Villa Europa Hotel

The hotel is situated in one-story buildings arranged around a central courtyard. The well-kept salmon-colored stucco buildings have bright white trim, and brick pathways lead to rooms. There are window boxes and pots filled with flowers and tropical plants to add a little color. The only public space is a little patio area with a grill and seating for cooking and dining alfresco. The white plastic patio furniture is shaded by generously sized orange umbrellas that help create a cheerful vibe. The lovely white sand beach is just across the boardwalk from the hotel, however, and chairs and umbrellas are provided for free. Staffers will even take them down to the beach for guests -- in fact, the warm and attentive service from the owners and staff is a major plus of a stay at this small hotel. Villa Europa is best suited for budget-savvy travelers who want to be close to the beach but don't need much in the way of amenities. Couples and families make up most of the contingent. 

The hotel is located next to the beach and boardwalk and is surrounded by other small hotels. The beach is less than 100 feet away, just across the bike path. The hotel is also within a five- to 10-minute walk, or short bike ride, to a number of restaurants, shops, bars, and entertainment that are about four blocks to the south. Anne Kolb Nature Center is a five-minute drive from the hotel, while the Hollywood Beach Golf and Country Club is less than 10 minutes away by car. Aventura Mall takes 15 minutes to reach by car, and the Port Everglades cruise terminal about 20 minutes. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is about 15 to 20 minutes north of the hotel. Transportation around the area is available on the Hollywood Trolley for a small fee, or guests can use the hotel's bicycles for free. 

The hotel's 18 rooms are divided between Standard Rooms, Studios, and One- or Two-Bedroom Apartments. Standard Rooms have kitchenettes with mini-fridges, microwaves, toasters, coffeemakers, hot plates, and dishes and cutlery. Kitchens in the apartments include ovens and full-size refrigerators, in addition to small appliances and all supplies needed for cooking and dining. Standard Rooms are compact, and come with two twin or one queen bed. Wi-Fi is free in all rooms and all have flat-screen TVs, safes, and air-conditioning. Decor is basic but bright. Floors are tile, and furniture is light- or medium-toned wood, some of which is painted green and quite chipped. The slatted headboards over the beds add a retro vibe that looks attractive in the otherwise simple space. Most everything is white, including walls, drapery, bed coverings, dining chairs, and kitchens. Striped bed runners add a splash of color, and a few black-and-white pictures hang on the walls. Bathrooms are tiny and have showers only along with minimal counter space. Toiletries are provided and hairdryers are available on request. Signs of age and wear and tear are evident, especially around tile floors and showers, which show mildew. Housekeeping comes only once during a one-week stay, though more cleaning is available for a fee.

Even for a small hotel, this property has little in the way of amenities and is best for travelers who like a bit of independence. Guests do have free use of bicycles for getting around the area, and there are laundry facilities on-site. A business desk in the lobby offers computers for guests to use. There's also a grill on the communal patio. Beach umbrellas and chairs are available for free use. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.