Globales Mimosa

Almost hidden by a cluster of trees, a polished steel portico marks the stairs that lead down to the hotel's entrance. It's not the most inviting of arrival experiences, and inside, the lobby is a rather gloomy mix of black marble floors, natural stone walls, and dark-wood paneling, which roots the property firmly in its 1970s origins. Formerly the Hi! Mimosa Park Hotel, the property changed management in 2016 and became the Globales Mimosa Hotel. New management hasn't made an update of the property, however; the last major renovation was back in 2005, and it shows. While generally well maintained, most of the interiors look and feel extremely dated and in dire need of modernization. Three elevators service the hotel's nine floors, though they can be slow and get crowded during peak times. Dotted with palm trees and lined with flowerbeds, the rear terra-cotta-tiled sun terrace is pleasant enough, with a fun and buzzy vacation vibe helped by regular poolside activities and music. Guests are made up off a pretty even split of couples, families, and groups of friends, mostly from the U.K. 

The hotel is situated on a fairly busy road in the popular tourist resort town of Palmanova on the southwest corner of Majorca. It's set a little away from much of the town's vibrant dining and nightlife, though there are still plenty of bars and restaurants within walking distance. Also around a 10-minute walk away is the middle of the resort's three sandy beaches -- Playa de na Nadala -- and its beachfront promenade. The wild nightlife of neighboring Magaluf is a five-minute cab journey, where during the day families can also find the child-friendly Katmandu Park. The charming cobbled streets of Palma's Old Town are about a half-hour drive away, and Palma de Mallorca Airport is around the same distance.

With their textured walls, tiled floors, and varnished wood furniture, the hotel's 287 rooms are both simple and dated, though also generally kept clean and well maintained. Sliding doors open to balconies with plastic seating and, for those that are high enough, distant mountain or sea views. Some overlook the road, though exterior noise doesn't seem to be an issue and views are of the hills opposite. Amenities are also basic -- there are tube TVs (with some English channels), old-fashioned safes, and telephones, but no minibars or tea- and coffee-making facilities. In-room Wi-Fi is available only for a fee and just fast enough for checking email or searching Google. Bathrooms could also use an update, and feature little more than shower/tub combos (with clingy curtains) and basic toiletries -- there's not even the usually ubiquitous wall-mounted hairdryer. Walls are thin and can allow noise from neighbors through.

The hotel's dining room feels dated in need of a makeover, though a light-filled conservatory overlooking the pool area is one of the more pleasant places to eat. Buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner is served here (rates include half-board and all-inclusive options) and most agree that quality of the food is surprisingly good, especially the evening paella. There's also a poolside bar with terrace area serving snacks, and second bar providing (mostly decent) evening entertainment. Being set away from the beach means that the hotel's pool area is particularly popular and can get crowded during peak season. While not huge, the pool is usually large enough for all and there's a separate splash pool for kids that features loungers in a cool grotto-like area. Plenty of poolside activities, including shows, keep things fun and lively throughout the day. Evening entertainment is family-friendly, and acts might include a magician, bingo, or quiz games. There are also a playground and games room for children, though no fitness or spa facilities for the grown-ups. Sports facilities include a tired-looking tennis court, and sand volleyball courts.