The hotel has recently been renovated and so it was fresh, clean, modernised but still retained character and charm. The staff were so helpful and friendly. No pool but with the beach only 10 minutes on bus, we never missed having one and the courtyard garden was a quiet oasis compared to a crowded, noisy pool area. 20 mins on a bus into the centre and lots of neighbourhood restaurants to walk to very near to famous Arts & Science museum, also in walking distance. Breakfast and hotel dining was great.