Martin - Madrid, Spain 

After spending a lovely week in a quiet apartment unit on a tree-lined street in Madrid, we (a family of three) went to the coastal areas. Our return flight to our home detination was from Madrid, very early in the morning. So, before leaving Madrid, attracted by its central location, we went to Hostal Martin -- to get a basic room for the one night we would have to return to Madrid to catch our international flight. They could not show us the triple room because it was occupied but assured us that we would have a nice, quiet triple. We prepaid for the room, just to make sure we lock it in. We returned to Madrid late, the night before the flight. Hostal Martin said the room was not ready -- it was well past 8 PM. We went out for dinner and came back. Instead of the room promised, they herded us into a room that was being renovated, reeking with paint and varnish smell, with painter's tape still all over. We protested, they said tough luck. We had just a few hours before the flight, so we just huddled up and ... tried.. to sleep in that smelly, cramped room. We sent email complaint later, hoping the Hostal would at least send an apology. Nothing. The staff was cold, unhelpful and the property... a hell hole for one night. Avoid this rat trap, despite its central location!

probably the worst hostel I've been to during the last year. The room was dark, grimy and with gargling water pipes as background tracking. The 'ensuite' bathroom may sound grand until you've been there that is. There was an underlying odour that was impossible to shake off and is still in my nostrils writing this review so I think I'll just leave off here. Oh by the way we left right the next morning although we had booked a couple of nights and found a place round the corner at the same price but much better. Good luck.