As an LGBT couple, we always look for hotels that offer both comfort and inclusivity, and while Hotel Best Negresco in Salou had some high points, it also presented a few unique surprises. This was a special trip for us, a mini-moon before the big honeymoon, and overall, we left with mixed feelings. Here’s the full breakdown of our stay—expect some unforgettable moments, and others you might want to be prepared for!
Inclusivity & Welcoming Atmosphere: No Issues, Just Relaxed
One of the most important things when traveling as an LGBT couple is feeling at ease. Thankfully, Hotel Best Negresco made us feel comfortable and welcome. We didn’t have any issues during our stay, and the staff were friendly, even though we didn’t have much interaction beyond the basics. The hotel doesn’t necessarily promote a visible LGBTQ+ inclusive environment, but we certainly didn’t feel excluded in any way.
The Rooms: Basic, but Cosy Enough
When it comes to the rooms at Best Negresco, don’t expect to be wowed by luxury. Our room was clean and functional, though we had a less-than-ideal view (looking out over the back of the hotel, right above the laundry area). Not the dream view we were hoping for, but it was quiet and gave us the space to relax after our adventures in Salou. The decor was basic—nothing fancy—but comfortable enough for a good night’s sleep.
Dining & Drinks: The Cheese Toasties & Cocktails That Keep Us Coming Back
Okay, let’s talk food. The real winner here is the cheese toasties—honestly, these were so delicious that Jasmine has been craving them ever since we got home! If you’re a fan of comfort food, don’t miss these; they’re the perfect midday snack after lounging by the pool. The hotel also offers a variety of drinks that were mostly good, but here’s the kicker: while the drinks are nice, they’ll try to upsell you on cocktails that end up tasting exactly like the regular ones. So, don’t get too excited about the “fancy” versions!
If you’re after something beyond cheese toasties, the buffet dining is decent. It’s not ground-breaking, but there’s enough variety to keep you satisfied throughout your stay.
Entertainment: Great Shows, But the Layout Needs Work
The evening entertainment was enjoyable! The performances were good and offered a nice variety of acts to keep us entertained. The only downside? The setup made it really difficult to watch. With people standing in front of you, it felt like it wasn’t organized as well as it could have been. Still, the performers did a great job, and it was fun to unwind after a long day.
But, during the day… well, that’s where the hotel fell short. The daytime entertainment was basically non-existent, we had aqua gym, a table tennis game and a dart game from memory for a week long trip. We were hoping for some poolside activities or a little more excitement during the day, but there was nothing of note. If you’re someone who needs daytime action, you might find yourself a bit bored here.
Pools & Sunbed Drama: The Ruthless Policy
Oh, the sunbeds. This was one of the most surprising (and frustrating) aspects of the stay. We’ve stayed at many resorts where you can leave your things on a sunbed and head to lunch or the bar, only to return and find your stuff still waiting for you. Not here. If you left your spot for even a short while, they would take your things away. It wasn’t just a casual reminder to not leave towels unattended—it was ruthless. We’ve never experienced anything like it before, and it definitely added a layer of stress to what should have been a relaxing holiday.
On top of that, the pool doesn’t open until 10 AM, and the doors are actually locked until then, so if you’re an early riser like us, you’re out of luck if you’re hoping for an early morning swim.
Staff & Service: Friendly, But Nothing Extra
We had minimal interaction with the staff, but they were always friendly when we did. While the service didn’t blow us away, it was solid enough. The staff made sure everything was taken care of, but there was no standout service that made us feel extra special. They were polite and helpful, but we didn’t feel like they were going out of their way to make our stay unforgettable.
Location: Perfect for Exploring Salou
One of the best things about this hotel is its location. It’s just a short walk to local bars and restaurants, so if you like to head out and explore the local nightlife or enjoy a meal out, this hotel is in a prime spot for that. It’s close enough to everything you need, without being in the middle of all the chaos.
The Verdict: A Mixed Experience, But Still Worth It
In the end, our stay at Hotel Best Negresco was a bit of a mixed bag. We had a great time, but there were definitely some quirks that we weren’t expecting. The entertainment in the evening was fun, though the daytime activities were sorely lacking. The sunbed situation and pool opening hours were a huge downside, but the location and food (especially those cheese toasties) were big wins.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel in Salou that’s in a great spot for exploring, and you don’t mind a few hiccups, then Hotel Best Negresco might just be the right choice for you. If you’re looking for luxury, more consistent service, or a hotel with vibrant daytime activities, you might want to keep searching.
Ratings:
Inclusivity & Atmosphere: 7/10
Rooms: 6/10
Food & Drinks: 7/10 (the cheese toasties steal the show!)
Entertainment: 6/10 (evening shows good, but layout needs work)
Pools & Beach: 4/10 (sunbed policies need serious rethinking)
Service: 6/10 (friendly but nothing extraordinary)
Until next time, keep exploring, and don’t forget to love in all its forms! 🌈
