Parador Santa Maria La Real

The hotel itself is lovely, with an old-Spain feel, and we were happy with the presidential suite, the restaurant, and the courteous, helpful staff. I arrived very ill after pneumonia and altitude sickness, though, and the spa was disappointing. The sauna wasn't working and needed to be booked ahead; it also couldn't be used during a facial because of the noise. My massage therapist seemed skilled, but kept leaving the room to take online calls and was clearly stressed. The room was cold, there was no sheet or blanket, and she had to use my robe. There were no spa sandals, and staff kept knocking to tell her to finish, unaware that she'd started late because of the calls. I tipped her well, but it wasn't relaxing. They need to prepare the room properly and stop interrupting. Aside from that, I'd give the hotel five stars.

I travel every day and was really disappointed. The room cost $160 and didn't feel worth it. Towels were dirty, there was black mold in the shower, and noise came straight through the walls. The staff seemed stressed, had a negative manner, and were the opposite of service-minded. Even basic things felt like extra charges: no water on arrival, and you had to pay for ironing service because there was no iron. It felt like the hotel was just trying to get money out of guests. I won't return.

The location and the old, charming look were the few things I liked. The rest felt run down and poorly handled. Noise came through easily, there were no blackout curtains, and the bathroom smelled like a sewer, with mold on the tiles and stained towels. Nothing seemed included, not even a bottle of water on arrival, and there was no iron unless you paid for ironing service. Breakfast was late to start, the staff seemed rushed, and we waited ages for food. Staff at both the front desk and breakfast were very impolite. For one of Sucre's most expensive hotels, it needs urgent renovations and much friendlier, more hospitable service. I wouldn't stay again or recommend it. Save your money for somewhere without such a prestigious name.

Luis, the owner, took us on a private tour and made sure we were looked after. We loved the beautiful room, the great service, the fantastic food, and the delicious cocktails.