Las Gondolas Apartments

Like many of its neighbors on the busy Playa del Ingles avenue where Las Gondolas Apartments is located, the 40 apartments of this basic budget option are stacked into a tall tower. There’s a palpable sense of anticipation that builds when approaching the hotel from the north. Even those who aren’t familiar with the area will notice the cobblestone street narrowing and terra-cotta pedestrian walkways widening. It’s a telltale sign of a main attraction ahead -- Playa del Ingles’ main beachfront. That same lighthearted atmosphere finds its way into the hotel as well, though it's certainly not all too exciting on its own merits. Decor is dated and barebones, and features are few. Despite its prime setting, the hotel -- including the pool and rooftop sundeck -- are remarkably calm. Being on a busy street means there will inevitably be some street noise, but this is tempered with the sweet sound of songbirds and the occasional breeze. We saw mostly young families from across Europe and English couples during our April visit, with more mature guests and Scandinavians frequenting in the winter. 

Playa del Ingles’ main beach promenade, beachside restaurants, and market stalls are all just a two-minute walk away, putting this hotel in a prime location that’s hard to beat. However, this also means that noise from the busy street below can be audible inside the hotel. There’s a large supermarket just down the road, making it easy to stock kitchens. Those looking for a nighttime party vibe can try out CC Kasbah, a 10-minute walk away. Some may prefer Yumbo Shopping Centre, which has more gay-friendly bars and clubs, and is a 15-minute walk or five-minute drive from the hotel. The sand dunes of neighboring Maspalomas are a protected nature reserve and can be accessed via the public promenade running through Hotel Riu Palace, an eight-minute drive away. Gran Canaria has just one airport, which is a 25-minute drive away.

Las Gondolas has 40 apartments, split evenly between one- and two-bedroom options. Decor is dated in some, but more modern units are available, so check with the hotel before you book. All are clean, and have large kitchenettes and living areas with sofa beds, flat-screen TVs, and furnished balconies. Balconies are angled towards the beachfront, and upper floors have partial sea views. Ground-floor apartments have furnished terraces instead of balconies. Keep in mind that using safes and TVs requires a fee, which is common with similar budget establishments on the island. Kitchenettes include microwaves, toasters, stovetops, and electric kettles, but no ovens. Bathrooms have either a shower or shower/tub combination. There’s no AC in apartments, though the hotel provides free fans. Pool towels are free with an initial refundable deposit, and changed three times a week. Wi-Fi in apartments will be free starting August 2017, but check ahead to make sure this change has been implemented. 

This hotel has very limited features, with no options for food or drinks on-site. However, myriad restaurants, market stalls, and spots for live evening entertainment abound at the beachfront nearby. Bare essentials include a tranquil rooftop pool with terra-cotta tiling and a separate sundeck, but no kids’ pool. The main rooftop sun deck (separate from the poolside sundeck) is immaculate and well-maintained, standing out as the best feature of the hotel. It’s a guest favorite in winter, and has views to the sea and beachfront as well as picnic tables for self-catered meals.  Guests are welcome for breakfast at neighboring hotel HL Sahara Playa, where a decent breakfast buffet is available for a reasonable price. Half-board and decent all-inclusive plans are also available at that hotel’s restaurant. Red, rose, and white wine as well as beer are available with dinner on the all-inclusive plan, and a decent selection of alcoholic drinks are available at both its poolside bar and terrace bar. There’s free Wi-Fi in Las Gondolas' reception area, and guests receive a free bottle of wine on arrival. The hotel has on-site parking, but availability and costs depend on a variety of complex factors, including which tour company (if any) the stay was booked with.