Apartamentos Parque Carolina

The fixtures are old, the kitchen cupboard doors are loose, and the bathroom flooded when we showered. This is definitely not a 3 star complex. We had to phone to get the keys, and the place advertised as a one bedroom was actually a large studio with no separate bedroom. We didn’t complain because we just wanted a break from work and some sun. In the second week, the owner said it had been sold and the new owner wanted it right away, so we had to move. He gave us 150 euros compensation, and the replacement apartment was exactly the same. When we were due to check out, he wouldn’t let us stay until our late airport pickup, saying that was the airline’s fault. He then got stroppy when we asked for a key to get back into the usually locked reception area to collect our suitcases. We didn’t see anyone enter our old apartment during the few days we were still there. I wouldn’t recommend this place. We’d been to Costa del Silencio many times, but our usual hotel had closed.

The pool is great, and they seem to be improving the place all the time. It was honestly perfect for a simple, no-frills holiday. There’s also a book exchange at reception, which is a nice touch, with some great reads.

For the price, it was fine, and there was very little noise from other rooms. I arrived at 10pm, found the note with my name and two phone numbers on the door, and the first person I called answered straight away. He greeted me by name, asked about my journey, and explained where to find box "D" by the door and how to get in. He said reception would be staffed from 10am the next day if I needed anything. The room felt like stepping back to the late 1990s, but it was lovely and clean. The bathroom was spotless, if a little tired, and the bedding was fresh. I was on the ground floor, and the security gate behind the patio door was sturdy and locked; I had a key for it. The kitchen was well equipped. The safe wouldn’t open, but I’ve travelled enough to find places around the room to hide things. I’d been a little concerned after reading some reviews, but I spent 3 nights at Parque Carolina and had a decent stay.

I left early after nearly 4 weeks because the man looking after the place made noise every night from around midnight. Quiet hours aren’t enforced here. The same guy keeps spitting around the pool. Wear shoes.