Gamonal in Benalmadena

There are plenty of amenities nearby, and the beach isn’t far away, which is convenient. The blocks themselves are very dated, though, so check that the flat has been refurbished before booking. If it hasn’t, it could be pretty grim. The soundproofing is awful too. You can hear someone sneeze next door as if they were in your flat, and loud music or TV makes it even worse.

The reception staff were lovely, friendly and helpful, and they speak both Spanish and English. But my stay in the apartment I booked through AirBnB was stressful and very disappointing. There were roaches, dustballs to sweep up every day, and constant dust in the air from the roadworks outside. Renovations in the building also made a lot of noise, and there was ongoing construction noise from outside. The old air conditioning units drip into jugs that need emptying daily. I suspect the filter needs changing. I would not recommend staying until the roadwork is finished, and unless you can confirm there won't be renovations near your unit. AirBnB hosts have an ethical responsibility to tell future guests about the dust, noise and roaches. I wouldn't have booked if I'd known about any of it.

I came here on holiday with a child and we still haven't slept properly after three nights. There's been loud talking, smoking and drinking outside at night, so we keep getting smoke drifting in, plus party music from the balcony opposite and banging from next door tonight. There's no air con and nowhere to get away from it. I complained to the host but got nowhere. Their only answer was to call the police. Once I get out of this hell and manage to sleep for a night, I'll call the police and complain to the local authorities. Horrible place. Avoid it.

The location is good, provided you get a nice apartment to stay in.