Paladim Apartments

Marked by a trio of arches, the entrance to the whitewashed Paladim Aparthotel is situated in the middle of a parade of shops and cafes. Stepping inside, flower arrangements cascade over tall, yellow urns set on polished granite floors, while the ceiling is painted to resemble a blue sky dotted with clouds. While the feel is initially dated, further into the lobby, low-level midcentury style furniture and plants in metallic pots create a more trendy retro vibe. A pair of elevators ferries guests to rooms spread across four floors, while the ground floor is occupied by the hotel's restaurant/bar, which returns to a slightly dated aesthetic, and is kitted out with large speakers and numerous TV screens. The restaurant opens to a spacious semi-covered outdoor terrace, a pleasant place to relax with seating overlooking the pool and garden area. During high season, this friendly and laid-back hotel attracts mainly families with kids, while off season sees an increase in more senior travelers.

The hotel is located in the popular Algarve resort town of Albufeira, with many shops, bars, and restaurants within a short stroll -- the Albufeira Shopping Mall is next door. But some may find it a little too far from the city's major hubs and the beach. Old Town is a six-minute cab journey or a 15-minute walk to the west, while the buzz of Albufeira's nightlife -- the bars and clubs of the famous "strip" -- is about the same distance in the other direction. There are two long picturesque beaches that can be reached in about 15 minutes on foot, while the lush Jardim da Cachoeira park is a five-minute walk away. The Albufeira Bus Station is a three-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the hotel, while the train station is a 10-minute drive. Faro Airport can be reached in about 35 minutes by car.

The hotel has 46 apartments and 17 studios, all decked out with tiled floors, basic wooden furniture, and the occasional splash of color. While clean and generally well-maintained, most feel dated and could do with a refresh. Cooking facilities come in the form of kitchenettes, all reasonably well-equipped with electric hobs, microwaves, toasters, and small fridges with freezers (though also with oddly mismatched cupboard doors in some cases). Other amenities include air-conditioning and flat-screen TVs, though there's no Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are tiled throughout and also a bit dated, with basic shower/tub combos and bidets. Glass doors slide open to furnished balconies overlooking the road or pool. Reports suggest some rooms can be noisy, both from the bar below and from other rooms and hallways. 

Breakfast is not included in standard rates, but is available in the hotel's bar/restaurant, which also serves lunch and dinner that can be enjoyed on the terrace -- guests generally agree that food is reasonably priced and good quality. Snacks and drinks are also available at the poolside bar, which offers karaoke and live bands in the evening. Some have mentioned that the bar area can get rowdy when there are groups staying in the hotel. Sun loungers and parasols are available around the relatively large outdoor swimming pool and on the lawn area, but some guests complain that there are not enough. There's also a separate kiddy pool. Wi-Fi is free in public areas, and a game room includes pool and table football.