We very much enjoyed our stay at Ana’s mini studio with its beautiful large terrace in the sunshine with views over the city and the main historical plaza. The sunset views from the terrace were to die for and it is the perfect location for visiting everywhere in the city. It’s definitely a great base if you are a night owl like the locals (we aren’t unfortunately so at times the noise from outside in the very popular plaza/square was a little too much for us to sleep well. That said we were in the heart of the city so some noise was expected). The bed was very comfortable and the place was clean – pillows slightly harder than we like but you can’t keep everyone happy. We loved the fact there was a washer as it meant we only had to carry backpacks for a week’s stay and clothes dry super quick on the terrace in the sun on a handy clothes horse.

We found previous reviews to be very accurate in their portrayal of the studio when it comes to things that may put others off. The stairs are narrow and steep so not suitable for anyone on the large side, someone who doesn’t like a climb or can’t manage stairs (as previous reviews advise, the lift doesn’t go from the bottom to the top). The shower tray leaks over the floor no matter how you position it (but there is a mop and bucket to clean up after) and the pipe work in the shower makes it hard to have a hot shower. The décor and basic kitchen equipment is tired and in need of a bit of sprucing. There were some broken elements that let the place seem a little unloved – a smashed mirror, a cracked sink in the bathroom, a missing blind from the kitchen, a broken plant pot outside, two broken seats round the outside table and cracks running through both sun loungers. The aircon constantly dripped on us one night after being turned off – can imagine in the hottest months of the year, the lack of cooling would be unbearable.

As we stayed for a week it gave us plenty of time to pick fault but for a short weekend away, we’d recommend the place in a heartbeat; it has everything you would need. Thank you Ana for great communication and quick responses.