Pension San Joaquin

The location was the only good part. There was hair on the floor, no soundproofing, and the bathroom really needs renovating. At 35 euros a night, it was okay since I wasn’t expecting much. The usual 80 euros would be overpriced.

I liked the neighborhood, with its supermarket, cafés, restaurants, and excellent laundromat, and the location was close to the main sights without being right in the middle of everything. My room had basic furnishings and linens. The bed suited me since I like a firm mattress, and there was good water pressure and reliable hot water. The bathroom was small, but that wasn’t an issue for me as a solo traveler. The Wi-Fi was surprisingly fast and dependable, and there were enough outlets. Loli the housekeeper was wonderful: she brought me a third blanket and offered a floor heater because the heating didn’t seem to warm the room. I slept well the first night, but not the second. Sound carries through the old building from both the street and other guests, so you can hear practically everything. The patio looks pretty, but in December there was nowhere to sit and no heaters, so I’m not sure how you’re meant to enjoy it. My main frustration was the reception staff’s surliness. Reception wasn’t staffed all the time, and arrivals and departures had to fit their schedule. They didn’t reply to my emails before I arrived. I called the numbers posted in the window so someone, Loli, could let me in and I could leave my bags. I wasn’t asking for early check-in, just somewhere to drop luggage. When I checked out, I asked to leave my bags at reception and collect them before leaving the city, but was told to leave them in my room and come back for them there. Why not have someone at reception during daylight hours? I managed with my okay Spanish, but I wonder how guests who don’t speak it get by. I don’t mind that the accommodation has no facilities, but dealing with the front desk was an ordeal.

The staff were kind, the rooms were clean, and the place really looks lovely. The price was great too, so I’d recommend staying there. The only drawback was that water wouldn’t drain from either the shower or the sink.

The building has a traditional Andalusian courtyard and is close to the center. The reception staff were very nice and helped us find some great places for tapas and local Granada food.