Feirs Park Hotel

First opened in 1994, Feir’s Park Hotel is starting to show its age. The property is slowly updating rooms and common spaces -- as of late 2018, several floors had been renovated -- but those expecting the five-star property it claims to be will be disappointed. The lobby has gleaming marble floors, gold accents, and a pleasant seating area with big couches, a traditional rug, and dark coffee table, yet the overall feel is generic. A cozy library and an elegant bar with aquamarine stools are at the restaurant, while the rooftop terrace sports several sunbathing areas, a small pool, and great views. However, rooms are more functional than stylish, and the hotel lacks most of the amenities and services expected of a true luxury property. 

The hotel attracts a diverse clientele, including many couples and business travelers, most of whom appreciate the large rooms, central location, and competitive rates. However, and despite the updates, those seeking something a touch more upscale in the area may want to compare rates at the NH Buenos Aires Crillon, which can sometimes be cheaper. For a little bit more money, the Melia Buenos Aires Hotel offers a wider array of amenities, including an indoor pool, a larger gym, and spa, plus classic rooms. Wi-Fi, though, is an extra charge. Sileo Hotel, located across from famous Recoleta Cemetery, is a more charming option with an outstanding list of amenities and stylish rooms with kitchenettes.

Feir's Park Hotel is located in the downtown neighborhood of Retiro, next to a railway station and close to businesses and government agencies. The area is a 15-minute walk north of Microcentro, the city's financial and cultural heart. Plaza San Martin, a lovely park surrounded by beautiful historic mansions, is about a five-minute walk away, while famous Galerias Pacifico can be reached in less than 15 minutes by foot. The nearest Subte (metro) stop is at Retiro train station, located a five-minute walk away, which makes getting to other major attractions -- such as Teatro Colon, San Telmo, Palermo, and Puerto Madero -- fast, easy, and cheap. The hotel is a 25-minute drive from Aeroparque Internacional Jorge Newbery, and an hour's drive from Ezeiza International Airport. Underground parking and airport transfers are available for a fee at the hotel. 

The hotel has 112 rooms divided into several categories, ranging from standard units to three-bedroom Imperial Suites. Starting at 377 square feet, rooms are larger than average for Buenos Aires, and have enough space to fit a king bed (or two twins), a sitting area, and work desk. All have large windows, and street-facing units have balconies, but the road is narrow and lined with tall buildings, which means rooms aren’t particularly sunny. Also on the downside, balconies are unfurnished. The hotel is slowly updating rooms (as of fall 2018, just seven had been renovated), but decor is simple and functional throughout. Renovated units have attractive wooden floors, big padded headboards in dark hues, a couple of pops of color, and generic wood furniture with clean lines. Non-renovated rooms have wall-to-wall carpet, older wood furniture, and crushed-velvet seating in earth tones.

Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, minibars, flat-screen TVs, safes, and individually controlled air-conditioning and heating. Electric kettles are standard in all rooms as well, but tea and coffee are not provided. Some suites have kitchenettes, while the Imperial Suites has a full kitchen outfitted with a dishwasher and a full-sized fridge. Bathrooms are clean but feel older, due to gray tiles throughout, small sink areas, shower/tub combos with glass screens, and a basic selection of toiletries. Older wall-mounted hairdryers are also provided. 

One of the best features at the Feir’s Park Hotel is its rooftop area, complete with a small pool, several decks with loungers, and free towels. The pool opens seasonally (generally, between November and April), but guests can also relax and enjoy the panoramic views from up there in the colder months. A small gym has basic, though modern equipment, and there is a dry sauna that guests can use free of charge. 

Breakfast is included in all room rates, and it offers a decent array of continental and hot options that most guests find adequate. The restaurant also serves international cuisine for lunch and dinner, as well as traditional English afternoon tea a couple of times per week, complete with scones, homemade jams, and sandwiches. Four meeting rooms have natural light and audiovisual equipment. Event catering services are available for a fee.