CasaGoa

CasaGoa is located literally on the side of river Manazares, you step out of the hotel to the river bank - which is a good two-three kilometer long strip of parks, running course, recreation areas, greenery in the middle of the city; beautiful old and new footbridges (one can even cross the river on top of a dam. And it is not that touristy and crowded as other parks downtown (Prado or Retiro). The Metro or train is only a couple minutes walk. There are quite a few breakfast/brunch places in the neighborhood, with excellent food and at local prices. The owners and the patrons were all friendly and helpful. There are a few small convenience stores, too. CasaGoa is kept in good repair, the access is very safe. The common rooms are cleaned every day, even on weekends; bathrooms are small but we'll equipped - the hair dryer is there, you do not even have to request it or pay extra for it. And this was the first small hotel/Airbnb where I found appropriate mirror lights adequate for make-up and shaving. The owner-operator communicated well on English and was helpful: reached out to help with the mandatory legislation and helped when we arrived later than planned. We did not used the kitchen, but it had everything to cover the basic cooking need for a visitor or a couple of day stay. The rooms are clean, and obviously looked after, everything worked well. The power outlets were multi-standard (EU, US, UK + USB, including 20W USB-C for laptop power), so no adaptor or extension cord was necessary. Our room was cool (while it was 36-38 °C outside) and had an excellent fan, but no A/C - this was again a (good) feature for us, but might not be so for all potential guests.

The access requires a smartphone - either with internet or with an app (I didn't check the Bluetooth/NFC option, but I assume they work, as well). However, the link for the app only arrived while we were underway - it might be easier/cheaper for most guest to receive it early (at least optionally, a couple of days earlier so they can download it on their home network). The bathrooms are separate and shared between too or three bedrooms - this was OK for us, especially that they were clean and well equipped. I missed a somewhat bigger wardrobe and/or a luggage storage opportunity (preferably in the room).

Xavier was delightful. The place is tidy and well appointed. My room was sufficient for its purpose and the location is great. It looks just like the photos.

The peace and quiet relies on having good neighbors in the other rooms- thats a difficult variable to control.

Staff were very helpful and supportive.

The photos in the ad seem a little bit photoshopped.

- la comodidad de una planta baja - la colaboración de todos los inquilinos en mantener silencio

- la cocina y lavabos, estaban atrotinados - la decoración, parecía que habían puesto todo lo que les han donado