Ayres Apart San Telmo, U201

I wouldn't recommend staying here at all. In the few months I was there, things went missing and other things that weren't mine showed up. The faulty doorknob meant I couldn't lock my room. It was given to me in terrible condition, with moldy doors, a dirty, dusty floor and broken windows. Everything smelled filthy and dusty, and the bathrooms and kitchens were disgusting. The tenants were filthy too. The manager was rude, as was her whole family, and I felt they took advantage of me over money, trying to charge for everything, even breathing. It wasn't worth what I paid. I could easily find somewhere cheaper and simpler within 500 meters.

We loved our time in Buenos Aires and at the hotel. It's more of a family run place where lots of young people live. There's a kitchen, and you can order food at the hotel. They also have a sheet with suggestions and provide a city map. The minibar, cable TV and heater came in handy during our 11 days, more than you might expect. Breakfast is powdered milk, instant coffee and tea, so I bought milk to keep in the minibar since I don't like hot drinks. I kept hoping the next day's breakfast food would bring a better surprise. Delicious. I have no real complaints about cleaning. On one of our 11 days they didn't clean while we were in the room because we'd gotten up late. They said they'd come back later but didn't. That was their only slip. The staff were very welcoming and helpful, and we paid less than expected, 60 reais a night. We'd come back. It isn't especially comfortable, but nothing that would disappoint you. Just watch out with the shower, it can burn you, swinging from very cold to very hot. One nice thing was having hot water at the tap. Buenos Aires gets really cold, and sometimes you're too lazy to wash your hands after using the bathroom, haha!

My nephew and I expected to stay only briefly while looking for somewhere to settle in Buenos Aires. We were so comfortable that we ended up staying for 12 months, until new jobs in the provinces meant we had to move. Claudia, the manager, treated us with real warmth and respect. The building is old but well kept and always clean. It's an excellent place to stay and feel like family, especially for immigrants.

The place is committed to improving its service, something I haven't seen at other boarding houses or guesthouses. The staff are excellent, and the location is great, with a fair price for the service. A small shared lounge would make it even better. If you're moving to San Telmo, put this place on your list.