Aires Express

The rooms are basic, which is what you'd expect from a two-star place, but the synthetic leather covering on the mattress and pillows made sleeping uncomfortable. The pillows were so hard that my mother and I woke up with head and neck pain, and the mattress felt hot and made us sweat. The facilities also seemed neglected, with loose outlets, an air conditioner that didn't work properly, and damaged locks and doors. I stayed four nights over five days. Someone came in daily and said they were cleaning, but all they did was make the bed. The floor still had shower marks, hair, and lint. They also never replaced toilet paper, shampoo, soap, or towels, even though the cleaners saw these were running low. I had to go to reception and ask for the basics myself. Breakfast was very minimal, just tea, coffee, and toast with a small packet of jam. The breakfast area doubles as a shared kitchen, with two kettles and a microwave, but no dishes, cutlery, glasses, or cups. When I ordered food, the receptionist had to lend me his own cutlery. Travelers shouldn't have to pack that, and it's an easy, inexpensive thing for the hotel to fix. For a two-star rating, the basics are especially important. A few simple changes to cleaning, replacing supplies, and making the rooms comfortable would make a big difference.

Almagro made a great base, with restaurants, main avenues, and transport close by. My room was neat, clean, and comfortable for resting, and the staff were attentive and happy to answer questions throughout the stay. The price felt like good value. A practical, well-located option in Buenos Aires, and one I'd recommend.

I wouldn't recommend staying here after how the concierge treated us on Saturday night, January 24th. There were two of us, but the room only had one towel, so we asked for another. He answered sarcastically, with an arrogant, unhelpful attitude, “What are you waiting for? I'll see if there are any towels left.” You could see the sarcasm on his face. That one interaction ruined the experience for me.

The staff deserve a special mention for being so helpful whenever we needed anything. Our room was roomy and had what we needed for a comfortable stay, and breakfast was generous and complete. I'd happily recommend it.