooms were the same and that "it is impossible to find a quiet room near the center of any large European city." We paid a cancellation fee of 120 Euros and rolled our bags half a block to The Hotel San Francisco (also page 506) where we got 3 nights of good sleep in a larger and much quieter interior room for 56 euros per night. The Alminar doesn't belong in Rick's wonderful book.
ED ERWIN in CORSICANA, TX USA 03/23/2009
Best: Granada Hostal Britz March 2009
Why: Book's descrition fit to the T, friendly, clean, economical and a little noisy, as all rooms face Plaza Nueva. The location is the most central for heading in any dirction.
Kathy Kirch in Cadillac, MI USA 03/20/2009
Best: Hostal Gonzalo in Madrid
Why: Price was right (55 euros for a double). The room had a hot shower with good pressure, great Wifi included, was central for walking, fine beds, and a good closet. I didn't think the Anton Martin metro stop was that far of a walk away, either. The night manager spoke very little English (we communicated, though!), but the day guy spoke good English. There was always someone there if we needed something.
Kyla Gurganus in Ypsilanti, MI USA 03/06/2009
Best: Hotel Amadeus, Sevilla
Why: Charming, clean, and well located. HOWEVER, I would definitely recommend NOT staying in the annex (Hotel La Musica), as it is on a very noisy corner and is very poorly soundproofed. It would have been nice if they used some of that soundproofing in the piano rooms for the guest rooms! I would recommend asking for a room on an inside courtyard. Also, they claim on their website that they can reserve you a parking place in a nearby garage for a special price and that is simply not true. There is a nearby garage, but there are no reservations or special prices possible. Also, the directions that they provide to get you to the hotel are awful. In fact, their address is a street that is too narrow to accommodate a car. Also, their receptionist at night speaks not a word of English, which wasn't very helpful when trying to figure out where the parking garage was!
Ava Nackman in Chapel Hill, NC USA 01/26/2009
Best: Hotel Anacapri in Seville
Why: Reasonably priced, beautiful lobby and breakfast room. FREE 10 euro breakfast with Rick Steves book and it was a bountiful breakfast! Helpful staff. Great location.
Arlyce in Stillwater, MN USA 01/16/2009
Best: Hotel Alcantara, Seville
Why: Excellent location, great service, and reasonable prices. Also, the breakfast for 5 euros was exactly how I wanted to start my mornings!
Worst: Hostal Residencia Neutral, Barcelona
Why: It was expensive for what we got, and the bathroom was way too small and made noises at night.
Jennifer Chen in Fremont, CA USA 01/03/2009
Best: Le Petit Hotel - Salamanca, Hotel Altair - Santiago
Why: Both places were just as described, and were little gems. Both offered good value and outstanding service/hospitality. Hortensia (Le Petit) and Begonia (Altair) were especially wonderful.
Worst: Hostal Buen Dormir in Sevilla
Why: Really, we have little reason to complain, since this was described as a bare-bones place. The owners were nice enough, but our room was very cold and helped my wife get pretty sick. Maybe the hostal is just a shade below the minimum one should consider?
Jon Strebler in Chula Vista, CA USA 01/03/2009
Best: Hotel Europa in Madrid
Why: The staff was very friendly and polite. The hotel location was very good. The hotel was also very clean and a good value. I would definitley stay there again.
Ben in Okie in Europe, Netherlands 12/30/2008
Best: Hotel San Gabriel, Ronda
Why: Charming, quiet, helpful staff
Worst:
Why: Hotel Regente in Madrid was in need of some renovation (hall carpet, bathroom grout, tired bedding)
C Rathfon in Oakland, CA USA 11/04/2008
Worst: Hostel Buen Dormir, Sevilla
Why: Where to begin?? The first night, we had no water in our sink, and a major leak on the floor. The second day, our water was scalding and the shower wouldn't work. We stayed for three days, and on NONE of the days did the room heater work. The room was clean and the location was good, but this accomodation really stressed us out in what should have been a relaxing city. I think this place doesn't deserve a Rick Steves endorsement. :(
Kristen in Portland, OR USA 11/03/2008
Best: Hostal Iturrienea Ostatua in Bilbao
Why: (The only hotel you recommended that we could get into this trip - most of the places we went your guide doesn't cover.) The staff was great, the location was perfect for us, and the accommodations were clean and a good value.
Richard Rowe USA 10/20/2008
Best: Hotel Europa Madrid
Why: Exactly like you described, squeeky clean, a tremendous value, great location. The staff was very helpful and nice. The wireless internet access was FREE. Would definately stay again.
Jean Boyd Williams in Raleigh, NC USA 10/18/2008
Best: Hotel Continental Barcelona
Why: The decor had my wife and I dubbing it the "Pink Palace", but the proximity to the heart of Barcelona along Las Ramblas was perfect.
Dave Matsumoto in Tacoma, WA USA 09/10/2008
Best: Hotel Puerta del Mar
Why: Great staff. Excellent location. Fabulous breakfast at sister hotel next door (Cavanna). Breakfast included the full "Brit" package ...even the beans! Beaches are fabulous.
Worst: Hotels, restaurants and admission fess
Why: Prices all over Spain are higher (even befroe conversion from euros to US dollars) than those listed in the 2008 guidebook
Tim English in Atlanta, GA USA 08/12/2008
Best: All of the ones we used.
Why: 1. Madrid-Hotel Regente-we stayed there on the first night of our trip and the last night. The second room in the renovated part of the hotel was very nice, with a side couch as well as the bed. We arrived in Madrid at 8am and they had our room ready early.
2. Seville- Hotel San Francisco- we had a beautiful rooftop suite. Very charming-we had a balcony right outside our room. Everything was very clean with pretty furniture. Great location to everything, yet on a quiet back street.
3. Tarifa-Hostal Alborada- one of the best. The brothers were super helpful as you mentioned in the book. The place was very clean and bright and we were regaled of stories about Steve!
4. Granada-Hotel Macia Plaza-great central location with a comfy room. Couldn't be in a better spot to walk to everything or take a quick bus.
Jennifer in Boston, MA USA 08/07/2008
Best: The Hotel Amadeus, in Sevilla.
Why: Cheerful, helpful staff, huge, beautifully decorated room, and lots of cozy places to hang out.
Worst: The Hotel Jardin
Why: Only because the room was so tiny you could hardly get around the bed. No place to open a suitcase. But it was clean and safe and the staff was also very friendly. It was only worst because the other places were so great.
Patti Hine in Yucca Valley, CA USA 08/05/2008
Best: Parador San Francisco, Granada
Why: beautiful setting within the Alhambra; could not be more convenient; great rooms and excellent service; we booked and pre-paid one year in advance; expensive, but we thought it was well worth the price.
Bob Lata in Paso Robles, CA USA 07/25/2008
Best: Hostel Alborado in Tarifa
Why: Great location, good price. When we arrived and inquired as to parking the person behind the desk insisted on moving his own car from right out in front to allow us to park there.
Lynn Cowhig in Snellville, GA USA 07/15/2008
Best: Hostal Gonzalo in Madrid. Also Hotel Ginebra in Barcelona.
Why: Javier was an excellent host. He even prepared our room by pushing two single beds together without even being asked. Nice air conditioning and clean, tidy rooms. In Barcelona, the Herrera family were great hosts. We enjoyed the balcony rooms on the Plaza de Catalunya.
Linda Cramb in Jaffrey, NH USA 07/08/2008
Best: Hotel Preciados-Madrid
Why: Great location-shops-sites and eats wise. Modern-large rooms and a great staff.
Mitch Heinemann in Frisco, TX USA 06/28/2008
Best: Hotel Santa Isabel in Toledo
Why: Very friendly and helpful desk staff. Excellent location and price. Very clean and safe.
Worst: Hostal Arias in Sevilla
Why: It was a negative experience for our family from begining to end. We re-confirmed all our reservations for Spain before leaving the USA. However, Hostal Arias was the only one that required re-confirmation thre days prior to arrival, which was a problem since at that point we were already travelling. On arrival, the receptionist (a lady) was very unfriendly. Another receptionist (a gentleman) rejected our request to change us from a room that reeked of cigarrette smoke while denying it, although all of us were smelling it. Then, in the middle of the second night, the staff at the front desk called one of our rooms regarding noise that was in fact originated outside our window on the floor level by people congregated on the street. Finally, a rushed checking out because the maids were waiting to clean the rooms with a remark to change our attitudes while travelling in Spain. All this despite having the advantage of speaking the language fluently. Overall, we do not think that this hostal merits to be in your guide.
Marcia, Jaime, and Two Children in Rochester, NY USA 06/07/2008
Best: Hotel Europa
Why: Location, location, location. Helpful management.
Ashwin Honkan in Pune, India 06/05/2008
Worst: Hotel Granvia
Why: This hotel is well located and the room quite decent but very, very noisy. I requested a quiet room overlooking the garden four months ahead and they emailed me back saying that would not be a problem and we would get a room on the back. Foolish me neglected to print that message so we arrive and get a room right on the front. First night we were so jetlagged we slept 12 hours. Second night we lost almost an entire night's sleep due to traffic that roared all night. The staff is very unfriendly and unaccommodating--they make it clear this is just a business.
Susan Jennings in Atlanta, Ga USA 05/31/2008
Best: Hotel Occidental Reding, Barcelona
Why: excellent location, friendly & helpful staff, good sized room....excellent!!
Lynda Wiseman in Langhorne, PA USA 05/27/2008
Worst: Hostal Neutral, Barcelona
Why: Dirty floor and bathroom tiles, no room service for our 3 day stay, crumbling grout in sink and shower, sagging mattresses. However, friendly and helpful front desk staff and good location.
Katherine Stokley in Seattle, WA USA 05/25/2008
Best: Toledo: Santa Isabel
Why: My wife, granddaughter and I just returned from a 9 day trip to Spain. One of our favorite towns to visit was Toledo, and the people at the Santa Isabel made it such a nice experience. The Isabel is spotless, staff is extremely helpful and polite, and it's in a great location. We walked to everything. It's located about two blocks from the Cathedral. We give the Isabel a 10 out of 10 rating.
Worst: Seville: Casa Sol y Luna
Why: I believe this place was not in Rick's book, but I thought I'd warn others anyway. Rude staff, smell of urine, cockroaches, cash only...need I go further. Others have similar reviews on other hotel rating sites.
Dale Peterson in Stillwater, MN USA 05/10/2008
Best: La Casa Grande, Arcos de la Frontera
Why: Quaint, quiet, beautiful, but get an upstairs room. The underground rooms smell dank.
Worst: Hotel Europa, Sevilla
Why: Smoky, dirty, expensive, and they did NOT honor the Rick Steves discount despite what the book says. I would encourage you to remove them from the book.
J.King in Berkeley, CA USA 05/04/2008
Best: El Convento, Arcos (Alavera do los Banos in Ronda good too)
Why: Friendly, clean, excellent value
Worst: Hostal Alborada
Why: Not the worst for the facility, but the staff lazy (did not provide help with even the smallest request), did not honor the Rick Steves discount, were not helpful or informative about the Morocco ferry booking service (did it for their cut but provided no info.). Should be taken out of the guidebook!
F. & C. Weiss in Victoria, BC Canada 05/03/2008
Best: Hostal Acapulco, Madrid
Why: It was the perfect location for a first-timer in Madrid. In addition, the price was right and safety was never a concern. I actually thought I got more than what I paid for.
Robert in Arlington, VA USA 04/18/2008
Best: Hotel Atlantico, Madrid
Why: Excellent accommodations--would have been 4-star if it had had a pool (which we don't use). A terrific 3-star. Great breakfast and good location.
Karen Nagata in Redmond, WA USA 04/17/2008
Best: Javier and family at Hostal Gonzalo Madrid
Why: Special effort to help. I was another victim of pick pockets (kids)
Worst: Hostal Viena Granada
Why: No place to sit other then on beds inside room. Most other places has public place to sit outside of the room
Sommer in Santa Rosa, CA USA 03/26/2008
Best: A Mare in Salema, Portugal (Algarve region)
Why: Very good hosts. They are very friendly and welcoming and have plenty of tour info, if you wish. Delicious breakfast, and great views. Very peaceful and relaxed. Only 50 euro a night off-season. Great deal. Easy daytrips from this spot also.
Pablito in Minneapolis, MN USA 03/26/2008
Best: Hotel Acapulco, Madrid
Why: Absolutely phenominal staff! Most helpful. Sent us perfect directions to use Metro from airport. Funky elevator. Clean, comfortable room. Great central location.
Worst: Hotel Arias, Seville
Why: Grumpy staff. No hot water ever! Pitched a hissy fit when my niece wanted to visit the room. I suppose they thought we were trying to sneak her in without paying. They smoke, and it drifts throughout the hotel. Wouldn't stay there again. Too bad because its a great location.
Gregg Maxwell in Grapevine, TX USA 03/21/2008
Best: TRYP Leganes Hotel, Leganes (Madrid suburb)
Why: Not in your book but we loved it. Staff bent over backwards, only 58 Euros a night, and a nice room.
Mary Spangenberg in PHOENIX, Ar USA 03/19/2008
Best: Hostal Cervantes
Why: Art lovers dream location: walk to all three major museums. Clean, hot water in the shower, comfortable bed and cheap! Perfect for an independent traveler. The guidebook says no breakfast, but actually the manager will give you a coupon for a free breakfast in the cafe across the street if you ask.
Matti in Chicago, IL USA 03/19/2008
Best: Hotel Europa in Madrid
Why: The hotel was very, very clean, the rooms are beautiful, the staff the best I ran into in 14 days of travel. I was going to Toledo for 3 days after leaving Madrid and returning to Madrid for my flight home. I was a bit worn down and they happily agreed to keep my large suitcase so I could just take the small one to Toledo, even tho I was not returning to their hotel! What a difference that made having only the small one through the taxis, trains, etc.
Virginia Lindsey in Sisters, OR USA 03/16/2008
Best: El Convento, Arcos; also Hostal Acapulco, Madrid
Why: Exactly as described, and great choices.
Dick and Marjy in Fiddler, WA USA 03/08/2008
Best: Hostal Triana (Madrid)
Why: Excellent location, near Gran Via and Puerta del Sol. Cost, 53 euros for a doble with private bath and view to Plaza del Carmen. Very clean, wi-fi connection. Victor and all the staff were very nice an helpful. For breakfast, the Omni Cafe, just downstairs. I stayed seven nights, Feb. 7-14, 2008.
Carmen Melendez in San Juan, PR USA 03/04/2008
Worst: Hotel Europa, Madrid
Why: It was under construction so they directed guests to a nearby computer games place to do their emailing. I got my purse and camera stolen there by some brazen you men who diverted my attention. My purse was not in plane sight! Staff did not research this place before recommending it to older patrons.
Tan Milang in Nashville, TN USA 02/22/2008
Best: Arcos-El Convento Ronda- across from Parador, Nerja-Mirasal
Why: Beautiful Views & great Decor.
I'd like to recommend the Hotel Lloret in Barcelona for it's location and price - 48E for a single on the Ramblas by the huge main square
Worst: Granada-Hotel Princessa- not R.S. recommended
Why: Awful, creepy,smokey,sheets that are Goodwill rejects, elevator doesn't work but good location for the bus.
Liz in Boerne, TX USA 02/19/2008
Worst: Hotel Lisboa in Granada -
Why: We had to leave and move to another hotel - it was freezing in the room. It was warmer outdoors. The space-heater the desk clerk brought us was useless. Also, it was grubby.
Lorne in Calgary, Al Canada 02/10/2008
Best: Hotel Europa Madrid
Why: The hotel was very clean. Our room was just ok as it was on the inside. The staff was friendly and spoke English well enough to help us. We also liked the computer in the lobby to send email to our children at home.
Michele in Portland, OR USA 01/18/2008
Best: Tie between Madrid and Sevilla
Why: Hotel Amadeus in Sevilla Hotel Plaza Mayor in Madrid Both great locations and nice rooms and service
Joan in JACKSONVILLE, FL USA 01/17/2008
Best: Hotel Europa Madrid
Why: Location, cleanliness, convenience and friendliness of staff. December 2007
Worst: Hotel Don Juan Salamanca
Why: The bathroom was dirty and I told them when I checked in and they said they would clean it but they didn't. We also selected the hotel because the guidebook said they had a reasonably priced vallet service. They no longer have any parking. (The Spain 2008 guidebook mentions the parking this twice.)December 2007
Marian Quirk in Chicago , IL USA 01/08/2008
Best: Hotel Santa Isabel in Toledo
Why: Very conveniently located near the cathedral. Spacious, spotlessly clean room and wonderful rooftop terrace. We stayed in room 214 which had a great view of the cathedral.
Karis in Cross Plains, WI USA 01/04/2008
Best: Hostel del Gato, Segovia
Why: I think this was the only one we used from the book, but we got to Segovia, looked in the book, picked this one, called (my son speaks spanish well), they had 2 double rooms for 40Euro each. It was in a good location, clean, reasonably priced, and the people were very friendly.
Worst: Citidine Apart-Hotel, Barcelona
Why: I found it online. It was fine, but we got no maid service (maybe that was part of the "apart-hotel" think) and paid $250 Euro a night for a small suite. It is on Las Ramblas, which I would never do again. Las Ramblas is interesting but everything is more expensive and more touristy than two blocks in any direction. I think we could have done better in the Bibera or the Barri Gothic.
Robert Perry in Hingham, MA USA 01/01/2008
Worst: Hotel Simon in Seville
Why: It is a nice hotel with an interior courtyard. They are currently renovating the outside and the entire front has a covered scaffold; therefore, it was hard to find. There was no sign obvious from the front and the back door was closed!They should have placed a big sign with the Hotel's name in front or at least an e-mail to us to inform of the inconvience. Also, Hotel Simon has an indoor garage located across the street from the back of the hotel, but the maintainence garage attendant insisted that we park into a tight space. Even with a car as small as our Peugot 207,it was difficult to get into the space. There were plenty of other spaces and we finally had to argue for a bigger space to park the car.
karen in san francisco, ca USA 12/28/2007
Worst: La Mirada Tarifa, Spain
Why: We had a back, corner room on the second floor. It abutted the local children's soccer field and the noise from the soccer field filled our room in the afternoon and early evening. The bathroom apparently vented to the outside because when you entered the bathroom, the shouts went from noise to recognizable words.
The only artificial light in the room was supplied by 2 wall sconces, each carrying a 25 watt bulb. We had to ask at the desk for a lamp to put on the night stand so we could read at night. The electrical outlet we plugged that lamp into was pulled away from the wall before we received the room. It would have been easy for a child to stick a finger in there and touch the wires.
The hall carpet on the second floor was quite dirty, showing a path up the middle of it.
We have stayed in many recomended R.Steves hotels (Rome; Florence; Amsterdam; Bruge; Tavira,Portugal) and they were all very good and as described. La Mirada was poorly maintained and we would recommend that it not be in your guidebook.
On the positive side, the maids did a nice job cleaning the room and that the desk clerks were helpful and 2 out of 3 clerks spoke excellent English.
Susan Grayson in Cary, NC USA 11/20/2007
Worst: Room in Bilbao in the Old Town
Why: It is not good for people with luggage, a car or for those over 80 years of age. It is difficult to carry luggage upstairs in this hotel.
Charlotte Silverman in Seattle, WA USA 11/06/2007
Worst: Hostal Cordoba in Seville, Spain
Why: The book says it is air conditioned. In fact our AC kept the room warmer than the outdoor air in June and then the management actually shut off the AC at 8:30am each day! Ana and Maria's father said the temperature of our AC was typical of the rest of the rooms and that they always shut it off at that time "so the maid can clean the rooms." Of the 15 facilities we stayed in, this was also the only one which did not honor Rick's price listed in the book. They said it was because the 2007 book price was a "misprint."
Scott Brenden in Tucson, AZ USA 10/21/2007
Best:
Why: oops see above
Renee Jones in Clinton, Wa USA 10/18/2007
Best: Hostal Giadas
Why: The room was dark and quiet at night.
Rebecca W. Sheppard in Fort Worth, Tx USA 10/15/2007
Best: Westin Palace in Madrid
Why: Great luxury hotel in a central location. Close to everything, but without noise of del Sol and other central plazas.
Dmitry USA 10/12/2007
Best:
Why: Barcelona: Casa Camper (green environmentally friendly place great people, food available 24/7, worth the cost)
Granada: Parador,( we loved it walking around at nighttime with no one else around was worth the money and the food was delightful
Gaucin: Hotel Caballo Andaluz ( great location if you want to explore the white towns nice clean place with a great view)
Tangier: La Estrelle de Tariffa ( funky place in a good way, kind of new age no parking great location; liked the atmosphere)
Cadiz: Las Coterz de Cadiz (clean place, terribly hard to get to with all the one way streets, right in the middle of old town, friendly staff)
Jerez: Cassa Grande (clean, great view, parking roof top available, room amazing, great food recommendations, easy to get to, would stay there again in a heart beat)
Seville: Hotel Amadeus (old family home that was turned into a small hotel, music theme, great view from roof top for breakfeast of the Cathedral, funky and cute, the family runs the place and are very helpful)
Parador Almagro: very nice in a farm area, very relaxing the food was great, it’s a old monastery a little luxury
Toldeo: Hotel Santa Isabel (great view from our room of the cathedral, parking available, close to everything to walk, very helpful)
Segovia: Hotel Infanta Isabell (another great view of a cathedral, nice people, had our laundry done quickly, right downtown, valet parking, great food recommendation from front desk, amazing suckling pig and fish for us))
Burgos: Hotel Meson Del Cid (location and view, our window was right looking at the cathedral just amazing, parking garage available, restaurant was to die for, such amazing food, the lamb so smooth. )
Santilliana del Mar: Casa del Organista (delightful little town, go see the church and the cloister the have its worth it, this little place is run smooth and with care, English is spoken the food for breakfast great and the room superb, parking in the back of the building, incredible helpful)
Madrid: Hotel Europa (great location right on placa, del Sol, so its loud but the sound proofing is pretty good, food in café downstairs is also great try the paella ,not good if you have a car since its right in pedestrian area, it has tour groups also but the location and the price is unbeatable)
PATRICIA in KINGSTON, MA USA 10/10/2007
Best: Hotel Europa Madrid
Why: Recently remodeled Clean amd convient to City
Worst: Salamanca
Why: Hard to drive to. No valet parking as noted in book. Exact address is necessity when using GPS.
Donald Rosier in Arvada, CO USA 10/08/2007
Best: Hotel Amudeas Sevilla
Why: The hotel was extremely charming and the rooms were beautifully appointed. The rooftop terrace was especially lovely and enjoyable to relax on after a strenous day of site-seeing. The staff was excellent
Deborah Foley in New York, NY USA 10/05/2007
Best: Hotel Reina Victoria, Ronda
Why: Night shift front desk guy was awesome, very helpful and friendly. The hotel is superb, awesome views, formal yet comfortable decor, comfortable room. Also Hostal Alameda in Tarifa was very nice.
Worst: Continental Hotel, Gibralter
Why: Water pressure so low it was not possible to use the shower. Comatose man at desk not responsive, remote control for television not left in room, needs to be requested from the front desk but they don't tell you this. Otherwise not the worst place I've ever stayed in.
Nick Warner in Palo Alto, CA USA 10/03/2007
Best: Hotel Alcantara, Seville.
Why: Very pleasant and helpful staff.
Tiffany Harris in Birmingham, MI USA 09/25/2007
Best: Parador in Nerja
Why: While a bit on the pricey side, you can't beat the view from the grounds, ease of access to the beach and the beautiful pool area. Rooms are very spacious and clean. It's worth the splurge!
Worst: Hostal Acapulco-Madrid
Why: We have stayed at many Rick Steves hotel recommendations all over Europe and have never had a problem, but this was a bad experience from the beginning. We had arranged weeks in advance with the hostal that we would be arriving late - 10pm. We were right on time, but got stuck in Room #48 which is right in the middle of the lobby. Room was very sparse, very small. Toilet only half-way bolted to floor. Beds were just one step better than a cot. Trash truck pick-up in the 'quiet' Plaza Carmen at 3am woke us. We both awoke with backaches from the horrible beds. We had reserved for 3 nights, but we moved to a different hotel after 1 night. We were using the 2005 Spain book, so maybe this has already been removed as a recommendation in Rick's more recent book.
Amy B in Dallas, TX USA 09/21/2007
Best: Hotel Europa Madrid
Why: I can't say this was the best but I wanted to share my experience to those who are considering it. The room was spartan (think Days Inn without amenities) but this hotel is spotless. The housekeeping staff literally are on their hands and knees cleaning the elevators. The bathroom may have been the cleanest I've ever stayed in. The people weren't as friendly as other posters have stated but they were polite. There's a computer in lobby for checking e-mail but no wireless. Puerto del Sol is currently under construction so the noise make it hard to enjoy the view from balcony but folks who like watching a major construction job would probably love it (my husband would have). I was surprised to see every square inch of the area covered with graffiti. I spoke with other travelers and we all agreed it made this historic area look tacky. Perhaps they'll try to clean up when going for Olympics next time. The hookers that Rick writes about are one street over and one street back from hotel. It's only steps away from shopping, metro and many restaurants so you are in the middle of a major tourist area. Lots and lots of people.
Lynn R in Morgantown, WV USA 08/12/2007
Best: Hotel Continental Palacete Barcelona
Why: Initially I was disappointed. There was a musty odor in the downstairs lobby and the room was tiny but it really grew on me over the 3 nights I was there. The hotel was very clean (so not sure what the lobby odor was) and having the food/drink bar was great. We didn't eat much of the food since it is out all the time but it was great having a beer, wine, or coke "light" whenever we came back to the hotel. Our room was dark but the salon fronted on the street and we spent a lot of time there having a drink and using the free wireless. Also they have terminals around the lobby and salon for guests to use. We took the bottled water with us each day.
Lynn R in Morgantown , WV USA 08/12/2007
Best: Hotel Niza, San Sabastian
Why: view & location, great rooms
LYNN BURGIN in DALLAS, TX USA 08/05/2007
Best: Hotel Plaza Nueva in Granda and Hotel Carlos V in Madrid
Why: Plaza Neuva for the rooms, price and convenience and Carlos V for location (Puerto del Sol area) and price -- plus noce happy hour to help ease the pain of walking all day touring cathedrals and palaces.
Worst: Hotel La Mirada in Tarifa
Why: Poor to non-existent A/C, electric plugs falling out of walls, tape on holes in wall, spartan public spaces, sun patio with two chairs, horrible public spaces, bad location and an non-caring attitude for customers. I can't believe this place made it in a RS's book.
Jody Hunter USA 07/31/2007
Best: Hotel Europa in Madrid, as well as Hotel Gonzalez in Cordoba--lovely patio, too.
Why: Hotel Europa:Outstanding...even the location was superb---right by Plaza del Sol, a central area
Worst: El Jardi Hotel in Barcelona
Why: Elevator broke & we had to climb up & down 7 stories; Noisy nightlife near surrounding tiny square made sleeping difficult---until about 2:30am each night
bj Kukawka in Agoura Hills, Ca USA 07/26/2007
Best: Pintor El Greco, Toledo; Hotel Liabeny, Madrid
Why: Both were 4 stars, in my and my companions' opinions. Helpful, gracious staff; charming, clean, modern accomodations in buildings with character; convenient locations.
Worst: Hotel Don Juan, Salamanca
Why: Yikes! A nightmare to find; no valet parking -- we were given directions to the garage, but no name; ended up parking in the wrong garage. When we reprted there was no attendant, we were told the correct name of the place and had to go back and move the car. A/C didn't work in either of the two rooms; ours finally came on, but leaked constantly. Even after reporting the problem, the best we could do was put the metal trashcan under the leak. Sounded like someone was taking a leak in our room all night long. Our friends' unit actually caved into the space in the wall when they tried to turn it on. They spent the first night in a hot room with the windows open out of necessity, but street noise preventing any sleep. Carpets dirty, bathrooms worn; a far cry from "classy and comfy." Should not be recommended.
Marcy Nicklas in Frederick, MD USA 07/23/2007
Best: Hostal Miguel in Nerja
Why: The hosts were so friendly, we felt like we had known them for years. Everything Rick says is true about this great hostal.
James in Baton Rouge, LA USA 07/16/2007
Best: hotel preciados, madrid
Why: very nice rooms;nice big bathrooms with intub jacuzzi;most rooms with balconies with double French doors to block street noise;good breakfst (not included in room cost);helpful staff
ANDREW FORSTER in CORAL GABLES, FL USA 07/16/2007
Worst: Hostal Centro, Salamanca
Why: The hostal was cheerless, but reasonably clean and centrally located. The weather was unseasonably warm and the staff had no idea how to turn on the central air conditioning. Our room opended on the level where the air conditioning equipment was and it cycled on and off every few minutes all night long, emitting air blockage noises.
James B. Ellsworth in Caldwell, TX USA 06/30/2007
Best: Alavera de los Banos, Ronda
Why: It was beautiful, clean, so comfortable, quiet, relaxing, food was amazing, did I mention quiet? We wanted to take this hotel with us to all of our destinations in southern Spain.
Lindsey in Arlington, VA USA 06/29/2007
Best: Hotel Navas
Why: Centrally located to the cathedral, literally 2 blocks away.
Worst: Hotel Navas
Why: Situated on a pedestrian alley, our cab dropped us off 1.5 blocks from the hotel. Not completely convenient. Pre-trip, I tried to contact the hotel by phone. When I asked if anyone spoke English, they simply hung up. Our tour guide was late getting to the hotel. She phoned them to let us know, and they decided not to share this information. So we spent some time worrying that our $300 Alhambra tour might not occur. Basically, they did not try to communicate with us even when we used the Spanish that we know. It was pretty frustrating.
Wanda Mazurek in Oak Brook, Il USA 06/21/2007
Best: Hostal Cardenal, Toledo
Why: It was low-key and the front desk gave good information. Most of all, it was a very beautiful setting and it seemed as if you were staying in a lovely home.
Worst: Hotel Don Juan, Salamanca
Why: Indifferent staff at front desk, dirty windows and corridors, old bedspreads. No more help with parking, you must take your car to an underground car park 10 minutes away in a city with which you are unfamiliar. No help with baggage.All and all, not a good recommendation any more
Marlene in Jupiter, Fl USA 06/17/2007
Best: Hotel Jardi in Barcelona
Why: Our family of 5 booked 2 rooms, #44 & #82. #82 was exceptional because it has a terrace almost the size of the room and was a great asset to us in the mild weather (last week). #44 had a little balcony built for one. No night time noise whatsoever and both rooms look out over the courtyard (my kids loved it). The beds were okay (this isn't a 3 or 4 star place). Fabulous location as this hotel sits on a little area to it's own and has a great feel to it - away from hustle and bustle of Las Ramblas. Directly downstairs and 5 steps away there is a little bar that has outdoor service in the courtyard and also an ice cream place next door. We were there on a Sunday morning and artists set up directly below the hotel and stayed until about noon. Around the corner and to the right (30 steps) there was an outdoor market (jams, cheeses, etc.) that was open until 6PM (at least that Sunday). Souvenir shop directly below hotel; got lower prices down the street but did buy here but bargained; walking left out of hotel for exactly same items. Nice people at the hotel; the girl at the front desk was exceptionally helpful (works days - not night girl) and even found us in the courtyard to explain our taxi was held up but was coming (in Barcelona, be warned, hard to get a cab for 5 people - most of them just won't do it unless you special order a taxi for 5).
Sandra Potter in Arlington, TX USA 06/16/2007
Best: Hotel Europa Madrid
Why: Friendly staff. great location. recently renovated and new and very clean. a hidden jewel in center of madrid
Worst: Pinto del Geco - toledo
Why: unfriendly staff. no elevator to third floor. expensive breakfast
Bernard Nash in Dix Hills, NY USA 06/12/2007
Best: Hostel Imperio, Toledo
Why: The price has gone up one euro, but I still got my Rick Steves discount. After travelling in hostels, it was a welcome break. The room was clean, and even though I asked for a single room, it was a comfortable double bed. The owner and other woman at the front desk were incredibly helpful and nice, giving me a map and even letting me check in early to take a shower.
Worst: Hostel Metropol, Madrid
Why: Although I'm a budget traveler and going by hostels, my worst experience ever was in Madrid. I booked a 6 person room, which usually isn't a problem and asked to be put with other women. The man rudely told me this wasn't possible. When I arrived, it was about ten o clock and I went to the room... there is only one key, so the person in the room must open the door. However, the two people in the room were already asleep so I had to knock for about ten minutes before one of them answered. Then, there were no blankets or pillows on the bed, even though bedding was included. The man who answered the door did not speak English put pointed to a closet... which was right next to the bed where his friend was already sleeping. I had to wake somebody else up to get a blanket out. The hostel was not very clean. Some of that was due to a pair of incredibly rude roommates I had (one reason why I prefer female roommates)... they shut their internet off at 10 pm, about the time I would arrive home every day so I ended up spending money on internet cafes even though they had "free" internet (also, even if there is nobody waiting for internet, you are still limited to 30 min on the computer).
Jessica in Bethlehem, PA USA 06/12/2007
Best: Casa Capitel in Granada; Hotel Alcantara in Seville; Hotel Europa in Madrid
Why: Casa Capitel in Granada was lovely. Had a lot of old Spanish charm. The staff was very pleasant and helpful. Nice location.
Hotel Alcantara in Seville - couldn't beat the location. Very central in the Plaza Nueva district...close to the Cathedral and the Alcazar as well as shopping. Staff was extremely helpful. They let us leave our luggage overnight while we took a side trip to Carmona. The breakfast was delicious.
Hotel Europa in Madrid had to be my favorite hotel by far. The staff was extremely helpful and friendly. Free internet access. Comfortable rooms and large bathrooms...can't beat the price. Loved the cafeteria next door. Highly recommend.
Melissa in Glendale, CA USA 06/11/2007
Best: hostal acapulco (Madrid); hostal Viena (Granada)
Why: Excellent value for the money: prime location, clean, quiet.
John Petrovic in Portage, MI USA 06/06/2007
Best: Finca La Guzmana
Why: With our rental car it was easy to find and Peter was a very helpful host. Accomodations were great, the huge breakfasts were awesome, facilities included use of his computer, laundry, etc. if guests so wished. It is a great location for many day trips in to the hill towns, Ronda, the Pileta caves, etc.
Worst: Hotel Peninsular in Barcelona
Why: We had difficulty finding a room as most of the other recommendations were full on April 29. It is in a good location off the Ramblas near the metro but was quite noisy with lots of college students and the noise of doors slamming echoes in the open courtyard interior. At least advise earplugs!
G. McKellar USA 05/10/2007
Worst: Hotel Los Tilos
Why: Hotel Los Tilos was in a great location, but the carpet in the hallway was very dirty. The hall also had a greasy smell like burnt oil, and my room reeked of cigarette smoke. It was definitely not worth the money.
L. Chen in Pacific Palisades, CA USA 05/06/2007
Worst: Hotel Macia Plaza, Granada, Spain
Why: They mixed up our reservation dates and we ended up not getting the discount offered to Rick Steves customers. We had a room on the plaza and experienced noise all night every night.
Sue McCauley in Portland, OR USA 05/04/2007
Best: Hotel Continental - La Rambla
Why: Location, location, location!!! Short walk from airport bus stop. Right in the middle of everything. Helpful, friendly staff, great breakfast room, complimentary bottled water and snacks.
Judith Beck in Perkasie, PA USA 05/04/2007
Best: Hotel Europa in Madrid
Why: The staff is amazing--friendly and accomodating and so helpful. The location is superb, as well. My mother and I had a wonderful time drinking inexpensive house wine and people-watching.
Worst: Hotel Imperio in Toldeo
Why: While the staff is quite nice, the hotel itself is rather shabby and bleak. It's also extremely loud--sound carries all over the hotel, making it difficult to sleep.
Melissa in Hart, OR USA 05/01/2007
Best: Loved all the hotels!
Why: Hotel El Jardi in Barcelona-nice, quiet room overlooking a small pedestrian plaza/square, great location a couple of blocks off La Ramblas. Hotel Maestranza in Seville-great location near Plaza Nueva, clean with large bathroom, convenient internet access in lobby. Hotel Don Miguel in Ronda-beautiful view of the gorge, large triple room. Hotel Macia Gran Via in Granada-a bit noisy with our window facing Gran Via and being only one floor up, but still a convenient location and clean room. Hostal Acapulco in Madrid-a block off Puerta del Sol, very friendly and helpful staff.
Miki S in Vancouver, BC Canada 04/25/2007
Best: Hotel Santa Isabelle, Toledo
Why: A beautiful,fully renovated 14th century building with fresh spotless rooms / bathrooms and very comfortable beds (tho'firm) (Room 117). Great Staff (especially Jose Miguel (good English)) delicious "continental breakfast" for 5 euros each, great location near cathedral (5 min. walk). LOVED IT! Wished we had been able to stay longer. Take the spiral staircase up to the roof patio. The views are stunning. Cab fair from train station to Hotel Santa Isabell3, 6 euros, from hotel to train station 9 euros ????? Go Figure.
Worst: Hostel Cervantes, Madrid
Why: Tho' excellent location and just a floor below Hostal Gonzalo, Hostel Cervantes must have lost its charm recently. It feels like an aging boarding house rather than somewhere torist stay. Fabio Alonzo was never on the property (we stayed 10 days) and thus we never had benefit of a 'kind host' to help us figure out the City of Madrid. Very badly worn undersized twin beds, bad plumbing & tiny bathroom, noisey, and no breakfast as promised by the proprioter in privious email confirmations (lies). Christian runs the Hostel, his English is good, but he's from Chile and is a student. He lives on the premises and cares for the rooms. He apologized several times for the owner's lack of maintainance. While staying there, I went upstairs and met Javier at Hostel Gonzalo and realized I should have booked there. Christian did credit me 5 euros for lack of breakfast so we ended up paying 50 euros. The website advertises breakfast but Rick's book does say breakfast is "not" included. Avoid this place and I suggest removing it from the Book!
Dan Stoddard in San Diego, CA USA 04/23/2007
Best: Hotel San Francisco, seville
Why: Nabil and Jose Antonio were the most helpful. The hotel is in the very center of the city (40 meters from the cathedral). The room is clean and the price is the best you can get in the area. There is no breakfast, but there are hundreds of places to have it.
Worst: Hostal Arias, Seville
Why: I was charged on arrival. The bed was horrible and so were the towels. Most of the rooms don't have a view.
john bukoski in Lexington, MA USA 04/18/2007
Best: Hotel El Convento (Arcos) and Hotel Europa (Madrid)
Why: You will know why the Hotel El Convento is the best lodging value around once you get there, trust me. Be sure to get a room with a private balcony. Hotel Europa was cheap, perfectly located, and clean. It may be small by American standards, but then again you are going to Spain to be outside, not inside.
CH in Tampa, FL USA 04/16/2007
Worst: Hotel Granvia, Barcelona
Why: We booked 2 nights at the Hotel Granvia, and notified them twice by e-mail we would be arriving late. They sent an e-mail 3 days before our arrival date again confirming the reservation. When we arrived - NO ROOM!! They sent us to another hotel far from the city center, with essentially nothing to do within walking distance. We were very disappointed.
Robert Whitson in Auburn, CA USA 04/08/2007
Best: Hostal Residencia Mapoula-Santiago
Why: Very congenial owner and for the price it could not be beat.
Tony Ambrose in Louisville, KY USA 04/07/2007
Best: Not in anyone's "best" category, but exactly as you said it was, the Hostal Opera
Why: Spartan, but clean, right off the Rambla, but quiet.
BW in Federal Way, WA USA 03/31/2007
Best: Hotel Acopolco, Madrid
Why: I want to highly recommend the Hotel "Acopolco" in Madrid that is in your Spain book. I was just there on 3/18-3/20 and the family run place was very clean, people nice, courtious, helpful, etc. It was one of the most costly places I stayed but we are talking Madrid and a convienent, central location also.
LL in Levittown, pa USA 03/29/2007
Best: hostal gonzalo
Why: the location to the museums is great, nice quiet neighborhood with great tapas bars around the corner, and Javier the hotel mananger is great, helped us out immensely after being pickpocketed on the metro! wear your money belt!
Worst: casa sol y luna
Why: the price is great but the bathroom door doesn't lock very well and you can hear everyone, and there is just windows on the room with gauzy curtains so you can see in at night when the room is lit from inside.
o'brien in everett, USA 03/28/2007
Worst: Madrid: Victoria Hostels and Arcos Pension
Why: I made a reservation with Victoria Hostels (at two of their facilities and provided all necessary info including credit card). It appears that if you don't make up your mind IMMEDIATELY you will loose your reservation as it happened to me. They are understaffed and/or overwhelmed. None of the Hostels near Puerta del Sol were available due to a weekend festivity. By default,we stayed at Arcos Pension for a week. Yes,cheap and only cash. We had to buy a Pine-Sol like product to clean OURSELVES our "private" toilet which was NOT maintained daily. Even though we were on a fifth floor, a trick that has always helped me is to TAKE EAR PLUGS and EYE SHADES especially for weekend partiers and wee-hours "arrivals". We speak perfect Spanish and if you don't this place is not helpful. Next time I'll try something else.
Freddie J. Negron in Davie, FL USA 03/18/2007
Best: Hotel Europa, Madrid
Why: even though on busy Puerta del Sol, the room was very quiet due to soundproofed balcony door; also spacious double room with large bathroom; centrally located to many sights, shopping and subway; nice to have cafeteria, esp. for breakfast
Mary Jackson USA 03/15/2007
Best: Hotel Europa in Madrid and Hotel Los Tilos.
Why: Hotel Europa - Great location, good price, professional. Los Tilos - professional, good price. Your price is incorrect in the book. It's 70 euros a night + 7% VAT. But with your book we did get 20% off.
Worst: Casa Sol y Luna, Seville
Why: For the price, it was great. But they were oddly stingy with toilet paper in the bathrooms (which were shared by many rooms).
Jennifer in Philadelphia, PA USA 03/12/2007
Best: Hotel El Convento
Why: The fantastic view from the terrace off our room. Yes, it is on the top of a hill, a bit tough to find, but the view and the ambience of the area around the hotel was worth the extra effort.
jmw USA 03/05/2007
Best: Nerja, Spain --Toboso apar-turis
Why: Since Hostal Marissal was full, we checked next door at Tobosoapar-turis on Paseo Balcon de Europa 6. It appears they have another hotel in Malaga by the same name. The kind desk clerk gave our family of 3 the studio internet rate of 45 Euros for a double bed plus a sofa sleeper. He also directed us to a free parking area, where he parks. On our February 2007 trip of staying in 15 hotels, this was the very best. The tastefully decorated roomwas wellappointed with marble-ish floors, TV, microwave, dinette set, fridge, stove, and safe. The lovely wardrobe matched the kitchen cabinets. The gorgeous bathroom contained a copper colored sink. Everything seemedbrand new. The hotel has a sauna, exercise room and both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool overlooking the sea. The also have a cafe with a view of the sea. What a treat for us after sleeping on the train the previous night. Nerja was a wonderful destination. JMW
Jan Wishau in Columbia, MO USA 02/23/2007
Best: Hotel Europa Madrid
Why: Thanks to all the Graffitites that wrote about Hotel Europa. We just spent four nights in Madrid and were extremely pleased with Hotel Europa. It's right on Puerta del Sol and walking distance to most tourists sites as well as a few steps from the Calle Carmen exit of the Metro. It appears as if it has been recently remodeled with double pane windows and new metal shutters which are effective in keeping out the street noise. The room was very clean with modern bathroom facilities, new mattresses, updated furniture, and high speed internet in the room. Staff is helpful and friendly. Five star in my opinion for 80 Euros a night.
Joe DeVita in Surprise, AZ USA 01/13/2007
Best: Hostel Triana
Why: A simply decorated but very clean accomodation. Only a couple of blocks off Puerta del Sol. The Gran Via and Calle metro stops are both only abouyt a block and a half away. There are several barzinhos closeby that have simple breakfast foods and cafe con leite for under 3Euro. There is a great bookstore (4 floors) nearby on Gran Via--had maps for every country in the world and nearly half the price of USA. Front friendly but english was limited. The rooms are relately quiet except on weekends partying noises drift up from barzinhos. I highly recommend this hostel. We had a double with private bath for 45 Euro. Stayed a week. They even stored some luggage for our daughter who was coming to madrid later from Sweden.
Bill Skelton in Newnan, GA USA 01/02/2007
Best: Hotel Santa Isabel, Toledo
Why: Staff very welcoming. Rooms small but very clean and well-designed. Excellent location. A real gem!
Eve Strauss in Manalapan, NJ USA 01/02/2007
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