MUR Aparthotel Buenos Aires

Though it is housed in a big sand-colored building dating back to the mid-1980s, Aparthotel Buenos Aires is a tad more eye-pleasing inside than most other value properties in the area. It isn’t particularly modern or stylish, but many common areas and most rooms were renovated in 2016, and feature a few touches that make the hotel more appealing than many of its most direct competitors. The lobby has been updated with generic bright-yellow couches and an exposed stone accent wall, and the burgundy walls, dark-wood paneling, and the combination of black tables and chairs with white tablecloths make the restaurant feel inviting and a tad more upscale than those found at similarly priced hotels in Playa del Ingles. Outside, the terrace is big enough to fit a medium-sized pool with a whirlpool, several dozen loungers, and a separate kiddy section. The atmosphere here is generally quiet during the day. Guests here are for the most part British and Scandinavian couples and families, and although noise from the many bars at Yumbo Centrum can carry into some of the rooms, nights seem to be mellower than at other nearby properties that cater to a younger crowd.

The hotel is located on the corner of two streets that get lots of foot traffic in the evening, but that are generally quiet during the day. There are dozens of bars, restaurants, and small shops within an easy walk of the property, and Yumbo Centrum -- a busy mall home to several popular nightlife spots -- is just a couple of doors down. The town’s main beach is about a 15-minute walk away, and there are several bars, shops, and cafes along the way. Maspalomas’ lighthouse, beach, and dunes are just a five-minute drive away, as are Maspalomas Golf Course and Aqualand water park. Gran Canaria Airport is a 25-minute drive away, and transfers can be arranged for a fee at the front desk. There are a few parking spots at the hotel that guests can use free of charge. 

The hotel has 150 simple one-bedroom apartments, all decorated with generic pinewood furniture and a beachy blue-and-white color scheme. Apartments are compact but have all the basics for a comfortable stay, including flat-screen TVs, sofa beds, and balconies with pool views. Each also has its own kitchenette, complete with a mini-fridge, a microwave, cooktop, electric kettle, toaster, and coffeemaker. Wi-Fi is free, but only guaranteed on balconies and common areas, and there is an extra charge for use of safes. Air-conditioning is only available in some apartments and for a fee. Clean bathrooms feature glass-enclosed showers and a combination of gray, brown, and white tiles on walls and floors. Only hand soap is provided. Rooms closest to the street may get noise from the many nearby bars.

The kidney-shaped pool is pleasant and clean, with a small whirlpool and a separate kiddy section that is heated in the winter. There are a couple dozen loungers with cushions and a few umbrellas for shade. Although there have been complaints of guests reserving chairs with towels in the morning, the lifeguard usually removes them after some time if the chairs remain unoccupied. The buffet restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner year-round, but food gets mediocre reviews. Lunch is only served at the poolside snack bar, which is generally praised by past guests.