Hotel Los Balcones Leon

I only spent one night, but the place felt welcoming, secure, and very conveniently located. The room and facilities were really clean. It was one of the few places I found with a properly good hot shower, and they provided soap and shampoo. The price was very reasonable. I didn’t get to try the food or breakfast.

After I’d spent time messaging ahead to say I was coming from Costa Rica and would arrive at 8pm, the hotel gave my room away and left me with nowhere to stay. First they claimed I had no reservation, then they suddenly found it but said the receptionist had given the room to someone else and there was nothing they could do. As a solo female traveller, I found the whole thing really frustrating, especially since the guy at reception seemed to think it was hilarious. I’d advise booking here if you’re arriving late, or you may end up in the same situation.

The location is excellent, and the free breakfast was modest but fine. They also have a cooler filled with pretty cakes that seem to bring in local customers. My clean ground-floor room had a comfortable bed, and they let me check in at 8 am. I even had cable TV, which I hadn’t found at any other hotel during my three weeks in Nicaragua. I’ve read comments about exposed wires on the shower head. That’s common with on-demand shower heaters, but don’t touch the wires. Hot water depends on the water flow: more flow means cooler water, while turning it down can make it scalding.

Marianela and Sheylin were always kind, friendly, and respectful, and they made me feel at home. Without those two employees, I would have moved to another hotel. I’d return to La Terraza Catedral Hotel, which has the same owner, because of them, but not because of Roberto. He made me uncomfortable all the time, treated the staff disrespectfully in front of guests and other employees, and needs to learn to show them respect. Be careful when Roberto returns your money or makes change. He tried to rip me off. I’d still encourage people to stay at or visit La Terraza Catedral Hotel. Thanks. Semper Fidelis!!! Ret. Chief Garcia.