Be Live Adults Only Marivent

Be Live Adults Only Marivent is so close to the water that modern building codes would have probably required it to be built several hundred meters back. Its location overlooking a sparkling expanse of sea is one of its biggest draws, and yet, it's not as played up as it should be. The hotel's interior -- the lobby, especially -- is minimalist gone wrong. All gray and white, it feels soulless and about as Mediterranean as the interior of a space ship. Electronic music plays in the background, in addition to the sound of the waves. Other areas are more inspiring. The lobby bar, in particular, has big wraparound windows with views of the ocean, letting in plenty of sun and eliciting a bit more cheer. Overall, the ambiance is relaxed -- adults on holiday reading and lounging by the pool, and bussing in and out from central Palma to see the city's main sights. 

Located next door to the Nixe Palace Hotel, the Marivent is in a privileged location overlooking the large sandy beach of Cala Major. It's generally a tourist-friendly area full of shops, restaurants, bars and cafes, though the area directly behind the hotel feels a bit shabby. The bus stop into central Palma is just outside the hotel and the 20-minute ride direct into the center is well worth the trip for a more upscale selection of dining and entertainment options. The Fundacio Pilar I Joan Miro, a museum devoted to the painter, is just a 10-minute walk away. The Palma airport can be reached in less than 15-minutes by taxi. 

The rooms at the Marivent largely conform with the property's overall minimalist theme. Decorated predominantly in white, blue, and gray, they lack personality but not comfort. Beds are plush, pillows are plentiful, and Superior Rooms come with fluffy robes and slippers. Each room has a flat-screen TV; minibars and safes are available for a fee. In each room the bathroom has no door, but is separated from the bedroom by a wall; it is equipped with nice selection of toiletries, a hairdryer, and a large glass shower, but no tub. The water closet is separate and has a lightly frosted glass door that provides a bit of privacy. Superior Rooms have balconies with sea views; Sea View rooms with terraces or balconies are also available. 

The Marivent compensates for its drab lobby with a few other outstanding features, including a sleek dining room with a lovely terrace, and a Xiringuito, or snack bar, where guests can practically dine with their feet in the sand. Food is somewhat pricey for what it is, but the views of the beach are spot-on and all-inclusive packages are available. The pool overlooks the ocean and has a sleek feel to it, though the number of loungers is limited for a hotel of its size. Over in the spa, the outdoor hot tub nook is a peaceful place to unwind, and all of its amenities -- especially the sauna -- look as if they've hardly been used. The fitness room is small and has a limited variety of weights and cardio machines, but is quite attractive with wood floors and natural light. There are some meeting rooms equipped with projectors, and a small gift shop.