Madrid Hotel Tips by suvanki

Astoria Hostal: 2* Clean comfortable Great location Astoria Hostal Review

I booked this place through WWW.Venere.com, and was very pleased with my stay. I'd certainly stay here again.

Remember that Hostals in Spain are usually a 2* establishment, not like Hostels, which are usually more basic, but usually an authentic accommodation experience.

From Sol metro it is about a 3 -5 minute walk to this property.

A lift takes you to the 5th floor, and into a pleasant lounge and reception area. The staff speak very little English, but are friendly and efficient.

The building itself dates back to the 1890's, and opened as a hostal in 1993

My room was at the back of the property, with a view of the building opposite. This wasn't a problem as I wasn't in my room for too long, and it was probably quieter than a street view.

I'd paid 96.30 euros ($153 / £76 ) for 2 nights single room with en-suite. Breakfast not included, but there are plenty of places to eat nearby.

Free internet access. 24 hour reception

My room (519) was spotlessly clean and more spacious than I'd expected.

Pleasantly furnished. Key card for door and electrics. I think all rooms are non- smoking.
2 single beds, wardrobe (with security box - 1 euro coin, non-returnable, which was a bit of a nuisance as each time I wanted to get something out I had to put in another coin to lock it)

Writing desk, chairs, case stand, TV (had CNN for first day, but not able to receive later). Telephone, radio, Air Con
Bathroom with small bath/ shower, WC, basin, hairdryer. Towels

Freebies- bath gel/shampoo- which smelt very nice, soap, comb, shower cap, shoe shine pad.

Eco friendly notices advising re-using towels, and to use shower in preference of bath.

There was some building work going on, but this didn't bother me too much, they didn't start until late in the morning. I'm not sure if they are expanding the Hostal or renovating rooms. I saw lots of floor tiles being taken up in the lift.

Coffee Vending machine - 50 cents for various coffees, hot chocolate or tea.

Also cans of soft drinks 1.50 euros, water 1 euro, beer 1.50 euros.

Unique Qualities: Ideally located for the sights of Madrid.

Between Sol and Paseo del Prado.

The Madrid Vision tour bus stops nearby (Line 2 Stop 15 Las Cortes - opposite the Congreso de los Diputados, and near the Palace Hotel.

Metro Sol
(Sevilla is 150 metres from the Hostal Astoria, but the station was closed at the time of my visit, presumably as part of the instillation of the new train line into Sol)

Address: Carrera San Jeronimo n 30-32, 5 floor , Madrid, C

Comparison: less expensive than average

Directions: From Sol, C/Jeronimo is to the right of the Tio Pepe sign. Continue along here.

After a flamenco theatre you come to a jewellers shop, turn right into the passageway.
Lift to the 5th floor.

Metro- Sol

(Seville was closed at my visit)

Other Contact: info@hostal-astoria.com

Phone: 34 914 291 188

Price: US$40-80

Theme: Hotel

Ayre Gran Hotel Colon: Comfortable Modern hotel 2 mins from Metro Ayre Gran Hotel Colon Review

I was very impressed by my room (704) in this 4* hotel.

I usually stay in more basic accommodation, but I wanted to stay near the Palace des Deportes
(This was where Bruce Springsteen and the E-Street Band were performing).

This was my first visit to Madrid, so wasn't sure of the city lay out, or how easy it would be to get around, especially late at night after the concert.

Booking. com had a Double room for a single person, 2 nights for 130 Euros

(Breakfast (buffet) would have been 12 euros extra)

Pleasant Reception area, efficient check in.

2 lifts.

My room was quite spacious, modern with light furnishings and fittings.

Double bed (with assortment of pillows, and description leaflet explaining the different fillings!), wardrobe, safe, mini bar with complimentary waters, large flat screen TV.

Spacious bathroom with large shower cubicle, basin, WC. Large fluffy towels, make up mirror, hairdryer.

Freebies- bath/ shower gels, shampoo, comb, shower cap, toothbrush/paste, glycerine soap, sewing kit, chocolates.

A card gave the name of the cleaner - The room was spotless!

There is a restaurant and cafeteria, which I didn't get chance to eat in.

Rooftop gym, sauna, hair/beauty salon (Which I was hoping to use, but didn't get the time)

Unique Qualities: 2 mins walk from Metro station (Sainz de Baranda - Line 9 - Purple) which connects to Circular line (6 - Grey)

Glass work features in lounge areas by the artist Manuel Ortega

Modern and airy reception/ lounge areas

Pleasant garden with decking, gravel paths, seating. Trees and shrubs

Although this hotel is away from the main attractions, it is quite near to the Retira Gardens and Prado museum.

I found it easy to use the Metro to get around (I purchased a 2 day tourist ticket for 6.80 euros which I found good value)

Near the hotel are restaurants and bars.

I'd Certainly use this hotel again!

Address: Pez Volador, 1-11 28007 Madrid

Comparison: about average

Directions: South of the airport. East of the centre. Near Retiro Gardens (SE entrance)

Metro - Sainz de Baranda (Line 9) - exit at Calle del Doctor Esquerdo. Citreon garage on the right, continue downhill for 200-300metres.

Other Contact: colon@ayrehoteles.com

Phone: +34914009900 fx +34915730809

Price: US$80-120

Theme: Hotel

Website: http://www.ayrehoteles.com