St. Andrews @ Elba Palace Golf & Vital, Caleta de Fuste, Fuerte Ventura, Canary Islands, Spain

We had dinner every evening at St. Andrews at the Elba Palace Golf & Vital, Caleta de Fuste, Fuerteventura, Spain during our stay at this landmark hotel due to having chosen full board wich was spot on. It is the fine dining restaurant.

The restaurant is located at the beautiful courtyard of the hotel and is classic elegant designed throughout.

The Maître d' welcomed us every evening and either let us choose our table or brought us to one, depending how busy St. Andrews was.

We would recommend to come early or from 21.00 hours onwards, because the busiest time was always around 19.30 hours to 20.00 hours.

Our fellow diners were generally older and only a few other couples were younger or our age.

There was also a piano player which played classical tunes which suited the upscale atmosphere of this restaurant.

The cuisine was upscale and a mix of international and Spanish highlights served table de hote.

As guests on full board we could choose any main course from the menu, the vital cuisine or the specials of the day.

Starters and desserts were served buffet style. There were some staples, but there was every day something new, so it didn't get boring at all.

Appetizers included cold cuts, smoked fish, salads, fresh and roasted vegetables, bread and butter and much more.

Main courses were based on international and regional cuisine. We liked the selection of the spa menu, the fish, chicken skewers and the ravioli as special of the day.

There was also a good choice of wine. My fiancé had a dessert wine from Lanzarote, which he enjoyed.

Desserts were wide ranging from fruits to yogurt/cream based desserts to cake and ice cream. The ice cream was self-service.

According to a German diner the only word you must know in German is Schlagsahne (whipped cream). He had caused some stares and after saying this laughs, because he really liked his whipped cream. It was much more than the ice cream.

All the meals were very delicious and enjoyable.

We would look forward to stay again at this beautiful hotel and yes, we would chose full board again, it's worth it.

©2016

GOBO Upstairs @ The Traders by Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Before travelling to Malaysia we reserved a table for two at GOBO Upstairs. It was our second visit to the Traders Hotel by Shangri-La, Kuala Lumpur. During a previous holiday we've been to the SkyBar with stunning views over the PETRONAS Twin Towers.

This time around we decided beforehand we wanted lunch at one of the Traders' restaurants. Studying the menus online we picked GOBO Upstairs. Setting on a date we heard it was a bank holiday in Malaysia and the restaurant hadn't open, so we had to book our reservation for a different day. It wasn't a big problem, because we were flexible. It worked out for our second date.

The interior was modern and had high ceiling windows.

The staff was attentive and friendly.

The polo shirt I was wearing was a talking point.

It was newly bought at the DoubleTree by Hilton (see also review) and since the Traders is a competitor to the DoubleTree it garnered attention.

We were joining GOBO Upstairs during the week for lunch. We weren't the only ones. GOBO was buzzing with a large mixed business group (some were Malay others were Chinese and Thai), a few couples and a lonely business man.

There were different set menus and an a la carte menu available.

We chose a la carte.

Our drinks were a large bottle of Acqua Panna to share, a mango lassi and a Thai Collins Mocktail.

A fresh bread selection was also served.

The main courses were cod and sea bass with a side dish of green asparagus and parmesan cheese for both of us. We love this combination and the flavors. 

The desserts were of course the highlight. The presentation of each dish was done beautifully, but the most interesting was the berry sorbet. It was shaped like a cone. The tiramisu was also very good.

We were happy with the ambience, the staff and the quality of the food. There's is no reason why we shouldn't go back yet again when in Kuala Lumpur.

 ©2014

V'n V @ The Radisson BLU Royal, Golden Lane, Dublin, Ireland

During our stay at the Radisson BLU Royal Dublin (see review) we also had dinner at the V'n V. It was included in our overnight rate.

The restaurant was a bit set off from the rest of the open plan lobby. It
had very high ceilings and interesting chandeliers. They were shaped like huge artistic globes.

The V' n V was as modern as the rest of the hotel. The cuisine reflected it too.

We were greeted warmly and brought to our table. We could choose any seat at the floor to ceiling windows. We overlooked the street and another bustling restaurant the "Buenos Aires Grill".

Soon the menu and wine card arrived. We could choose a three course meal and had to pay only for the drinks and any side dishes.

We chose orange juice and two glasses of rose wine. Tap water was provided for free.

As starter we had the beetroot and cheese salad and the nettle soup, followed by salmon with tapenade and potatoes for both of us and a side salad, consisting of tomatoes and mixed green leaves.

Our dessert was an orange and grapefruit gratin and cafe au lait parfait with dates in a cinnamon sauce.

It was all very delicious, fresh and healthy.

The waiting staff was busy with a large group and a few other couples, but they were always there when we needed them.

We would return anytime to the hotel and the restaurant, plus we enjoyed here our breakfast the next morning, which was outstanding too. Highly recommended.

©2014

Park Hyatt Zurich, Switzerland

When we learned that Hyatt was devaluating their loyalty program Gold Passport we decided to burn our points at the Park Hyatt Zurich for two nights, where we wanted to stay for a longer time, and the hotel was one of the properties which had been devalued since, from 22.000 points a night to 30.000 points a night needed.

We arrived at Zurich Airport with Swiss, which was a great experience. We had more leg room, comfortable seats, a Mediterranean Quiche and chocolate, which was delicious, and in flight entertainment (Mr. Bean and other child friendly programs).

We took the train to Zurich Main Train Station and paid ca. 44 CHF (ca. 36.15 Euro or ca. 50.20 USD) for two 1st class return tickets. From there we had the choice of public transport or taxi. We were looking for a more comfortable and hassle free way, so we took a taxi. It should cost under 20 CHF (ca. 16.45 Euro or ca. 22.82 USD). The journey took around 10 minutes.

At the hotel we were welcomed by the door man and accompanied to reception.

Check in was done quickly, and we were brought to the room by the receptionist. He explained the room features. Our suitcase arrived shortly afterwards.

Our room was large and filled with natural day light. The color scheme was gold, brown and beige.

There was a large king sized bed, a chair with ottoman, coffee table and a writing desk with two chairs.

The headboard was interesting, a canvas with a print of some kind of fruit, maybe olives.

The large flat screen TV provided international channels like Bloomberg, CNN and CNBC, some regional and to our surprise UK channels.

Internet access was free, fast and reliable. We also received a fruit plate, which we liked, because it included an apple, a pear, grapes and a plum.

There were different magazines as well, including the Hyatt and one from the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world, based in Zurich.

Another unusual feature was the "grass". It was part artwork and also part of the night light.

Our room overlooked an apartment building and we could spot the Sheraton Neues Schloss to one corner.

There was also a cupboard and wardrobe, Nespresso Coffee Machine with complimentary capsules and a minibar.

Having a sweet tooth we took the Gottfrieder praline filled wafer. It was very good and cost 7 CHF (ca. 5.80 Euro or 8 USD).

The rest of the mini bar was more or less what one would expect and started from 8 CHF (ca. 6.60 Euro or 9.10 USD).

Free water was also every day provided.

The bath room was large and had a shutter, which could be opened to the room. The bath tub and shower were set up like a Japanese wet room. There was also a large sink, a plant, a TV in the mirror - the remote control didn't work too well, for example going down channels was not possible - and toilet, which could be sealed off with a door. The amenities were by Laura Tonatto. We love the products, knowing them already from our stays at the Park Hyatt Milan. This one was slightly different than the one in Milan and even bath salt and mouth wash was included.

We used the 24 hour room service for our breakfasts and dinners. One time we had the healthy breakfast, the other time a la carte.

The healthy breakfast included Green Tea, a smoothie, a juice of our choice, scrambled eggs with sundried tomatoes, radishes and peppers with guacamole, cream cheese, plain yogurt, jams and fruit bread rolls. One of us has a raisin allergy. Checking with room service confirmed the rolls were made with them, but the Hyatt was flexible in this and one set of the breakfast came with other rolls.

Both breakfasts were excellent. We loved the high quality, tastiness and how appetizing and colorful the meals looked.

Cost for the healthy breakfast was for two 95 CHF (ca. 78 Euro or ca. 107.75 USD) including tip, the a la carte was 110 CHF (ca. 95.40 Euro or ca. 130.45 USD).

Having informed ourselves before the travel we knew that there was a specific cuisine available, developed by a nutritionist, either at The Lounge or through in room dining. Besides The Lounge there are also the fine dining restaurant Parkhuus, Onyx Bar and Cafe Z. The cuisine is divided into three groups Beauty, Brain or Mood food.

Items were available individual or as two or three course meals. We had always a three course and it was not only healthy, but also very tasty and allowed us to eat things we hadn't tried before like Perch Pike or Canadian Bison. Whenever possible the ingredients are sourced locally, so the pike and trout for example came from Lake Zurich.

Our favorites were the veal carpaccio, the trout and vegetable lasagne (this dish has a twist), the bison steak and of course the not so sweet desserts, Lingonberry Cheesecake with grape salad and chocolate mousse with blueberry ice cream.

We paid including drinks and tip between 155 CHF and 165 CHF (ca. 127.25 Euro and ca. 135.45 Euro or ca. 175.80 USD and ca. 187.15 USD)

The hotel also has a spa, the hotel is very good located, just a few blocks from the lake and the Bahnhofstrasse or Old Town.

The Park Hyatt is also famous for their Art Concept. The hotel has a large collection of modern art pieces. They call it classic modern. Some of the artists on display are Sol LeWitt, Heinz Mack and many others.

All the staff encountered was very friendly, but also efficient and knowledgeable. It was nice to have contact with the same people, for example room service was mostly delivered by the same person and the gentleman, who checked us in, took one of our calls and was also there at check out.

Even if the overnight rate is steep, we believe strongly it would be worth paying for.

The comfort of the room is great, the food outstanding and the employees do everything possible to make your stay a memorable one. Should we be in Zurich and not looking for a different experience, we are going to stay again.

©2014

Radisson Royal, Golden Lane, Dublin, Ireland

Normally before a flight from Dublin we stay at the Hilton Dublin Airport or the Holiday Inn Express. This time around our flight to Zurich didn't leave very early, so we were more flexible and decided after long discussions to take the Radisson BLU Royal Hotel, Golden Lane in the city center. We booked a rate that included dinner and breakfast.

The hotel is better located than thought. It is ideal when coming from the airport by Airlink. Get off at College Green/Dame Street stop, walk along Dame Street and turn left into South George Street, follow it until you come to Dunne’s Stores Head Quarters and 747 Travel opposite, turn right. This is Golden Lane. The hotel is a few more minutes away on the right hand side. Walking from the stop to the hotel takes approximately 10 minutes.

St. Patrick's Cathedral is also only about 5 minutes away.

The building is very modern. Originally we thought that the whole house belongs to the Radisson, but only the ground floor and one half of it are in fact the hotel. The other half contains offices.

We were impressed  by the contemporary and airy lobby. The reception was located to the left and check in is done at individual pots. The receptionist was friendly and quick.

During our stay the hotel was very busy with two weddings and a few business meetings. We spotted all two brides.

We enjoyed the chandelier and carpet, because it looked unusual. Interpreting the shape of the design the lightning could be snakes and the carpet a map.

The restaurant V' n V and the Sure Bar were located on the same level.

There were a small business center and meeting rooms on the first floor.

Our room was on the fifth floor overlooking apartments, St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christchurch.

We had a standard room and were happy about the generous size and the beautiful contemporary design. The colors were mostly brown, grey, white and black.

The King bed was comfortable as were the stylish chairs and writing desk.

The coffee table was multifunctional and could be used as another seating space - it was covered in leather - or as an ottoman for the chair.

There were two other marble topped tables and a large flat screen TV. The choice of TV channels was the only disappointment. There were only regional channels available. There wasn't even BBC World, which was the least I expected and Sky News isn't exactly our favorite. Officially there should have been RT, but unfortunately when choosing the channel it showed a black screen and nothing else, no matter when tuning in. Overall, there could be a better line-up of international TV channels here.

There was also a luggage rack and a wardrobe.

24 hour in room dining, coffee/tea making facilities and a mini bar were also available. The prices for the minibar were interesting, ranging between 1.59 Euro to 7.62 Euro (ca. 2.20 USD to 10.60 USD). There were the usual suspects like Coca Cola and Deep River Rock water. We liked the Butler's chocolate bar with Irish Cream filling. We can happily report it was very tasty.

The in room dining is suitable for Coeliac and vegetarians. For some dishes half portions were also an option. Prices were good appetizers started at 6.50 Euro (ca. 9 USD), sandwiches from 12 Euro (ca. 16.65 USD), mains from 12 Euro (ca. 16.65 USD) and desserts from 8.50 Euro (ca. 11.80 USD). Since we had dinner already arranged at the restaurant we didn't use in room dining.

Anyone in need of laundry can avail of that too. The laundry of a shirt costs for example 8 Euro (ca. 11.10 USD).

The bathroom was medium in size. The bath tub and shower were separate. There was a sink with enough storage space for our cosmetics. The amenities were a mix of Anne Semonine and a soap by This Works! Radisson's contract with Anne Semonine is expiring, so This Works! is replacing it. We know This Works! from another hotel. We liked it, so we weren't too surprised (having heard about the exchange) or had any issues with the new amenities. On the other side we are a bit sad to see Anne Semonine go, since we equally liked the quality, smell and effectiveness of the products.

The shower was great with a large rain shower head. The water pressure was strong and the temperature stable.

When placing our wake up call the member of staff offered to order a taxi for us as well. We refused, since we planned to take the Airlink to the airport.

At the V' n V restaurant our reservation was acknowledged and we were offered a choice of tables at the large windows.

Declan Dunne is the Executive Chef. The menu reflected the contemporary ambience of the hotel. Most of the ingredients are sourced locally.

We chose a glass of rose wine and an orange juice. Tap water was offered for free.

Our starters were a beetroot and cheese salad and nettle soup. Both were delicious and unusual.

As main course we both had the salmon and a side salad. The dish was rich, but light at the same time. It was tasteful and the presentation was well done. The salad was made with mixed leaves and tomatoes.

As dessert I had Cafe au lait parfait with dates and cinnamon sauce. It was finger licking good. My fiancé had the Orange and grapefruit Gratin, which was deemed also very tasty.

The staff was very busy with four other couples and a large group. Still the service didn't suffer. One of the three waiters was always on hand when we needed them.

There was also an open kitchen, and I enjoyed watching the chefs.

The meal was delightful, healthy and satisfying. Since a three course were included in our rate we only had to pay for our drinks and the side dish. We paid 25 Euro (ca. 34.65 USD) including tip.

After a good night’s rest and a punctual wake up call we made our way to breakfast.

The buffet was large, fresh and appetizing. There was a wide choice of cold cuts, smoked salmon, smoothies, yogurts, Bircher Berner Muesli, fresh fruits and fruit salad, bread and much more. Another guest wanted to have an omelette. The request was fulfilled with a smile.

Our favorites were the Bircher Berner Muesli and the berry smoothie.

Check out was pleasant and quick.

Would we recommend the Radisson Royal, Golden Lane? Definitely. The reasons?

The Staff is very friendly and attentive.

The dinner and breakfast were excellent.

The lead in room is large, design driven, but comfortable and detailed, like small cushions in different colors or a painting that looks like a photograph.

It's quirky and creative.

The location is great. On the one side far enough from the hustle and bustle; on the other side near enough to reach all major attractions in Dublin by foot.


©2014

A Quinta da Auga, Relais & Chateaux

We had a total of 5 nights in Santiago de Compostela. Thinking we would be quite busy while staying at the AC Palacio del Carmen (see review) we decided to spend the last two relaxing a bit outside of the city at the A Quinta da Auga, Relais & Chateaux. This was our second Relais & Chateaux property. Based on only good experiences with Le St. Paul at St. Paul de Vence, France, we thought it was time to check out another one, this time in Spain.

The A Quinta da Auga dates back to 1792. Originally it was built by Jacobo Perez Villamarin as a paper factory, but it was also used to produce wool clothing, ice and beer. It fell into disrepair until Lorenzo Garcia and his family bought the estate. The architect carrying out the restoration and renovation project was Luisa Garcia Gil.

We took a taxi from the AC to the A Quinta da Auga and paid around 8 Euro (ca. 10.70 USD). The journey took maybe 10 minutes.

It was around 12.30 hours when we arrived. Unfortunately we weren't able to check in early and were advised to come back at 15.00 hours, when the official check in time was and our room would be ready.

We explored the area and checked out where the bus stop for the Number 8 bus into town was. It wasn't easy to spot, because it was at the end of the road and only a no parking sign indicated it. We later saw a bus stopping there.

Having done that we decided to go back to the hotel and have lunch.

We had Ice tea, hot chocolate, cappuccino, ham and cheese sandwiches and watermelon gazpacho.

When we had settled the bill (ca. 25 Euro or ca. 33.40 USD) our room was ready. We were offered an upgrade for 90 Euro (ca. 120 USD) per night to a suite. We didn't take it up, because we were quite happy with our room. It was 10 square meters larger than the standard room at the AC Palacio del Carmen. We received a room at the top floor (5th). It was a mansard room with a window built into the roof and views over the garden and neighborhood. The room was sparsely furnished with a traditional writing desk, two chairs and comfortable twin beds. It was large, but didn't look too empty. We felt immediately at home.

There were wooden floors; the mini bar was free with local water, two bottles of Coca Cola, one orange Fanta and one lemon Fanta. It was restocked daily.

The flat screen TV was small, but moving the chairs from under the window nearer to the TV solved the problem. The only English speaking channel was BBC World.

Storage space in the wardrobe was good. There was also a safe unlike at the AC.

The air condition was centrally operated and sometimes made the room slightly too hot. It didn't bother us too much or we simply opened the window.

The tapestry was interesting. It depicted what life was like in earlier days.

The bathroom was large with a bathtub/shower combination, Relais & Chateaux Ylang Ylang amenities, a bidet, toilet and sink. The bath tub was comfortable and the water pressure was good.

The hotel has a restaurant called Filigrana, a social lounge and the Q Cafe. There is also a new wing with fitness center, hydrothermal facilities including swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, ice fountain and steam bath. There is also a spa, offering facials, massages, body treatments, manicure, pedicure, hair care and yoga lessons. Massage treatments start from 30 minutes and cost 40 Euro (ca. 53.40 USD) to 90 minutes for 115 Euro (ca. 153.35 USD).

There are also packages available ranging from 110 minutes to 5 days.

Use of the Flotarium costs 22 Euro for 20 minutes (ca. 29.40 USD); yoga lessons start at 90 Euro (ca. 120 USD) for 90 minutes.

We enjoyed spending time on our room, going to the Q Cafe or walking in the grounds.

The gardens were very beautiful. There were different flowers, fountains tinkling and a waterfall. The hotel recommends also walks ranging from twenty to forty five minutes.

The hotel was detailed. The social lounge had old photographs of what the hotel looked like before the renovation, which famous guests had visited and other artwork. Each seating area was different with plush sofas, comfortable armchairs and an open fire.

Another detail were flowers and plants in the bedroom and bathroom or that the flowers and the outdoor chairs were in matching colors - an intense red.

There were nooks and crannies to explore on every floor and art work everywhere.

Even the elevators look not functional. They have prints depicting the paper making process.

Since we had time I choose a 30 minutes deep tissue massage.

The spa was airy and light. The original building and the new wing are connected indoors, so there is no reason to go outside. The staff was very friendly and concerned if the treatment had been to my liking. The changing room was empty and I had my own locker, containing a bath robe, panty and slippers. There were also showers and toilets.

The treatment was relaxing and eased my tensions. This massage didn't make me as sore as previous ones. It was as good, though.

At the Q Cafe we tried different smoothies and juices, local wine and coffee liquor, pasta salad, peppers filled with cod, frozen yogurt and raspberries, Santiago Cake and much more.

Breakfast was served buffet style every day at the Filigrana Restaurant. It was small, but had everything one could need from cold cuts and smoked salmon to cheese to yogurt, fruit salad, scrambled eggs - other egg dishes could be made a la carte -, pastries and much more. The space was a bit small and when it was busy, it could get tight. Restocking wasn't an issue. There was only one juice - orange. The flavor was outstanding and everyone had at least two glasses. The salmon was the softest I've ever had.

We had a funny incident with Housekeeping. It was afternoon. We had returned from our walk and saw that the maids were on our floor making up rooms. They hadn't arrived at our room, so we were prepared for their visit. The maid knocked, shouted something in Spanish and opened the door immediately. If we had been in an indiscriminating situation it could have gotten embarrassing, so the young lady was a bit surprised somebody was on the room. She asked a colleague to help her. The room was cleaned and the bed was made very quickly.

All the staff encountered was friendly, efficient and warm.

Way too soon we had to leave for our next destination Barcelona.

Check out was done quickly, a taxi was ordered for us and the "bible" - the 2013 Relais & Chateaux catalogue in English was given to us as a good bye present. On the room we only had the actual version in Spanish, so this was a nice touch.
Donations to UNICEF are also encouraged.

We can recommend the A Quinta da Auga to couples and families with older children, who are looking for a quirky property that is romantic and off the beaten track with personalized services and attentive staff.

We are missing the property already and are definitely going to return, when we are in the area.

©2013

AC Palacio Del Carmen, Autograph Collection

Sorry for so long nothing publishing. My better half and I have just returned from holiday. A few more reviews are going to follow. Hope you enjoy our hotel adventures as much as we did. Happy Travels!

We planned a small travel itiniery in Spain and Italy. Our first stop was Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia in the Northwest of Spain. We arrived from Dublin by Aer Lingus. We tried the new pre-order meal option. There is a choice of Irish breakfast, chicken or beef salad. We both had the chicken salad. The process worked flawless and the salad was delicious. The cost was 7.50 Euro (ca. 10 USD) per person and included a hot drink, like coffee or tea. The flight was pleasant and eventless.

We had informed ourselves about public transport and decided to take the bus operated by Empresa Freire to Praza da Galicia. The journey took about 45 minutes. A single ticket costs 3 Euro (ca. 4 USD), a return ticket 5.10 Euro (ca. 6.80 USD) per person.
We had a map with us and thought the AC Palacio del Carmen, an Autograph Collection property, was easy to locate. It proofed a bit more difficult than thought. We asked locals for directions. They were helpful, but unfortunately spoke only Spanish. Mine is non existent. We finally found someone, who spoke English. She directed us correctly and within five minutes we arrived at the Palacio del Carmen.
It nestles in a residential area on the outskirts of Santiago's city center.

The hotel is located in a former 15th century convent. In the two original buildings are the reception and small lobby with an internet corner, the bar, fine dining restaurant and meeting rooms located. There is also a new wing with additional rooms. Besides meeting facilities there is also a beautiful fairly large garden, indoor swimming pool, spa and a very small fitness center.

The check in was pleasant and conducted in German. The receptionist Karel is from Prague and spoke fluent German. My better half and I have forgotten most of it, since we have been very rarely back to our home country and speak mostly English with each other since we live in Ireland for nearly fourteen years. We were promised a big bed and were very happy about our comfortable king.
The room was located in one of the original buildings.
Each floor is glassed in, airconditioned and a bridge leads to each room.
The entrance category room was simple, but elegant and comfortable.
There were wooden floors and beams, the large bed, a luggage rack, medium sized TV, a large wardrobe and a writing desk. The colors were different shades of brown, beige and ocre. Our view was over the peaceful garden.
One night there was a wedding party and for a moment we feared we would be disturbed by the noise, but the soundproofing was good, so we heard nothing. The room's location guaranteed a restful sleep. It was really quiet.
The bath room was medium sized with a sink, Palacio del Carmen own branded amenities, a comfortable bath tub and shower combination, a bidet and toilet.
The bath tub was wide and not very high, making it easy to get in and out.
The mini bar contained orange and pineapple juice, Mondariz water, Nordic Mist, Coca Cola and Coca Cola Light and San Miguel beer (with and without alcohol). Prices were reasonable. The water cost 1.50 Euro, ca. 2 USD, the rest 2.50 Euro, ca. 3.35 USD.
TV channels were dominantely local. There was BBC World, RT and CNBC.
The air condition was easy to use. It kept up with the heat and worked fast and efficient.
The lightning was mellow, but added to the atmosphere.
24 hour room service was also available.

We planned a small travel itenary in Spain and Italy. Our first stop was Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia in the Northwest of Spain. We arrived from Dublin by Aer Lingus. We tried the new pre-order meal option. There is a choice of Irish breakfast, chicken or beef salad. We both had the chicken salad. The process worked flawless and the salad was delicious. The cost was 7.50 Euro (ca. 10 USD) per person and included a hot drink, like coffee or tea. The flight was pleasant and eventless.

We had informed ourselves about public transport and decided to take the bus operated by Empresa Freire to Praza da Galicia. The journey took about 45 minutes. A single ticket costs 3 Euro (ca. 4 USD), a return ticket 5.10 Euro (ca. 6.80 USD) per person.
We had a map with us and thought the AC Palacio del Carmen, an Autograph Collection property, was easy to locate. It proofed a bit more difficult than thought. We asked locals for directions. They were helpful, but unfortunately spoke only Spanish. Mine is non existent. We finally found someone, who spoke English. She directed us correctly and within five minutes we arrived at the Palacio del Carmen.
It nestles in a residential area on the outskirts of Santiago's city center.

The hotel is located in a former 15th century convent. In the two original buildings are the reception and small lobby with an internet corner, the bar, fine dining restaurant and meeting rooms located. There is also a new wing with additional rooms. Besides meeting facilities there is also a beautiful fairly large garden, indoor swimming pool, spa and a very small fitness center.

The check in was pleasant and conducted in German. The receptionist Karel is from Prague and spoke fluent German. My better half and I have forgotten most of it, since we have been very rarely back to our home country and speak mostly English with each other since we live in Ireland for nearly fourteen years. We were promised a big bed and were very happy about our comfortable king.
The room was located in one of the original buildings.
Each floor is glassed in, air conditioned and a bridge leads to each room.
The entrance category room was simple, but elegant and comfortable.
There were wooden floors and beams, the large bed, a luggage rack, medium sized TV, a large wardrobe and a writing desk. The colors were different shades of brown, beige and ochre. Our view was over the peaceful garden.
One night there was a wedding party and for a moment we feared we would be disturbed by the noise, but the soundproofing was good, so we heard nothing. The room's location guaranteed a restful sleep. It was really quiet.
The bath room was medium sized with a sink, Palacio del Carmen own branded amenities, a comfortable bath tub and shower combination, a bidet and toilet.
The bath tub was wide and not very high, making it easy to get in and out.
The mini bar contained orange and pineapple juice, Mondariz water, Nordic Mist, Coca Cola and Coca Cola Light and San Miguel beer (with and without alcohol). Prices were reasonable. The water cost 1.50 Euro, ca. 2 USD, the rest 2.50 Euro, ca. 3.35 USD.
TV channels were dominantly local. There was BBC World, RT and CNBC.
The air condition was easy to use. It kept up with the heat and worked fast and efficient.
The lightning was mellow, but added to the atmosphere.
24 hour room service was also available.

We went twice to the bar. There are nineteen dishes to choose from. A small selection is available during general opening hours, a larger between 13.30 hours and 15.30 hours and 21.00 hours to 23.00 hours.
We had refreshing sangria, chicken salad with cherry tomatoes and sherry vinaigrette, fresh tomato and tuna salad, Iberian ham in a bread roll with parmesan cheese and dried tomatoes and a seasonal fruit plate with green and watermelon, red grapes, kiwi and pineapple.
All was tasty, fresh and healthy.
Prices were reasonable again. We paid 29.60 Euro (ca. 39.30 USD) and 35.20 Euro (46.70 USD) respectively.

Breakfast was included in our rate. It was every day in the former chapel. It can be also used a meeting room.
The room is beautiful with a large mosaic depicting the Archangel Gabriel visiting Mary to tell her she is going to give birth to Jesus.
The windows are high up, letting in the light in an unusual way. The plays between shadow and light are beautiful.
Tea, coffee, hot chocolate and juice are self service based. There are a Nespresso Coffee machine and three differently colored capsules (red, green and black) available. The colors indicate the strength of the coffee. Red is de-caffeinated, green normal and black strong.  I had the last two and enjoyed them. They are smooth and have intense flavors as it is expected from Nespresso.
The buffet contains the continental breakfast, while egg dishes can be ordered a la carte and don't incur an additional charge. We tried the scrambled and baked eggs and French omelet.
Juices on offer were orange, pineapple, peach and raspberry.
The buffet is small, but has everything one could want beside fish. There are cold cuts, cheese, pastries, bread, Tortilla Espanola including condiments, jam, different types of cereal and much more.

All staff was warm, helpful and efficient.

The memories we took home are about a very different place. It's romantic, peaceful and tranquil. It can be as near to the action as you like, though. When you know your way around, you can reach the Cathedral and Old Town within ten minutes walk.

It's definitely on our return list.

©2013