Globales Palmanova

Globales Palmanova was first opened in 2009 and was completely updated by 2017, so it feels smart and fresh throughout. You'll see splashes of bright colors all around, and it has more attractive appeal than much of its competition. Despite that makeover, features are still relatively limited here and has a low-key vibe. The hotel is centered around a large outdoor swimming pool and spacious sun terrace. There are regular aqua and other fitness classes -- for adults and children -- and nightly shows take place, courtesy of the hotel's in-house entertainment team. The large pool and child-friendly amenities, along with the quieter location and easy walks to the beach, attract mostly families and couples from the U.K. and France.

At the northwestern edge of Palmanova, this Globales outpost has a quieter setting than properties found smack in the center of town. However, there are still plenty of restaurants and bars within a short walk. Of course, this region is all about beaches, and it's only a five-minute walk to the closest beach and Passeig Mar, the beachfront promenade. Like many of the towns in this part of Majorca, the area caters to British tourists and there are numerous family-friendly attractions within an easy walk or short drive. It's just a two-minute stroll to Golf Fantastia, which is great for families with kids, while the wild nightlife of Magaluf is just a 10-minute cab ride away. It will take around 20 minutes by car or cab to reach Palma's Old Town or the airport.

The hotel has 214 rooms, which are smart and modern -- with an IKEA-inspired feel that's still a nice step up from many of the dated properties nearby. They range in size for everyone from single travelers to larger families. Decor is neutral, with some splashes of vibrant blues and greens in linens and accessories, plus oversized landscape artwork. Standard features include air-conditioning, mini-fridges, and flat-screen TVs, though otherwise there aren't many little extras. Don't expect kettles for tea or coffee, and safes come with an excessively hefty and unpublished fee. Additionally, free Wi-Fi is only available for a brief set time period each day, and then comes with daily fees as well. There's a bit of seating in each room and all have small private terraces (though don't expect beach views). Rooms manage to stay quiet as the neighborhood is quiet and the hotel doesn't blast poolside music like other properties. Bathrooms are equally attractive, with tiled floors and shower surrounds, modern fixtures and fittings, and ample counter space in bold colors. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided. 

While it doesn't have the bells and whistles found at other all-inclusive resorts in Majorca, there's enough on-site to make this a relatively popular pick for the area. The large outdoor pool, which was refurbished in 2015, has a decent amount of seating and a poolside snack bar. If there's not enough space to catch rays here, there are a number of tiered terraces. There's also a kids' pool and playground. An in-house entertainment team provides daily activities by the pool as well as a live nighttime program. Dining is decent, and includes a main buffet restaurant plus a pizza restaurant that's proved a popular addition according to previous guests. All-inclusive and half-board rates are available, though expect machine-dispensed cocktails and a limited selection of wine and beer. Additionally, the all-inclusive rates -- in fact, all rates -- only include an extremely limited amount of free Wi-Fi per day. Otherwise, a daily fee is levied.