Nerja's Hidden Gem: APARTMENT PLAZA SPAIN - Your Dream Vacation Awaits!
Nerja's Hidden Gem: APARTMENT PLAZA SPAIN - Is This Paradise or Just a Really, Really Nice Apartment? Let's Find Out! (A Messy Review)
Okay, so, I just got back from Nerja. And wow. Think sun, sangria, and the kind of laid-back vibes that make you question your commitment to the whole "adulting" thing. And at the heart of it (or at least, a very convenient walk away from everything awesome) was APARTMENT PLAZA SPAIN. They call it a "Hidden Gem," so, naturally, I had to check it out. And let's be real, a review like this needs to be honest. So brace yourselves.
First Impressions & Accessibility: The Good, The "Huh…", and The "Oh, Right. Still Good."
Right off the bat, getting there was a breeze. Okay, I'm being dramatic. The airport transfer was smooth (thank god for those pre-booked services!). Look, finding the place itself was easy. It's close to the action – the Balcón de Europa, the beaches, all the tapas bars you can shake a stick at. Win. Accessibility? Well, that's where things get…interesting. They claim to have facilities for disabled guests. The website says "elevator." I didn't see a ton of reviews on this specifically so I found myself wondering, hmmm, if its truly accessible. Honestly, though, I didn't actually need any accessibility features myself, so I didn't investigate it in a lot of details, but I'd reach out to them to make sure it meets your specific needs given that the website mentions it. It's worth noting, though, there's a 24-hour front desk.
Rooms & Creature Comforts: Air Con FTW & Does This Bed Have a Magic Carpet?
Okay, let's talk rooms. My apartment? Gorgeous. I mean, seriously, a solid 9/10 on the "I want to live here" scale. Air conditioning - YES! It was a lifesaver. We spent a lot of time out by the pool but coming in from a long day was fantastic. The rooms are spacious. They have air conditioning - huge win. Oh, and the free Wi-Fi? Solid. I could stream, work (ugh), and stalk my ex (kidding…mostly). The Internet [LAN] option is also there if you're feeling extra secure, or very, very techy. My favorite? The extra-long bed. Seriously, I'm a short person, and I could have rolled around for days in that thing! Towels, toiletries, bathrobes, slippers… All the basics. The mini-bar was stocked – I, uh, may have indulged a little too much.
Cleanliness & Safety: Did They Actually Kill the Germs?
Look, I’m a clean freak. Full disclosure. I can't relax unless I believe the space is clean and safe. And APARTMENT PLAZA SPAIN knocks this one out of the park. Daily housekeeping, check. Room sanitization? Apparently, it's a thing. They are really on top of this, they have really gone to great lengths! All the proper things are in place to help put my mind at ease. Anti-viral cleaning products, hand sanitizer everywhere, individually-wrapped food options if you want them… They really are going the extra mile to make sure you feel safe.. They have things like a safe dining setup - which meant I could dig in and still feel safe, which is great. I did not feel uncomfortable or unsafe. This is important to me, and to be honest, it's a big deal, especially post-COVID.
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry (Or at Least, Well-Fed): Is the Food Actually Worth the Price?
Right, this is the part where I get critical. They have a restaurant. And a poolside bar (essential!). Then there's the snack bar. Plenty of options. Okay, so, here's the thing. The food? It’s good. Nothing award-winning, but perfectly acceptable. The coffee/tea in the restaurant was spot on. The cocktails at the poolside bar? Delicious. The happy hour deals? Let's just say my credit card got a workout. The breakfast buffet was pretty average, with continental and western options. Nothing terribly exciting, but perfectly fine. Honestly, I spent more time in the local tapas bars. I did not see a vegetarian restaurant at the hotel, though.
Things to Do (Besides Napping and Looking at the Ocean): Activities & Relaxation
This is where APARTMENT PLAZA SPAIN really shines. The swimming pool [outdoor]? Amazing, with a view, seriously. There is a pool with a view! The sun loungers were comfy, and the atmosphere was pure relaxation. Plus, they offer spa services! Yep. I went for a massage and a body wrap. Guys, I'm not exaggerating when I say I felt like a new person. I wish I'd done the sauna and the steamroom, but there's only so much relaxation one can handle in a week! They also have a fitness center, I didn’t use it. This is a vacation, after all.
Also, the Car park [free of charge] was very handy!
Services & Conveniences: Does This Place Have Everything?!
They also have a concierge, currency exchange, daily housekeeping, doorman, dry cleaning, laundry service, luggage storage, a gift shop. Basically, everything you need to avoid actually leaving the property. Although, that'd be a crime in Nerja. Honestly, it's all very efficient. Not overly friendly, but efficient.
The (Slightly Rambling) Conclusion: Book It. Seriously.
Okay, here's the deal. APARTMENT PLAZA SPAIN isn’t perfect. But it's pretty darn close. It’s clean, comfortable, and in an amazing location. The staff are helpful, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the spa… well, let’s just say I’m already planning my return trip.
So, should you book it? YES. Absolutely YES. Especially if you want a relaxing, hassle-free vacation in Nerja.
My Opinionated Offer: Nerja Dreamin' Package - Because You Deserve It!
Book your stay at APARTMENT PLAZA SPAIN now and get:
- 15% off your booking!
- FREE upgrade to a sea view apartment (subject to availability – but hey, it's worth a shot!).
- Complimentary bottle of Cava on arrival (because, vacation!).
- A free massage for one at the on-site spa!
Plus, rest assured knowing that APARTMENT PLAZA SPAIN prioritizes your safety and well-being with their top-notch hygiene and safety protocols.
Don't miss out on this amazing offer. Book your Nerja escape today! Seriously, I’m already jealous.
(Disclaimer: My opinions are my own, and I may or may not have sampled a generous amount of sangria during my stay. You've been warned!)
Escape to Paradise: Your Dream Orange Resort Awaits in Krabi!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your pristine travel brochure itinerary. This is REAL LIFE, Nerja-style, straight from the (very likely slightly sunburnt) brain of yours truly. We're talking Apartment Plaza Spain, Nerja, Spain – the heart of it all, right? Let's see if we can actually survive this…
The Nerja Nightmare-Turned-Maybe-Dream (Or at Least A Really Good Story)
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Balcony of Doom (aka, the Balcón de Europa)
- Morning (ish): Touchdown in Málaga! Ugh, the airport. Always chaotic. The promise of the Spanish sun does, however, outweigh the fact that I'm pretty sure I stepped in something questionable in the security line. Finding the transfer to Nerja. Let's hope the driver speaks English… or at least understands the frantic hand gestures I've perfected over the years. The drive itself? Gorgeous, with the sea sparkling like a million tiny, judgmental diamonds. I'm already feeling a sense of excitement, but also a little bit of that travel anxiety.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Apartment Plaza Spain. Okay, first impression… clean. Not spotless, but clean enough that I don't immediately need to burn down the place. The check-in process? Smooth…ish. The woman at reception was lovely, thankfully more patient. Figuring out the keys, the wifi password (crucial, people!), and the general layout of the apartment. My window looks out…wait a second… Is that the Balcón de Europa? Wow. Okay, instantly better.
- Late Afternoon / Early Evening: The Balcón de Europa. Officially, "The Balcony of Europe." Unofficially, "The Place That Will Make You Instantly Instagram-Famous." It's breathtaking. Seriously breathtaking. I actually almost teared up. Tourists everywhere (obviously, me included). Ordered a Sangria at a cafe overlooking the sea. It was probably overpriced and a little weak, but who cares? I was in Nerja, drinking Sangria, and feeling all the feels! Strolled across it, watching the sunset paint everything in glorious hues of orange and pink. Feeling pretty good, and probably a little tipsy.
- Evening: Dinner at a tapas bar attempting to look like a local. It's tricky, the whole pretending-to-be-a-local thing. You just end up standing out even MORE. Ordered a selection of tapas. The patatas bravas were good, the croquetas… well, let's just say I've had better. A bit too much salt. Met a charming (and possibly a little too enthusiastic) Spanish gentleman, who attempted to teach me a flamenco step. I'm pretty sure I looked ridiculous. Went back to the apartment and crashed. Jet lag is a brutal mistress.
Day 2: Caves, Calas, and Culinary Chaos… (and Probably Another Sunburn)
- Morning: Wake up feeling… surprisingly okay. Coffee on the balcony. The Mediterranean sea is shimmering like a picture, I could sit here for hours, and I already am.
- Late Morning: Cue a train ride to the Nerja Caves. I mean, the brochure said it’s 'spectacular'. The reality? It is spectacular. It also gets a lot of walking and the air is thick and damp, but the formations are truly mind-blowing. I mean, stalactites and stalagmites! I even pretended to know the difference, which I totally don’t. Took about a million photos, including one of me looking like a bewildered cave explorer.
- Afternoon: The Calas, or small beaches, were the reason I came here in the first place. I'd read they were beautiful and secluded. I’m thinking… beautiful, yes. Secluded? Not so much. Still, I found a small cove, and the rocks were a nice place to sit and watch the water. Jumped into the water, and it was freezing! But I did it anyway. The sun was beating down, and I was going full-on lobster in about three hours.
- Late Afternoon: The great quest for the perfect Paella. I scoured the local reviews and found a restaurant. The restaurant was tucked away in a maze of streets, which I managed to get a bit lost with so the walk to the place was longer than expected. I ordered paella, and it was… okay. Not the life-changing paella I'd envisioned. Felt like a little bit of a failure in the culinary department. Decided to drown my sorrows in more Sangria.
- Evening: Walked along the beach. Thought about swimming again, but decided against it. Found a small beach bar. Watching people. Was great.
Day 3: The Nerja Breakdown… Maybe a Break Through? (Or, More Sunburn and Sangria)
- Morning: This is where things get… a little messy. Woke up feeling slightly defeated. My tan is developing nicely, but my internal clock is all over the place. Breakfast on the balcony again. Decided that sometimes a good plan is not a plan.
- Late Morning/Early Afternoon: The Quest for the Perfect Beach. Today's mission: finding a beach that isn't overly crowded and with decent sand. Wandered around. Got lost again. Eventually found a hidden gem, Playa de Burriana. It was nice. But the sand was okay. The water was nice. You will find plenty of places that can make you happy, but you need to let them.
- Afternoon: Okay, time to actually do something. I decided to go kayaking on the way. It was amazing. The clear water, the little coves, the feeling of being in the sea. I'm not going to lie. I tipped over. I felt ridiculous. The instructor was incredibly kind, and I was fine. Kayaking in the sea under the Spanish sun felt like the best way the spend the day.
- Late Afternoon: Back to the apartment. Shower. Change. Then, another Sangria. And… a little nap.
- Evening: Dinner. A smaller tapas bar this time. More croquetas. They were better. Found a bar with live music… and this older gentleman with a very nice voice. I stayed for hours. It felt incredible. The Spanish in me started to surface. The dancing wasn't the best, but I did enjoy it. I have no regrets.
Day 4: Departure… or Should I Stay? (Because, Honestly, I Could See Myself Staying)
- Morning: Breakfast on the balcony. The sea is calling me. The sun is shining. I don't want to leave.
- Late Morning: Packing. Cleaning. Ugh, the dreaded realities of travel. Managed to get most of my stuff contained.
- Afternoon: Final walk along the Balcón de Europa. One last Sangria. One last look at that view.
- Late Afternoon: Goodbye to Apartment Plaza Spain. Goodbye to Nerja.
- Evening: At the airport terminal, getting ready to head home. Feeling a weird mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. I had a great time.
Final Thoughts (Because You Know I Have To):
Nerja isn't perfect. The streets are a bit crowded, the tourist traps are plentiful, and the paella… well, it's a gamble. But it's got a magic. It's got the sun, the sea, the history, the joy. The locals. The memories. The good times. So, go to Nerja. It might not be an escape from life, but it sure can make you feel alive. And that, my friends, is worth the trip. Now, where’s that Sangria?
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Nerja's Hidden Gem: APARTMENT PLAZA SPAIN - Your Dream Vacation Awaits! (or Does It?) - FAQ...ish
Alright, spill the beans. Is this "Hidden Gem" actually *hidden* or just... well, there?
Okay, honest moment. "Hidden Gem" might be a *slight* exaggeration. It's more like... a well-kept secret that a lot of people *know*. You won't need a treasure map to find Apartment Plaza Spain, thankfully. It's right smack-dab in the center of Nerja, like, *really* in the center. Think, you stumble out of your apartment at 3 AM craving churros (which, by the way, you *will*), and BAM, you're practically tripping over a churro cart. So, not hidden. Accessible. Conveniently churro-adjacent. That’s the vibe.
The photos look AMAZING. Is it *actually* that good? Or is it the internet lying to me again?
Ugh, the photos. Right? They're... close. Look, the light in Nerja is magical. Even my grumpy uncle looks halfway decent in that Spanish sunshine. Apartment Plaza Spain *is* charming. The balcony, yes, it's as lovely as it looks. You can sit there with your morning coffee (or, let's be real, a giant jug of sangria) and watch the world go by. The pool? Actually refreshing. But here's the thing: remember it *is* an apartment. Means it's home, in its own way. Which also means, things might not *always* be pristine. Embrace a little bit of lived-in comfort, okay?
Okay, pool. Gotta ask. Is it crowded? And, more importantly... is it *clean*?
The pool. This is a big one. The pool situation. Alright, the pool *is* lovely. Sparkling, inviting, perfect for a post-beach dip. Crowded? Well, depends *when* you go. Peak season? Yeah, you might have to share with a few hundred of your closest strangers. Off-season? Bliss. Heaven on earth. As for clean... they *try* to keep it clean. There are those skimmer things, and I *believe* they do the chlorine thing. Look, I'm not a pool inspector. But I never got sick. So, on a scale of "swimming in a swamp" to "crystal clear mountain spring," I'd give it a solid 7 out of 10. Just don't expect Olympic-sized pristine-ness, ya know?
Location, location, location! What's the real deal? Is it as central as they say?
Central? Honey, you practically *live* in the town square. You're within stumbling distance (again, churros!) of everything. The beach? A short stroll. Restaurants? Everywhere. Shops? Overwhelmingly present. Now, this is both a blessing and a curse. Because you'll be tempted by all the temptations, and your wallet WILL suffer. Also, be prepared for some noise. It's Nerja, not a silent monastery. You might hear the music from the bars pulsing until... well, until everyone passes out from sangria. Which, let's be honest, might be you.
I want to experience *that* particular balcony myself! What's the balcony view like?
Okay, the balcony view deserves its _own_ category, because it's a whole *thing*. Remember when I said the photos are *close*? The balcony view is *better*, honestly. You get this fantastic panorama of the Plaza. Imagine: little kids chasing pigeons. Old ladies gossiping in Spanish (you won't understand, but it's fantastic). The sun setting behind the whitewashed buildings. Honestly, I spent *hours* on that balcony. One time, I literally cried. Not because of anything sad, but because I was so overwhelmed by how... *perfect* it felt. The air, the light, the feeling of being *there*. Seriously. Bring a good book. And maybe a box of tissues. You'll need them. I am not kidding. I saw *life* from that balcony, people. It's a solid 10/10 experience. Book it. Right now.
Are there any downsides? (Be honest!)
Okay, downsides. Here's the real scoop. The Wi-Fi can be a little... patchy. Don't rely on it for streaming your favorite shows. Embrace the digital detox! Another thing: the apartments aren't *huge*. You're not exactly living in a palace. You're in a perfectly functional apartment, which means you'll get cozy with your travel companions. And, you know, the noise. *Some* nights are louder than others. Bring earplugs. Seriously! And perhaps, think twice if you need total silence for work. But honestly, those are the *only* real downsides.
How's the kitchen? Can I actually *cook* in there?
The kitchen. Ah, the kitchen. It's... equipped. You can definitely cook. You'll have, like, basic pots and pans, a few knives, and a fridge to store all the delicious Spanish goodies you'll buy. However, don't expect a gourmet chef's setup. It's functional. I made omelets. Pasta. Sandwiches. You’re not gonna be baking soufflés... unless you're feeling *really* ambitious (and have a serious tolerance for heat). Think simple meals. Embrace the tapas culture! It's cheaper, easier, and *way* more fun. Less dishwashing, more sangria drinking. That's my motto.
Is it kid-friendly? Because... well, kids.
Kid-friendly? Technically, yes. The pool is good for kids, and the beach is just a short walk. Plus, the central location means ice cream is always nearby. HOWEVER... the balconies have railing, but parents should probably watch their kids, especially littler kids. Also, the noise? Might not be the best if your little ones are light sleepers. Overall, I'd say if your kids are good travelers and can handle the hustle and bustle, they'll probably love it. If they need absolute quiet and a lot of space to run around... maybe look elsewhere, or maybe get a different apartment with a better arrangement.
Okay, I'm sold! Give me one last sell and/or tell me what NOT to expect.
Don't expect sterile perfection at Apartment Plaza Spain. Expect charm. Expect a fantastic location. Expect late nights, amazing food, and making more memories than you know what to do with. Expect to fall in love with Nerja. Expect to maybe, possibly, cry on that balcony (good tearsBest Rest Finder
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