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This small hotel has one of the best beach-front locations in Playa, but is falling into disrepair. Unfriendly staff and a reputation for ripping off tourists.
Calle 8 Entre 5 Avenida
Beach
This quiet mediterranean-style retreat is located in one of the best locations in all of Playa, right on the beach and only a short walk from busy 5th Avenida. It's quite inexpensive, but we wouldn't call it a "value" as you'll get what you pay for here: a hotel falling into a state of disrepair staffed by unfriendly locals.
The outside of the hotel is pretty and well-maintained. The common area consists of stone terraces, pools, and ornate Aztec sculptures. There are inlaid Italian tiles in the stairs, terra cotta awnings and overhangs, and generally you can tell that a lot of attention was paid to the smallest details when this hotel was built. And with the Pelicano Inn located directly on the beach, you can't beat the beautiful ocean view.
The beach area is a different story. While owner of the beach chair rental area keeps his area immaculate, the hotel beach is sometimes covered in litter.
Generally you can not expect luxury at the properties in this price range, and the Pelicano Inn is no exception. While there is a restaurant on site and a "massage on the beach" service, that's where the amenities end. The A/C in leaky in a few rooms and the toilets won't flush in others. The shower pressure is sufficient in most rooms, but the water temperature is luke-warm at best. Maid service is said to be very spotty.
Service is a real problem at the Pelicano Inn. The staff was very unfriendly towards us and refused to show us any rooms, but we talked to a number of customers to get the inside scoop. It seems that the hotel has a reputation for switching reservations to less expensive rooms (but not changing the price) and one couple we talked to told us that the staff lost their credit card.
This hotel will appeal to budget-conscious families and perhaps couples (although be warned: there is nothing romantic about the Pelicano!). Those who love the beach and plan on spending most of their time outdoors probably won't be bothered by the hotels lack of services.
Insider Tips
* The Pelicano doesn't provide beach towels, so be sure to bring your own.
* This property has a bed reputation for ripping off tourists. Be sure to get a receipt for everything and pay with a credit card. Do not let the hotel keep your credit card, and do not give them your passport (bring a driver's license instead). Check out early and if you run into any problems, don't hesitate to call the local police to mediate a dispute.
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Reader Reviews
The write up is incorrect. There is NO pool or internet service. Get that...NO pool!
The staff was not helpful and the sesurity guards were sleeping on the job. I couldnt even get a second key for our room.
Editor's Note: You are correct. There is no pool - this was a mistake in our review (which we've corrected). Thanks for your comment!
Posted by: Becky | January 29, 2007 8:08 PM