Hipotels Marfil Playa

Part of the Spanish Hipotels chain, the Marfil Playa hotel comes in somewhere in the middle of this brand's stock in terms of quality. It's not exactly outdated, but not particularly contemporary either. Greenery dangles from an atrium-like ceiling above the front desk, enlivening the creamy, beige hues of the space, while plants and small trees are scattered about. Elsewhere, seating areas composed of red- and cream-colored floral print sofas and armchairs are paired with glass coffee tables and large modern art pieces on the walls. The hotel's other common areas -- like the restaurant and bar -- are equally pleasant, if a bit dull. The bar is neatly packed with cream-colored chairs clustered around small round tables, with gleaming beige tile and hardwood floors as well as large windows filling the space with light. The buffet restaurant is indistinguishable from those seen in similar properties: a sea of white table linens and wooden chairs fill the large space, with some abstract art pieces adorning the sunny yellow walls. Most guests convene around the large outdoor pool, or head to the nearby beach. The property attracts mostly northern Europeans -- especially Germans and some Brits --seeking a sunny vacation and all-inclusive rates.

The hotel is located in Sa Como, a town on Majorca's eastern coast. There are several other hotels in the immediate area, as well as some shops, bars, and restaurants within a short walk. The bus station is just around the corner, about a minutes' walk away. The nearest beach can be reached in about five minutes on foot. The Castillo de sa Punta de n’Amer can be reached in 25 minutes on foot, or it's a five-minute drive. The famous Drach Caves are about a 15-minute drive from here. Palma's airport is an hour away, while Palma's city center can be reached in a bit over an hour. 

Rooms here are clean and pleasant, if a bit dated decor-wise. Red patterned bed runners and pillows clash with the patterned curtains, while long rectangular pieces of colorful abstract art hang above large white headboards. Simple wooden furnishings include nightstands and work desks, and beige upholstered chairs provide seating. The spaces are full of natural light thanks to large glass doors that lead onto furnished balconies, which overlook the hotel's grounds and surroundings -- some have views of the pool and sea in the distance. 

Rooms aren't particularly spacious and Triple Rooms can feel particularly cramped. Amenities include flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, air-conditioning, minibars, free Wi-Fi, and safes (for an extra charge). Bathrooms are small and covered in outdated white tile with red borders that clashes with the older white-marble sinks. Small shower/tub combos can feel a bit cramped. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided.

The hotel's large freeform outdoor pool is surrounded by a spacious sundeck lined with loungers. Palm-dotted green lawns border the area, providing some shade, and there are umbrellas as well. There's a small kids' pool here too, as well as a poolside bar with tables and chairs. The hotel also offers a small indoor pool. Use of the fitness center and sauna incur an extra charge, as do the tennis and squash courts.

The hotel's buffet restaurant serves local and international fare, though some guests complain that there's isn't much variety on offer. All-inclusive and half-board plans are available. The bar has a stage for evening shows and live music, and the animation team also organizes games and other activities throughout the day. Families are catered to with a kids' club for children ages 4 to 12, as well as an outdoor playground with swings, slides, and other toys. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi throughout the property, bike and car rentals, and airport transfers (for an extra charge).