Hotel Solar de Sao Joao (Albufeira, Portugal)

You'd be hard-pressed to find a more convenient spot in Albufeira - the complex is located a very short walk from both the main Strip and beach. You can reach the Old Town in 5 minutes by car, though guests recommend the cute tourist train.

Guests say that the pool is kept well-maintained and clean, and there are plenty of loungers and seating on the surrounding terrace. It's a nice area for children to play too, and you can keep an eye on them while relaxing.

You may think that since it's located just yards from the Strip, there would be lots of street noise. However, the hotel is set back from the road, so noise is limited, and most guests seem to enjoy a quiet stay.

While the apartments are spacious and reasonably comfortable, some guests say that they're outdated and shabby. The beds are pretty basic, and guests who ask for a double room seem to get two single beds pushed together.

In the heat of an Algarve summer, you'll really notice the lack of air con, which might be more of an issue than the lack of Wi-Fi. You can't get either in the apartments, though Wi-Fi is available in some public areas, and you can rent fans.

Guests report having to stump up hefty deposits in addition to payment when they check in. This money is returnable, as long as no damage is done to the room, but it doesn't make for the best start to a holiday.