Gijon's Hidden Gem: Hotel Alcomar's Unbelievable Secret!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to spill the beans on Gijon's… well, you guessed it… Hidden Gem: Hotel Alcomar's Unbelievable Secret! And trust me, it lives up to the hype. Now, I'm no travel blogger with perfect grammar or filtered Instagram pics (I’m more of a “spilled coffee on my laptop” kinda gal), but I AM a seeker of amazing experiences, and this place? It's got 'em.
First things first: Accessibility. (SEO KEYWORD ALERT!) I'm talking about, is it actually accessible? Hotel Alcomar does a decent job. They've got an elevator, which is a lifesaver if you're lugging around suitcases (or, you know, just feeling lazy like me). I didn't personally need a wheelchair-accessible room, but I did spot some facilities for disabled guests. They're trying! I always appreciate that effort. The exterior corridor is fine, nothing groundbreaking, but it does the job.
Cleanliness & Safety: The "Did I Survive My Trip?" Test
Okay, let's be honest. The world's a bit… germy these days. Alcomar, however, is on it. Major props for their anti-viral cleaning products and daily disinfection in common areas. They've got hand sanitizer everywhere! They’re not playing around. Every room is sanitized between stays, and they even give you the room sanitization opt-out (if you like living dangerously I guess?). The staff is trained in safety protocol, and I saw them diligently cleaning. They’ve got hygiene certification. Feeling safer already. They have sterilizing equipment. I saw professional-grade sanitizing services in the lobby, which eased my mind! They also have the basics, like a first aid kit and a doctor/nurse on call, just in case. Seriously, they're even providing individually-wrapped food options, so your breakfast isn't a germy free-for-all. They go the extra distance.
Rooms: Cozy Comforts, Plus Wi-Fi! (Hallelujah!)
Alright, the rooms. They're comfy. I’d probably give them a solid 7 out of 10, which is better than some hotels I’ve stayed in, where the ceiling fan threatened to detach and brain me in my sleep. You can request a non-smoking room which is a must for me. My room had air conditioning, a godsend after all the walking around Gijon. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! (SEO KEYWORD! Did I mention FREE WI-FI?) I could stream Netflix, Instagram, and even that embarrassing cat video I’m obsessed with. They also throw down Internet access – LAN if you're old school. They have Internet access – wireless if you're not. They also have a thing for Internet services. They provide free bottled water. My room had a desk, which was good for me because I had to answer an important email or two. The bed was a dream, and I passed out the moment my head hit the pillow. They had blackout curtains, which are essential for a good night's sleep, especially if you're fighting that jetlag. I was able to open the window that opens if I wanted some fresh air. Mine had a safe box. They provided bathrobes, slippers, complimentary tea, and other toiletries. They have daily housekeeping (thank god!) and linens.
The Unbelievable Secret… The Spa! (OMG!)
Now, here’s where the "Unbelievable Secret" comes in. They have a Spa/sauna! And let me tell you, after traipsing all over Gijon, that sauna was pure bliss. But it's more than just a sauna; they've got the full shebang: a steamroom, massage (omg, get the massage!), a body wrap, and a body scrub. And the best part? The pool with a view! Seriously, sipping a cocktail in the poolside bar while staring at the sea… chef's kiss. If you're into fitness, they’ve also got a fitness center and a gym/fitness (basically, a machine room to remind you of your exercise failures). They also have a foot bath. It's hard to describe the feeling of a perfect massage and a relaxing soak. I could have stayed there for days.
Dining, Drinking, & Snacking: Because a Girl Needs Fuel
Okay, food. Let’s talk food. First of all, they offer room service [24-hour]. Thank. God. I live off room service. They have restaurants, a snack bar, and a coffee shop. They offer a breakfast [buffet] (which is what you expect), a breakfast service (which is pretty nice), and an Asian breakfast. I’m a sucker for Asian cuisines in a restaurant, so I went for it. They offer an a la carte in restaurant selection. They have a bar, where I took advantage of the happy hour options. They have desserts in restaurants. I am obsessed with desserts. They also offer salad in a restaurant and soup in a restaurant. My favorite part? They had a vegetarian restaurant. They also have both international cuisine in a restaurant and Western cuisine in a restaurant. They will offer you a bottle of water! They also have food delivery! They also provide an alternative meal arrangement. They even have coffee/tea in a restaurant.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Beyond the Pool
Gijon is amazing in itself! There’s loads to do. You can take a walk around the coast. The hotel has some ways to relax, obviously. They have a terrace! If you're there with a partner, they even have the option for a couple's room or a proposal spot.
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
This place is all about the little perks. They have a doorman, concierge, and daily housekeeping (hallelujah, again!). They offer dry cleaning, laundry service, and ironing service. They’ve got a convenience store. They even provide facilities for disabled guests, which is a big plus. They offer luggage storage. They have an elevator. They can also arrange airport transfer or a taxi service. They have car park [free of charge]! They can provide cash withdrawal facilities. They also have a currency exchange service. They provide essential condiments.
The "Unbelievable Secret" – My Experience
Honestly? Going back in time, I'd book two massages. The best part was escaping! After a busy day of exploring, I would escape to the sauna/spa. That place is a dream. And the pool with a view is worth the price of admission alone. I'm a natural worrier, and the cleanliness made me breathe easier. Everything felt… serene.
The "Unbelievable Secret" – The Quirks & Imperfections
Okay, it wasn't perfect. The décor is a little dated in some areas, but let's be real, who cares when you're sprawled in a bathrobe, getting a massage? I also had a tiny issue with the Wi-Fi dropping out once or twice, but it was quickly resolved. And the staff? I’m bad with names, but they were all so kind and helpful! They also have meetings and some business facilities. I won’t complain.
For the Kids:
They have babysitting service, which is good if you have kids. They also have family/child friendly amenities.
SEO-Friendly Booking Offer: Get Ready to Relax and Discover Gijon!
(ARE YOU READY FOR THIS?!)
Escape to Hotel Alcomar and Uncover Gijon's Hidden Gem!
Tired of the same old vacation? Craving a getaway that combines relaxation, adventure, and a touch of luxury? Look no further than Hotel Alcomar in Gijon, Spain!
Why Choose Hotel Alcomar?
- Unbelievable Spa Experience: Melt away stress in our luxurious spa, complete with a sauna, steam room, massage, and a stunning pool with views. (SEO KEYWORD: "Spa, Sauna, Massage, Pool with a view")
- Perfectly Clean & Safe: Rest assured knowing that we prioritize your well-being with state-of-the-art cleaning protocols and hygiene certifications. (SEO KEYWORD: "Clean, hygiene, safety, sanitized")
- Comfortable & Connected Rooms: Enjoy free Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms, and all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay. (SEO KEYWORD: "Free Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms")
- Delicious Dining: Savor a variety of culinary delights, from international cuisine to local favorites, all within easy reach. (SEO KEYWORD: "Restaurants, International Cuisine")
- **Explore Gijon's
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your sanitized, perfectly-planned travel itinerary. This is the raw, unfiltered experience of yours truly at Hotel Alcomar in Gijón, Spain. Prepare for a rollercoaster of tapas, questionable decisions, and probably a few existential crises thrown in for good measure. Here we go…
The "Sort of" Schedule: A Gijón Gauntlet
Day 1: Arrival & Asturian Assimilation (Or Attempted Assimilation)
10:00 AM (ish): Arrival at Asturias Airport (OVD). Let's be honest, "ish" is the operative word. I swear, that EasyJet flight felt like a cattle car. The woman next to me was clipping her toenails. Toenails! On a plane! Anyway, made it. Glorious, rainy Asturias.
11:00 AM: Taxi to Hotel Alcomar. The drive was… interesting. The driver, bless his heart, kept trying to make small talk in rapid-fire Spanish. My Spanish is rusty, bordering on non-existent. Mostly involved frantic nodding and the occasional, "¡Si! ¡Muy bien!" I think he thought I was a seasoned expert on Asturian history. I am not. I am a tourist, adrift in a sea of "¡Hola!" and garlic smells.
12:00 PM: Hotel Alcomar Check-in. The hotel itself? Clean. Functional. A little… beige. But the view? BAM! Ocean. Gorgeous, grey, windswept ocean. Okay, I can work with this. The receptionist, a young woman with a severe ponytail and eyes that seemed to have seen everything, barely cracked a smile. I instantly understood she was judging my luggage (a suspiciously large duffel bag and a backpack that probably weighed more than I do).
1:00 PM: Lunch: Attempted Tapas Tour, Round 1. Found a restaurant near the Plaza Mayor. Ordered what looked like… stuff. "Patatas bravas", they said. They ARE not the same as British chips, I can tell you that. I swear the waiter kept snickering slightly. "¡Otra cerveza!" I managed to blurt out. The beer was cold. The food was… a learning experience. My stomach is now rumbling.
3:00 PM (ish): Wandering the Streets. Gijón is a city of narrow, cobbled streets. Got gloriously, wonderfully lost. Found a tiny bakery overflowing with empanadas. Ate a few (okay, three), and felt a wave of pure, unadulterated happiness. Briefly considered staying in that bakery forever. Then realized I would run out of money. And empanadas.
6:00 PM: Beach Walk. The beach, Playa de San Lorenzo, is legendary. Stretches for miles, perfect for a lung-bursting walk. The waves are crashing, spraying my face, and I feel the urge to throw my arms out and twirl, but I don't know if it's the right thing to do. Anyway, the air smelled like salty freedom, a welcome change from the London smog.
8:00 PM: Dinner: Another Tapas attempt! This time, I went for a tapas place the receptionist had pointed me toward. It was packed, the noise was insane, and I felt utterly out of my depth. Ordered "Pulpo a la Gallega". The taste? Weird! the texture? Not what I had expected. Halfway through pulling a face because I wasn't sure if this was heaven or hell. Gave up. Went back to the hotel room.
9:30 PM: Hotel Shenanigans: Got a glimpse of the TV, it was locked on a Spanish channel, and I don't know how to change it. Then I figured out the air conditioning… and promptly set the temperature on a setting that was cold. Oh dear… I think I'm already getting a cold.
Day 2: Culture Shock and Cider Dreams
9:00 AM (ish): Wake up with a stuffy nose. Curse the cold. Breakfast at the hotel. Standard fare, but for the first time since arrival, I'm grateful for the familiar.
10:00 AM: Aquarium of Gijón. I'm not usually a "fish person," but this place was surprisingly calming. Watched the sharks glide by, and for a few (blissful) moments, forgot about the impending doom of having to order food later.
12:00 PM: Cider Tour! A bus tour to the sidrerías. This is where things take a turn for the glorious. Sidra is the Asturian cider, a fiercely regional drink. The waiters hold the bottle high above their head and pour it gracefully into your glass from the shoulder. You're supposed to drink it in one long gulp. I spilled half of all the sidra. Very embarrassing. Felt myself getting a lovely buzz.
1:00 PM-4:00 PM: Sidra! And… the food. Oh, the food. I went on my own, finding a sidrería that looked the least intimidating. This is where the magic happened. Grilled chorizo, fabada (a bean stew that could cure all ills), and… the sidra. Ordered another jug. Got told off by the waiter for spilling again, even though it was the fourth jug… The world became a blur of clinking glasses, booming laughter, and a newfound appreciation for the simple joys of life. This part of the day was a highlight!
5:00 PM: Trying to Walk Home, Failed. I had a terrible sense of direction, and I was drunk on cider. Got help from a nice lady with a poodle, even though my Spanish was even worse now. Fell in the streets. And promptly forgot until I went back to the hotel.
7:00 PM: Nap, then Dinner in my room, I am getting the worst cold of my life. Just noodles, and paracetamol and a can of coke.
8:30 PM: Watching the rain, and feeling happy that I have a bed!
Day 3: Farewell, Gijón? (And the Fear of Spanish Food)
9:00 AM: Woke up with a headache, and now have a horrible cold. Maybe the sidra wasn't such a good idea. Should have had the paracetamol before the beer.
10:00 AM: Tried to leave the hotel, couldn't. Still feeling awful. Went back to bed.
12:00 PM: Tried again. Decided to walk around the docks. Couldn't. The thought of any food was awful.
1:00 PM: Packed my suitcase, and booked a taxi. Time to go home.
2:00 PM: Taxi to the airport. More chaotic Spanish conversations. I just nodded and smiled.
3:00 PM: Check-in. Flight. Goodbye Gijón.
5:30 PM: Back home. I have a cold.
Final Thoughts:
Hotel Alcomar? Fine. Gijón? Incredible, messy, delicious. Spain? I'm not sure I'm ready for it emotionally. I'll return. Eventually. Maybe armed with a phrasebook and a stronger tolerance for weird food. Until then, I'll be nursing this cold and dreaming of that damn sidra.
QOYA Hotel Curitiba: Hilton's Hidden Gem? Unbelievable Luxury Awaits!
Hotel Alcomar's "Secret" – Okay, Let's Talk About This! (Because I NEED to)
What's this "Unbelievable Secret" everyone's blabbering about? Is it like, actual gold bars?
Okay, okay, settle down. No gold bars. Though, honestly, after my stay, I wouldn't be surprised. The "secret" is this: the Alcomar, in the heart of Gijón, isn't some sleek, sterile hotel. It's... well, it's got a soul. And that soul? It's the VIEW. And maybe, just *maybe*, the staff. They’re less staff, more like fiercely protective parents of this slightly-faded, absolutely-charming beauty.
Seriously, the first time I walked into my room and looked out the window – I almost cried. I'm not even kidding. The Bay of Biscay, shimmering, practically *begging* you to dive in... It's a postcard come to life. A ridiculously good postcard.
So, the view is good. Big deal. What else makes this hotel special? I'm demanding specifics!
Alright, alright, Mr. Demanding! Let's break it down. The View, obviously, is the star. But the Supporting Cast is also stellar.
- The Location: Yeah, it's *right there*, like practically kissing the beach! You can roll out of bed, stumble down the stairs and you're practically in the sand. Forget the gym, your daily exercise is just the walk to the best coffee shop. (More on that later....)
- The Vibe: It's not pretentious. It's not sleek. It's… real. Slightly worn around the edges, maybe? Like a favorite leather jacket. Comfortable. Inviting. You can lounge around in your pajamas and nobody's going to judge. They'd probably offer you a coffee.
- The Staff: Okay, here's where things get personal. Señora Elena, the woman at the reception... she's a *force*. She knows EVERYTHING. Best tapas? She'll tell you. Secret beach access? She's your hook-up. And she has a way of making you feel like you're the only guest she has. A true gem !
Look, it's a place that feels *lived-in*, which is refreshing. And look, I'm not a hotel snob by any means, but this is a hotel I'd literally *live* in, if given the option.
Okay, the staff sounds nice. But the rooms... are they actually *clean*? I’m a germaphobe, you know.
Alright, germaphobe friend, I get it. Cleanliness is paramount. I wouldn't say the Alcomar is a surgical theatre, okay? Like, you're not going to find everything perfectly clinically scrubbed. But it's *clean*. Spotlessly clean. The sheets smell fresh, the bathrooms are tidy and the cleaning staff are relentless -- and incredibly friendly too.
I will say... my room was a little… simple. A bit dated, for sure. But the bed was comfortable. The view, again, trumped everything. And honestly? After a day of exploring Gijón, you just want a comfy place to collapse, right?
Besides, you're not there to stare at the grout lines, are you?!
Let’s talk about that breakfast. Is it a sad continental affair, or… something more?
Okay, breakfast. Here's the thing: breakfast is *not* a Michelin-starred experience. It's not a buffet overflowing with gourmet delights. However: it's included. It's enough. It gets the job done. More importantly: it provides *fuel* for a day of exploring. You'll find coffee, juice, bread, ham, cheese, and... okay, usually, the same things every morning.
But here's a secret: The Alcomar is near some *amazing* cafes. Seriously. I stumbled upon this tiny place called "El Rincon de la Abuela," it's only 5-minutes walk, where the owner practically makes the most perfect coffee and toast with real tomato and olive oil I've ever tasted. *That's* where you go for breakfast, afterwards. Trust me. Ditch the hotel breakfast after the first day, you won't regret it.
The location is great, you said. But is it noisy? I need my beauty sleep!
Well, yes, and no. You're in a lively part of town, so you're going to hear *some* noises. The seagulls, first of all -- they're relentless. They are the soundtrack to Gijón mornings. And sometimes, the street below can get… energetic, especially on weekends.
But I'm a light sleeper, and I managed. Maybe it's the soothing sound of the waves that just makes it all okay. Actually, the hotel provided earplugs, so... well, they thought that was necessary for a reason. If you *absolutely* need silence, maybe this isn't the place. But if you want to be right *in* the action, with a view to die for, then the slight noise is a small price to pay.
Plus, the windows are decent. Honestly, it added to the charm. It was part of the whole experience. You're in Gijón, people! Embrace the chaos!
Any deal-breakers? Should I avoid the Alcomar?
Look, it's not for everyone. If you need a five-star luxury experience, a pristine, ultra-modern aesthetic, or absolute silence, then the Alcomar probably isn't your jam.
If you're looking for something authentic, charming, friendly, and with a view that will *genuinely* blow you away, then... book it. Seriously, just do it. I'd return to it myself in a heartbeat.
Oh, and one last thing: try a bottle of the local cider. You're welcome!
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