Habitaciones la Mar

The lack of things in the room caught me by surprise. There was no kettle, kitchen, cups or forks, so I had to spend 2-3 euros each time I wanted coffee. If you stay, be prepared to spend a lot on food and drinks outside. Otherwise, it wasn't too bad.

I was made to leave before I even checked in, after a very rude and unprofessional exchange. It left me angry, and I wouldn't recommend the hostel. This was December 2015, in the middle of winter. Prices were much lower then, and I needed somewhere to stay for six weeks while preparing for a course. When I arrived in Barcelona, I stopped at Starbucks cafe in la Rambla for tea and to use my laptop. My suitcase was stolen while I was there, with my course materials, books, clothes and other belongings inside, worth 3000,- euro. It was 10:30 at night, cold and raining. I spent that night at hotel Golden in the heart of La Rambla for 20,- euros, then the next night at a hotel in the center of Alicante for 25,- euros. Altea was very quiet, with no tourists at that time of year. Since I was hoping to stay for six weeks, I expected it to cost no more than 15,- euros a night, less than hotel Golden in Barcelona. When I got to the hostel in the evening, I didn't see any guests. A man from the staff was there, and I asked for a single room. He quoted 25,- euros per night. I said that seemed expensive, since I'd stayed at a nice hotel in Alicante for the same 25,- euros. He answered rudely, “Okay... go back to Alicante.” I left right away. I've worked for more than 20 years at top hotels in various European countries, and I know what good service looks like. I'll never forget this experience. That man's behavior gives the hostel a bad reputation.

A holiday that was well earned.

The location couldn't be better, and Lucas was so helpful and friendly. I'd definitely stay here again.