Hotel Villa Italia (Cancun, Mexico)

The focal point of any hotel is cleanliness - particularly in the room itself. High points are scored here as everything is very clean throughout and towels and bedding are replaced regularly.

The local shopping mall is a short walk away and there are plenty of restaurants and shops to keep everyone happy. Public transport is nearby, as is the bus station. The bus for the beach is three blocks away and the cost is ultra cheap. The area has that safe and relaxed feel; not something you get everywhere.

Members of staff are genuinely friendly and helpful. They are very keen to offer advice on best value places to go. Well worth chatting to them.

It's nowhere near the beach so, you'll need to drive or get a cab every time you want to make the journey. The on-site pool is a good compromise and they keep it very clean.

Maybe it's just expected these days but, there's no night-time security guard. You are responsible for your own safety and that of other guests, by ensuring that the gate is locked. This seems to work and maybe there just isn't the need to employ security people.

Rooms are simply furnished but OK really. Beds are a bit hard, though. The air-con isn't just cooling; it is most definitely runs very cold. Too cold really. Some see the exclusion of kids as being a drawback … whilst others decidedly do not!