Telmho Hotel Boutique

The room felt sterile, almost like a hospital, with no charm at all. Its windows faced a small courtyard with the central air conditioning or ventilation system, and the noise made sleep impossible. There was no view, just another grey wall. Maybe you’ll have better luck, but this was my worst hotel night ever. I know Buenos Aires well and would look elsewhere if you want a pleasant holiday and some sleep. The host’s response was wrong: I hadn’t seen the room beforehand, and you only notice how loud it is when you go upstairs to bed. They should stop renting these rooms facing the air conditioning, but they keep doing it for the money.

The price was very reasonable for a tourist focused place in the city center. Our room was lovely and very quiet, overlooking a picturesque square with live entertainment. Breakfast was excellent, the towels were thick, and the staff were helpful. I’d stay here again.

Fresh fruit at breakfast was the only reason I didn’t give this one star. We couldn’t sleep because our room was beside the alley, where Telmho's industrial airconditioning unit was extremely loud. I don’t know why they didn’t put it on the roof like hotels normally do, or use smaller units. Reception blamed the neighbors, but that doesn’t add up: whenever we, or any nearby room, switched on the airco, the noise started. We found out we weren’t the only ones who couldn’t sleep.

If you want luxury or you’re high maintenance, this isn’t the place. For a laid-back, low maintenance budget stay, I loved it. The little no-frills hotel is right by Plaza Dorego on Defensa, with friendly staff and great service. It’s well located, with shops and restaurants nearby, lots within walking distance, and plenty of taxis, buses and the subte close by. There’s air conditioning, hot water, and breakfast is included. Be ready to walk, and there’s lots to take pictures of, especially during the Sunday's fiesta. Keep your things with you and watch them in the streets of San Telmo. Keep iPhones, Samsungs and other expensive electronics out of sight on all Buenos Aires' streets, Google this. If you stay aware of what’s around you, you should be fine.