Hotels round the world - Parador/Alarcón
Aficionados of Paradores and castles might be surprized
by the "reg/bof" classification given to this Parador
in Alarcón. But professional travellers might
think differently.
True, this Parador has undergone recently a total refurshing
and the rooms are stylish. But unless you are given the room
up in the dungeon which is unique, take the following main
comments into consideration:
- Forget about working in the room: no more than a 50cm x 50cm
surface will be available after removing hotel papers from what is
left clear on a piece of furniture in a corner.
- The bathroom is in the room, yes, the bathroom is in the room,
i.e. there is no separation (but the toilet is separated). Thus,
if you enjoy steaming bathes or showers, be prepared to spend a night
in a humid atmosphere (especially in winter when you will not open the
small window as nights are really cold on the Castilla/Mancha plateau).
- A real concern is noise. Right, we are in Spain, but read on:
noise comes from the patio where are opening most of the rooms;
noise comes from the maid knocking on all doors after 20:00 and
shouting she wants to prepare the beds (and from guests
shouting back they don't understand or that's ok as is);
noise comes from the a/c and from the toilets' ventilation
(switched on with the light, and that the people next door
will forget to switch off);
noise comes from other overnighters slamming the (nice) heavy doors; etc.
Someone uncaring can really spoil your rest.
- Take also into account that this Parador has a practice
of easy money-making that was legal in other times in Spain:
the charge includes the breakfast whether you wish to have it
or not. And it will not be available before 08:00, which is
quite late if you are an early riser or have to attend an
early meeting somewhere (remember Alarcón is in
the middle of nowhere).
(30 November 2005)
Hotels Round the World.
© Copyright
André HECK, current year.