Hotel Puerta De Toledo - Madrid, Spain     

Landing in Madrid on a red-eye flight from the US...I arrived at the Hotel Puerta de Toledo (via taxi) and was instantly greeted by friendly english speaking staff. They were quick with the check-in and provided basic info on the local neighborhood, etc. Once I got up to my room I got a slight dose of 2-star reality! The room was very clean, however lets just say their isn't much that requires cleaning. Besides a bed, very small desk, and a small TV thats mounted on a ledge in front of the bed, thats the extent of the in-room amenities. Their was only one bed pillow and no extra in the closet. Their are in-room safes for 1 euro per use. The bathroom was the most memorable experience, as the shower is the smallest shower I have ever seen/used. I believe one reviewer commented on hitting his knees when moving around, which was very true. The hotel also provides air conditioning, however in my room the vent was adjusted so as to blow directly onto the bed. Their is a complimentary continental breakfast, however their were only cold options (cereal, pastries, etc), during my stay. The hotel does have a cafe next door, which is good to grab a cappuccino, as they only provide coffee at the hotel. The location is another matter. The hotel to my surprise was located about a 30 minute brisk walk to most attractions or 3-4 metro station stops. However, their is a train station (Puerta de Toledo) just up the street. Overall this is of good value if your bottom line is cost, but you definitely sacrifice location.

I stayed here for four nights in late June 2008. The room was a bit spartan, but fine for a 'no-frills' single traveller. The location is not very central, but still within walking distance of the Plaza Mayor. Everything would have been fine, except for the attitudes I experienced in Reception. The female staff were very polite and attentive, but the men at best offhand. One of them even seemed to give me the 'silent treatment' when I politely asked for my key. Perhaps they're 'macho types' who hold single men in contempt. I made my feelings known in the feedback form. Madrid itself is delightful, I think, but there must be hotels which offer better service (e.g. the Cason del Tormes, where I first stayed, last year).