We stayed for three nights at the Howard Johnson Recoleta in the fourth week of Sept 2007. After searching through the internet, we found the cheapest rate for this hotel through Venere.com - we paid USD110 per night including breakfast and taxes.

When we arrived, no one helped us with our baggage. Additionally, we booked a double bed, but when we arrived we were given two twin beds. However, the housekeeping fixed the problem very well by putting the two beds together using very thick paddings. So no problem.

The bathroom was small but modern much like many hotels in Europe. No problem with the hot water and pressure, and there was also a hair dryer.

Like what the other reviewer said, I think one of the worst parts about the room was the wooden floor, which was not in good condition and looked a little dirty.

No problems with the A/C and the safe. There were two computer screens at the lobby with internet access, and they are free. However, I do agree that the breakfast was very average.

The street the hotel is located is parallell and right next to Santa Fe. While the other reviewer said that it's far from the good side, because we like to walk, we found that the hotel was walkable to many restaurants and night clubs. We felt safe walking even at 2 or 3 o'clock in the morning as there are plenty of policemen on Santa Fe around the clock.

The best part about the hotel is the guest policy, allowing our guests, friends and local guide to go up to our room. Overall, I would stay there again, but only if The Feir's Park Hotel is not available (we stayed there for three nights in October on the way back from Brazil).

Location: While the location is near the Recoleta district, it's not quite there, so don't be misled by the name. You will need a cab to get to the cemetery, the church and the park. The street it is on (Marcelo T. de Alvear) is not one of those charming streets in Recoleta, you will need to walk four or five blocks and get to the other side (the "good side") of Santa Fe avenue, to start seeing the real Recoleta district.

Rooms: Our twin room (803) was more like a 2 star than a 4 star they claim to be. The curtains were ripped, the fake wood floor was completely scratched, we had asked for a non-smoking room but the one we got obviously had been used previously by a smoking guest. But what I couldn't figure out is why they have both light switches on one side of the beds, your companion has to always ask you to turn his/her light off or on. This also happens in the rooms featuring only one bed. The bathroom was tiny and the floor was dirty.

Restaurant: the breakfast buffet was average, however, the food for lunch and dinner was exceptionally good and the prices very reasonable. The chef certainly deserves a better establishment.

Internet: wi-fi plus free access at 2 screens in the lobby.

Spa: everything, pool, jacuzzi, showers, is minimal, you get the feeling they are there only to claim their 4 star status.

You can do better in Buenos Aires for the same money.