Castilla Termal Valbuena, Spain, Room

The previous post showed the Castilla Termal Valbuena’s pools and common areas. Now, we’ll take a look at one of the rooms. This was a duplex affair, with a lower area fitted with desk, mini bar, and couch that you see in the photo below:

DSC_2848The staircase to the right leads up to the bedroom or sleeping loft as it might be called which feature a large bed, closet space, and the bathroom:

IMG_1819The bathroom was quite modern as the next photo shows:

DSC_2851All the amenities are there from the bathrobe to the shampoo. The Castilla Termal was a fine place to enjoy several days, relaxing and recharging after a jaunt through northern Spain. I hope to return soon.

Casa de Tepa, Astorga, Spain

Casa de Tepa is the type of unique accommodation that I enjoy most. It has the unique taste and style of the owners as well as plenty of history. Tucked behind a wall, you’ll find this place complete with a lovely courtyard which is perfect for relaxing after a long day of business or touring.

DSC_2770

As for rooms, there are plenty to choose from. Here’s a large one in which I stayed.

DSC_2765And the view from the other side:

DSC_2766And here’s a view of the spacious bathroom:

DSC_2767Plenty of space with all the fine toiletries you would expect. Then there are the common areas:

DSC_2771There are several:

DSC_2769Plus, a charming staff, delicious breakfast? What more could you want. If you’re in the Astorga area, I can highly recommend this place.

Hotel Ópera, Madrid (2014)

In terms of location, Hotel Ópera has one of the best spots if you want to explore Madrid’s old town on foot. You will be literally across the street from the Teatro Real and about two blocks from the Royal Palace.

Hotel Ópera, Madrid, Spain.

Hotel Ópera, Madrid, Spain.

Walking up to the Plaza Mayor or Plaza del Sol is also an easy trek, maybe five or ten minutes depending upon your fitness level. Rooms are fairly standard.

Standard room at Hotel Ópera, Madrid, Spain.

Standard room at Hotel Ópera, Madrid, Spain.

Of course, everything you need is there for a comfortable stay. Here’s a look at the bathroom:

Bathroom in standard room at Hotel Ópera, Madrid, Spain.

Bathroom in standard room at Hotel Ópera, Madrid, Spain.

Breakfast was included with my room rate and I thought it was a good value. The buffet was fresh and tasty, just the thing to start the day. There’s also a full cafe on the ground floor if you’re looking for coffee, a snack, or a few tapas to round out the day. Service at the front desk is extremely helpful. They arranged for a taxi to take me to the airport, took care of some laundry, and a few other tasks, all with a smile. Convenient and a good value, Hotel Ópera is a good choice in old Madrid.

Published in: on July 29, 2014 at 11:33 am  Leave a Comment  
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Parador at Puebla de Sanabria, Spain

Spain has a wonderful system of “Paradors,” that is hotels in every corner of the country. For some strange reason, I never stayed in one until this trip when I stopped in the town of Puebla de Sanabria, mentioned in the previous post. Many paradors are remodeled historic buildings. This one, however, is a modern facility.

Parador at Puebla de Sanabria, Spain.

Parador at Puebla de Sanabria, Spain.

Whether on holiday or a business meeting, you’ll find this place can accommodate you and/or your group.

Lounge at Parador in Puebla de Sanabria, Spain.

Lounge at Parador in Puebla de Sanabria, Spain.

I stayed in a standard room, which was comfortable and had a view of the old part of town.

Standard room at Parador Puebla de Sanabria, Spain.

Standard room at Parador Puebla de Sanabria, Spain.

The bathroom was just as accommodating:

Bathroom of standard room at Parador Puebla de Sanabria, Spain.

Bathroom of standard room at Parador Puebla de Sanabria, Spain.

And there is a closet to hang up your things if you’re staying a while:

Closet in standard room at Parador Puebla de Sanabria, Spain.

Closet in standard room at Parador Puebla de Sanabria, Spain.

The price was a great value to stay here as it included a lavish breakfast buffet and parking, some of which was under cover. Staff are friendly and helpful. I’d be happy to try more of the paradors in the future.

Published in: on July 15, 2014 at 10:36 am  Leave a Comment  
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