Servatur Barbados

This humble 70-apartment budget option is admittedly basic, but can be a decent value. Apartments are divided across two C-shaped buildings, each of which wraps around its own separate pool and garden, allowing plenty of pool space for everyone. Interiors are tired and dated, from the lobby, which can feel like an underground lair, to the few public spaces. It’s all certainly old-fashioned, though it resembles a grandmother’s well-kept home than a generic apart-hotel complex. This is an LGBTQ-friendly establishment, but unlike party-hard local competitor Playa del Sol, it has a more low-key atmosphere that better suits non-party types. The hotel was quiet during our visit -- save the lady running the poolside bar, whose colorful character is either a hit or miss with guests. The few guests we saw were British, and the hotel accommodates more mature visitors in winter. All in all, it suits no-fuss travelers who value cleanliness, a central location, and a peaceful vibe over fancy decor and special perks.

This apart-hotel is situated in Playa del Ingles’ geographical center of sorts, being roughly equidistant to both the sand dunes and Playa del Ingles’ beach. Restaurants, gay-friendly nightclubs, and shopping options can be found in Yumbo Shopping Centre, located a four-minute walk around the corner. There’s also a HiperDino supermarket across from Yumbo, which sells many English products, along with German and Scandinavian goods. CC Kasbah, frequented for its nightlife and shops, is a longer 14-minute walk away. The sand dunes of neighboring Maspalomas are a protected nature reserve and can be accessed via the public promenade running through Hotel Riu Palace -- a 13-minute walk or four-minute drive away. The main stalls, restaurants, and beachfront of Playa del Ingles is a 15-minute walk away. Gran Canaria has just one airport, which is a 20-minute drive from the hotel.

The 70 apartments at Servatur Barbados are clean and dated, but have a pleasant atmosphere. Simple pine furniture, cool tiled floors, and plaid textiles all hail from distant time. That even extends to the comfort amenities and in-room tech: the TVs are tube units (and satellite channels aren't free), there is no air-conditioning, and Wi-Fi isn't free. All apartments sleep five and have two bedrooms, kitchenettes, sofa beds, and balconies. Most balconies overlook the pool and garden, and those on the top floor have sea views. Although many are west-facing, they’re not designed for sunbathing, which is better done by the pool. All bathrooms come with bidets, and most have showers instead of tubs. Kitchenettes are equipped with toasters, tea kettles, coffeemakers, microwaves, and stovetops, but no ovens. Unlike  many other budget apart-hotels in the area, free beach towels are provided and changed three times a week at no extra charge. However, keep in mind that housekeeping is only offered five days per week.

Features of this basic two-pearl establishment are limited, and the hotel is best for travelers who aren’t looking to spend their entire time on-site. There’s no restaurant providing daily meals, although the poolside bar serves sandwiches and light fare, including a decent cooked breakfast (though it starts late). Likewise, there isn’t any evening entertainment or organized recreational activities, although live music and evening shows abound in nearby clubs and restaurants. Each building has its own pool and garden, allowing guests to spread out and ensuring there are plenty of sun loungers available. Each pool has a separate toddlers’ pool, but this is the only kid-friendly facility. A separate poolside sunbathing deck is available as well. Although parking on the main street is not free, there are adjacent side streets with free parking available. Wi-Fi isn't free at the hotel.