Hotel Victoria I (Madrid, Spain)

The need for transport is minimal because numerous tapas bars, restaurants, the metro, monuments etc; are all within easy walking distance of the hostal. The location couldn't be better.

Smile at the staff and they'll smile back. It's that sort of place. Once you've broken the ice they can be really helpful and friendly. Worth a smile, then!

Rooms have very few frills but they are clean. Having said that there are few frills, they do include a very handy mini-refrigerator … something not always found in the more frilly hotels.

There is constant traffic noise - but, then, you expect that in a location like this. Also, though, the walls are very thin, so you can hear everything that neighbouring guests say and do. All the rooms are on the same floor as the busy reception area, so that doesn't help the noise situation either.

Beds are very hard and extremely uncomfortable. Times are also hard-and the Wi-Fi doesn't function in all rooms. There seems to be a combined reluctance to try and fix it.

The reception area is very small and cramped and seems to be constantly crowded with people checking in and out. On the occasions when it isn't manned, those leaving have no alternative but to leave the key and just go. Presumably, they also miss out on incoming business. There is though, nowhere to sit, chill out and chat to other guests.