Marola Portosin

At Marola Portosin, the design is a mix of old, and older, but it works. Dated aspects such as tired linens and upholstery could use a modern refresh, but some of its older features add charm. In the lobby, for instance, there are antique pieces and curios that add interest and character to the space, including intricate, carved-wood furniture, avant-garde sculptures, and ceramic floor vases. The guest rooms and pool bar don't have quite as charming of an aesthetic, but everything is well-maintained and the large pool is a highlight. The simple property draws tourists looking to self-cater.  

A central location can sometimes come with its drawbacks -- busy roads and noise. At Marola Portosin, some guests have had strong complaints about traffic noise, most from those in road-facing rooms. For many, however, the convenience of the hotel's location outweighs the inconvenienceof nighttime noise. Guests have their choice of a few different beaches, all of which are within walking distance. Playa de las Vistas is only 10 minutes away, Playa de los Cristianos is a 16-minute walk, and both Playas de Troya and the famed Playa de las Americas are 24 minutes. There are supermarkets nearby as well, which is ideal for those who want to self-cater, or there are plenty of restaurants and bars in the surrounding area, too. Tenerife South Airport is 18 minutes away by car.

Marola Portosin offers studios up to two-bedroom apartments, all of which are spacious and decorated similarly. All have gray-marble flooring, two-tone light-wood furniture, and colorful details that help liven up the spaces. Bright-blue accent walls have a sponge effect; bedskirts, bed runners, throw pillows, and upholstery are done in teal; and abstract artwork are in shades of blue. The overall style is dated but still pleasant. 

Each room is equipped with a kitchenette housing a mini-fridge, stovetop, coffeemaker, and microwave. A flat-screen TV and furnished balcony are provided, but there's no air-conditioning and a fan, Wi-Fi, and use of the in-room safe will come at an extra charge. Some previous guests noted that Wi-Fi wasn't worth the expense, but the AC was. Bathrooms are clean and well-sized, with floor-to-ceiling marble that give them a more contemporary look. Each has either a walk-in shower or a shower/tub combo, a few bars of free soap, and a hairdryer. 

Outside is undoubtedly the place to be at Marola Portosin, since that's where all the good stuff resides. For a moderately sized hotel, it offers quite a big pool area. There are plenty of sunbeds and straw umbrellas around the pool deck for free, and pool towels are available for a refundable deposit. Guests traveling with children will likely appreciate the sectioned-off shallow area of the pool. 

Previous guests have raved about the hotel's pool bar for its quality snack offerings at reasonable prices. The happy hour specials are a plus, too. Just next to the bar are two pool tables, foosball table, and a giant-sized chess board. Free Wi-Fi is limited to the reception area.