Hotel Mix Alea

The Hotel Alea joined the Mix hotel chain in 2016, who spruced up the property with a few cosmetic contemporary touches that helped detract from the property's dated look. Though composed of 110 rooms spread over five floors, the hotel also feels relatively small. There's little in the way of public space besides the dining room and compact pool terrace enclosed by a chain-link fence (the pool is also prone to shade). A single elevator services the property and hallways are bright, clean, and well-maintained. Ultimately it's a budget hotel with little in the way of polish or panache, though one that does offer the basics at very reasonable rates to cost-conscious vacationers -- mostly younger couples and groups.

The hotel is tucked away down a quiet no-through road in the slightly shabby southern fringes of Majorca's El Arenal resort and next to the Son Verí forest. Although there's little beyond other hotels and apartments in the immediate area, there are plenty of dining and nightlife options within a short stroll -- mostly aimed at the German tourist majority. The start of the lively seafront promenade is around 10 minutes away on foot. This is also where miles of sandy beach begins, and (typically) wonderfully clear and calm waters are found. A big plus for families is the proximity to Aqualand El Arenal, which is a 10-minute walk or a few minutes' cab journey. Easy access to the nearby freeway also means the charming cobbled streets of Palma's Old Town are under 15 minutes' drive away, and Palma de Mallorca Airport is even closer. 

While not particularly modern, the hotel's 110 air-conditioned rooms are a pleasant combination of wood-veneer flooring, warm wood paneling, and coordinating striped fabrics. All room open to balconies or terraces with plastic patio-style seating. Some outdoor spaces have impressive views over the adjacent parkland and others look directly to scruffy neighboring buildings. Some top-level rooms feature spacious terraces with panoramas that include the bay. Room size can vary from spacious and bright, to rather small and pokey. Amenities are limited to flat-screen TVs, telephones, and old-style safes. Wi-Fi is available for a fee though connectively can be spotty on higher floors. Most bathrooms are old-fashioned tile, with shower/tub combos (covered by flimsy shower curtains), hairdryers, and simple basic toiletries. Some larger rooms provide spacious walk-in showers.

The hotel has one restaurant with large windows overlooking the pool, which is open all day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner served buffet style. Breakfast is a mix of the usual hot and cold items, and is always included in the rate. Half-board and full-board plans are also available. There's also a bar with exposed natural rock features. This is where guests can order drinks and snacks to be consumed on a poolside terrace. The outdoor pool is large enough for a swim and has a separate splash area for kids. However, the pool is shaded and can be cold. There's no poolside animation, or spa or fitness facilities. Wi-Fi is free in the public areas.