Cabau Cala Nova

Cabau Cala Nova is one of many aparthotels nestled in Puerto Rico. The hotel gets plenty of warm sunshine year round and all day long thanks to its location, making it perfect for guests who enjoy time by the pool or sunbathing. The pool area is a lively, busy spot that's like a magnet for guests, but expect perpetual dance music and a continuous microphone dialog from the recreation host. For those who prefer a more low-key atmosphere, the far end of the sunbathing deck is a better bet, and has a tendency to attract the hotel's more mature guests. Unlike its sister hotel Cabau Cala d’Or, which has more modern interiors, the Cala Nova property has a homey feel that's a bit dated. Even so, it's clean and well-maintained, and nothing feels worn or rundown. The reception area is light and airy with a colorful mosaic backdrop, and apartments have a relaxed, seaside feel. The hotel accommodates families and couples of all ages, with most coming from the U.K.

As with many of the hotels in this dry, mountainous region, Cabau Cala Nova is on a local road carved into the hillside, nestled in the valley of Puerto Rico. It’s either a five-minute walk via 80 steps, or a slightly longer walk down the inclined road to the main shopping center at sea level. There, you'll find restaurants, bars, and clubs open until early morning hours (read: noise that travels). Puerto Rico Beach and the marina are a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Europa Fashion Mall, located outside the valley, is 10 minutes away by car. The airport is a 35-minute drive away, and the vibrant city of Las Palmas is roughly one hour by car.

All 56 apartments of Cala Nova have a country-inspired dated look, with rustic wooden blue furniture and cranberry-tinted accents. Expect generic wall art and lots of patterns in the soft furnishings. The majority are one-bedroom apartments, which feature small kitchenettes, separate living areas with flat-screen TVs and sofabeds, and spacious balconies with beautiful partial sea views. Balconies are furnished with a table and chairs. Kitchenettes are unfortunately basic, with two stovetops, fridges, and tea kettles, but no ovens or microwaves. Bathrooms are clean with white tiling, and slightly dated fixtures. There’s no air-conditioning, but fans can be rented from reception and are subject to availability. Three two-bedroom apartments are located on the same floor as the pool. The terraces are furnished with a table and chairs and are spacious, but share the same space with the pool’s sunbathing deck, allowing for little privacy. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi can be spotty and is paid per device. A basic handful of satellite TV channels are free, and additional channels are only available for a fee. Access to the safe is not free. At night, music and noise from the main shopping center may be audible until early morning.

The pool area is the main hub of activity of Cala Nova, and while a bit crowded at times, is a lively area that makes most previous guests happy. There are activities throughout the day, including ones for kids. Use of the ping-pong table and billiards table is free -- one of the few free perks of the hotel. The pool deck extends to the far end of the hotel, offering a quiet sunbathing area for those who prefer a more low-key vibe. Beach towels are not free, and guests tend to bring their own. The poolside snack bar is a relaxed space that serves drinks as well as cooked breakfast and light bites such as pasta, pizza, and burgers. It also hosts a barbecue night every Wednesday, along with live entertainment on occasional evenings. A guest computer, located in a corner of reception, is available for a fee. Wi-Fi is not free anywhere in the hotel, but guests can get 30 minutes of access with the purchase of a drink from the bar. There is a small mini-market in the reception area which stocks limited basics. There’s no private parking available, and limited free street parking.