Hotel Da Aldeia

With its location right next to the action on the Strip, this hotel primarily draws young people who are looking for lively nightlife and budget rates. Although some families do stay here to take advantage of the kids' club and pool, it draws more couples and groups of friends. Given its location and price point, expectations should be kept low -- the hotel is very much a crash pad, despite having resort-style features on paper. Noise is almost constant throughout much of the property, largely owing its location, and the style throughout is mostly dated (despite some rooms having been given a more modern finish). The pool is a popular spot during the day, and the lobby has wicker sofas and chairs where guests can hang out. The hotel has been working on renovations, but there are still areas that need to be refreshed. This place is best for budget-conscious guests who aren't too picky. 

The hotel is located just outside of Albufeira, right on the lively Strip (Avenida Sa Carneiro). A supermarket, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, pubs, a currency exchange, wine shop, medical center, bike rentals, street artists, and the like are in every direction -- in fact, it's a touristy wonderland, if that's your thing. Although the hotel is convenient for taking in the nightlife, the beach is not within an easy walk -- it takes 25 minutes to reach Praia da Oura on foot, or about 10 minutes by car. Albufeira's old town is also a 10-minute drive away. Expect about a 40-minute drive to the Faro Airport.

Rooms here range from outdated and worn to fresh, so guests should check to see what they are getting before committing. Also, pool-view rooms are generally better as the street-view rooms are noisy at all hours. The more modern units feature crisp white linens, large floral-motif artwork, terra-cotta tile floors, and white wall-hung nightstands. Soft blue accents behind the flat-screen TVs, and gray drapery, all give them a pleasing, attractive look. In contrast, many of the other rooms feature old-style bedspreads, outdated textiles, beat-up wooden furniture, and tube TVs. Walls in these rooms are plain white with little or no artwork -- to call them institutional would be a compliment. Bathrooms tell a similar story. Modern units have fresh bathrooms, with white tiling, above-counter sinks, and updated fixtures including rainfall showerheads. Others are well past their prime, with cracked tiling, and water and mildew stains. All bathrooms do have bidets and toiletries in little packets. Hairdryers are provided on request. All rooms have balconies or terraces furnished with plastic chairs and small tables. Views are of the city or the pool. Air-conditioning comes standard, but can be lackluster, and Wi-Fi is free. Suites have a separate living area with a sofa and arm chairs. 

This budget property offers a few basic features. Dining takes place at a buffet restaurant, which gets mixed reviews from previous guests. There's also a bar by the pool with tables and chairs under a shelter, or out in the open. Another bar in the lobby has indoor and outdoor seating, including cushioned wicker sofas and sectionals outside. Live music performs at the bar on select nights. The free-form outdoor pool and a kids pool are surrounded by an expansive deck with lounge chairs and a limited number of umbrellas. There's plenty of sun but not much shade, except at the bar. On-site activities include billiards, foosball, tennis (fee), and mini-golf. However, many of the facilities are in various states of disrepair. The colorful kids' club entertains the little ones with games, toys, and arts and crafts. A library has books for guests to borrow. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, and parking is free except in July and August.