Valencia's Hidden Gem: NH Collection Colón - Unforgettable Stay!
Valencia's Hidden Gem: NH Collection Colón - Unforgettable Stay! - A Messy, Honest Review
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea on the NH Collection Colón in Valencia. Forget those perfectly polished travel blogs – this is the real deal, warts and all (hopefully not literally, though I did find a stray hair in my coffee one morning… but hey, it happens!). This isn't just a hotel review; it's a journey. A messy, honest, and hopefully, helpful one.
First Impressions: Blown Away (Mostly)
The NH Collection Colón claims to be a hidden gem. And you know what? They're not wrong. Walking into that lobby is like stepping into a stylish, modern movie set. The architecture is stunning, all clean lines and artful lighting. It's the kind of place that makes you feel instantly chic, even if you're rocking yesterday's travel clothes (which, let's be honest, I was).
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, Sadly
Okay, let's be real. My experience wasn't about accessibility, but I always try to note it. The hotel does boast "Facilities for disabled guests," which is a good start. There's an elevator (essential!), and the website mentions some accessible rooms. However, I couldn't find a ton of detailed info. So, if accessibility is a must for you, I'd recommend reaching out to the hotel directly and getting specifics. Don't rely on vague assurances – ask about room layouts, bathroom features, and ease of access to the restaurant and pool.
The Room: My Little Slice of Heaven (and a Few Minor Gripes)
My room? Oh, my room. It was gorgeous. Seriously. Like, "I could live here forever" gorgeous. The Air conditioning worked like a dream (thank GOD, Valencia heat is no joke!), the blackout curtains were a lifesaver (hello, sleep!), and the bed was so comfortable I almost wept. They had bathrobes and slippers too, which always feels decadent.
The little things I appreciated: the complimentary tea and coffee (essential for a caffeine addict like me!), the in-room safe, the hair dryer that actually worked (a rarity, trust me!), and the free Wi-Fi that actually was free and didn't require a PhD in IT to connect.
Now, the imperfections… The soundproofing wasn't perfect. I could occasionally hear the street noise, especially at night. And while the bathroom was beautiful, the shower pressure was a bit…meh. But honestly, those are minor quibbles.
Internet: Connected (Mostly)
The Wi-Fi [free] was a lifesaver. I’m always working on the road (or at least pretending to), and the Internet access – wireless was strong enough for video calls and uploading ridiculous selfies. They also had Internet access – LAN if you're old-school and prefer a wired connection (though, who does that anymore?).
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Secure
This is huge right now, and the NH Collection Colón clearly takes it seriously. They’ve got a whole laundry list of Cleanliness and safety measures: Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere, Rooms sanitized between stays, and staff trained in safety protocol. I felt genuinely safe and at ease. Plus, the Staff trained in safety protocol were always wearing masks and following the rules. They even had a Safe dining setup in the restaurant (more on that later!).
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Gastronomic Adventure (Mostly Successful)
The Restaurants at the hotel were pretty damn good. The Breakfast [buffet] was a masterpiece (more on that in a sec). I loved the A la carte in restaurant options for dinner, especially the international cuisine. They also had a Poolside bar which was perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail.
The Buffet: My Personal Paradise
Okay, let's talk about the Breakfast [buffet]. This was the highlight for me. Seriously. It was a buffet in restaurant of epic proportions. Freshly squeezed orange juice, mountains of pastries, a Western breakfast spread that would make your grandma jealous, and even Asian breakfast options for the adventurous. They had everything! And I mean everything. I may or may not have gone back for seconds…and thirds…and maybe a sneaky fourth plate. No judgement. It was that good.
Important note: They also offered Breakfast takeaway service for those who are in a rush.
The Food Situation (The Little Things)
I appreciated the little touches, like the Bottle of water in the room and the availability of Coffee/tea in restaurant. They also had a Snack bar, which was perfect for a quick bite.
Ways to Relax: Spa Day Dreams (Unfulfilled, Sadly)
Okay, this is where I have a bit of a confession. I wanted to experience the Spa. I dreamed of a Massage, a Sauna, maybe a Steamroom… but I just ran out of time. And honestly, I was too busy stuffing my face at the breakfast buffet! But they had all the amenities for a full-on pampering session: a Fitness center, a Pool with view, a Swimming pool, and even Spa/sauna facilities. Next time, Valencia, next time!
Services and Conveniences: The Perks of Being a Tourist
The hotel is packed with useful services. They have Air conditioning in public area, which is a godsend in the Valencia heat. There’s a Concierge to help with anything you need, Daily housekeeping to keep things tidy, and a Luggage storage if you arrive early or leave late. Laundry service and Dry cleaning are available (essential if you’re as messy as me!). Plus, they offer Currency exchange and Cash withdrawal facilities.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy
The NH Collection Colón is super well-located, so getting around is a breeze. They have Taxi service, and I saw a Car park [on-site].
For the Kids (and the Kid in All of Us)
I didn't travel with kids, but I did notice the hotel had Babysitting service and was Family/child friendly.
The Staff: Super Friendly (Mostly)
The Staff trained in safety protocol were generally friendly and helpful, though there was one instance where I had to wait a bit longer than expected for something. But hey, nobody's perfect!
My Final Verdict: Go, Book It, Now!
Okay, so after all my rambling and the minor gripes, would I recommend the NH Collection Colón? Absolutely! It's a stylish, well-located hotel with great amenities, a killer breakfast, and a genuine commitment to cleanliness and safety. It's not perfect, but it's damn close.
Here's my messy, honest, and hopefully helpful summary:
- The Good: Stunning design, amazing breakfast, great location, comfortable rooms, excellent Wi-Fi, and a strong focus on safety.
- The Not-So-Good: Shower pressure could be better, some street noise, and the accessibility information could be clearer.
My Quirky Observation: The elevator music was surprisingly good. Usually, elevator music is the bane of my existence. This was actually pleasant. Go figure!
My Emotional Reaction: I felt relaxed, pampered, and genuinely happy during my stay. This is a hotel that understands how to make its guests feel special.
My Recommendation: Book it. Seriously. You deserve it.
The Offer: Valencia's Hidden Gem: Unforgettable Stay!
Book your stay at the NH Collection Colón and receive:
- A Complimentary Upgrade (Based on Availability): Get a chance to experience a room upgrade!
- Free Breakfast for Two: Indulge in the award-winning breakfast buffet (because you deserve it!).
- 10% Discount on Spa Treatments: Unwind and pamper yourself in the hotel's spa (I'm still kicking myself for missing it!).
- Free Late Check-Out: Sleep in and enjoy your last morning in Valencia without rushing.
Why Book Now?
- Unbeatable Value: Experience luxury without breaking the bank.
- Peace of Mind: Relax knowing the hotel prioritizes your safety and well-being.
- Unforgettable Memories: Create lasting memories in one of Valencia's most stylish hotels.
Click here to book your unforgettable stay at the NH Collection Colón! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience a true hidden gem!
Guangzhou's BEST Hotel Near West Gate Subway? Yizhi Hotel's Secret Revealed!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my slightly chaotic, totally opinionated, and utterly Valencia-obsessed itinerary. This isn’t your sanitized, Instagram-filtered travel guide. This is the real deal, warts and all, from a person who loves a good paella and a decent nap. And we're starting in the gloriously stylish (and hopefully, air-conditioned) NH Collection Valencia Colon.
NH Collection Valencia Colon - Our Home Base (and Where the Sanity Starts…Maybe)
Day 1: Arrival & Mild Panic (aka "Did I Pack Enough Shoes?")
- Afternoon (ish): Landed at Valencia Airport (VLC). The sun was already trying to fry me, and I'm pretty sure I forgot my hat. Taxi to the hotel. The driver, bless him, spoke about as much English as I speak Spanish (which is…limited). We managed, mostly through frantic hand gestures and the occasional "¡Gracias!" I swear, I almost cried when I saw the cool, elegant lobby of the NH Collection. Air conditioning! Sweet, sweet air conditioning!
- Check-in: Smooth as silk. They even upgraded me to a room with a balcony! (Winning!) Spent a good 20 minutes just staring at the view and mentally cataloging all the potential people-watching opportunities.
- Unpacking & Self-Doubt: This is where the "did I pack enough shoes" panic set in. Answer? Probably not. But hey, I'm here to experience life, not judge my footwear choices.
- Evening: Wandered down to the bar. Ordered a tinto de verano (basically, red wine spritzer – my new favorite drink). People-watched some more. The Spanish are stylish, man. So stylish. Feeling slightly intimidated. Ate some tapas at the hotel restaurant – the croquetas were divine. Seriously, melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Day 2: Exploring the City and the Existential Dread of Being a Tourist
- Morning: Breakfast at the hotel. They had a jamón ibérico station. I may have gone back for seconds (and thirds). Fueled up, ready to conquer Valencia!
- City of Arts and Sciences: Ah, the iconic City of Arts and Sciences. The architecture is stunning, futuristic, and frankly, a little overwhelming. Spent way too long trying to get the perfect Instagram shot (fail). The Oceanogràfic aquarium was impressive, but I felt a pang of sadness for the animals. Note to self: research ethical tourism practices.
- Lunch: Found a tiny, unassuming tapas bar near the City of Arts and Sciences. Ordered way too much food. The patatas bravas were perfect (crispy, spicy, amazing). The waiter, a grumpy old man, barely acknowledged me. I loved him.
- Afternoon: Strolled through the Turia Gardens, a green oasis that used to be a river. Seriously, the city is incredible. Walked through the historical center and got lost in the labyrinthine streets. Got slightly overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the Valencia Cathedral. The Holy Grail? Apparently. Whatever. It was still impressive.
- Evening: Dinner at a restaurant in the El Carmen neighborhood. Tried the paella valenciana (of course). It was good, but not the transcendent experience I was hoping for. (Note to self: keep searching for the perfect paella.) Met a couple from Yorkshire. We talked about Brexit. It was awkward.
Day 3: Delving Deep into the Mercado Central & the Joy of Doing Nothing.
- Morning: Mercado Central! Oh. My. Goodness. This place is a sensory overload in the best possible way. The colors, the smells, the sheer energy of the place. I bought some local oranges (sweetest I've ever tasted), a loaf of crusty bread, and a wedge of Manchego cheese. I could live here.
- Rambling: Got completely sidetracked by the cured meats section. Spent a good 20 minutes staring at the glistening hams, wondering if I could sneak one into my suitcase. (Probably not.) Decided to be sensible and buy some chorizo instead.
- Lunch: Picnic in the Turia Gardens! Sliced up the bread, cheese, and chorizo. Ate it all with the oranges. Best. Lunch. Ever.
- Afternoon: The Nap. Back to the hotel. Closed the curtains. Put on the "Do Not Disturb" sign. Slept. Hard. This is the most important activity of the day. I'm a firm believer in the power of the afternoon siesta, even if it's just a 30-minute power nap. It's a cultural necessity, people.
- Evening: Walked to the beach. Watched the sunset. Felt a profound sense of peace. Ate some gelato. Life is good.
Day 4: Paella Pilgrimage & a Touch of Melancholy
- Morning: Today, the quest for the perfect paella continues! Took a taxi to a restaurant a bit outside the city, recommended by the hotel concierge. The place was packed with locals, always a good sign.
- The Paella: It was…better. Much better. Still not the transcendent experience, but the rice was perfectly cooked, the seafood was fresh, and the flavors were complex. I ate every single grain. I'm not sure if I'm allowed to eat paella twice in a day, but I did.
- Rambling: The restaurant was filled with families, all laughing and chatting. It was heartwarming, and also…a little bit lonely. Travel is amazing, but sometimes, you miss your people.
- Afternoon: Wandered along the beach again. The waves were crashing, and the sky was grey. Felt the weight of the world (or at least, the weight of my luggage). Bought a postcard and wrote a long, rambling letter to my best friend.
- Evening: Dinner at a small, family-run restaurant in the Ruzafa neighborhood. The food was simple but delicious. The owners were incredibly kind. They spoke very little English, but we managed to communicate through smiles and gestures. It was the perfect ending to the day.
Day 5: Departure & the Bitter Sweetness of Goodbye (and Shopping!
- Morning: Final breakfast at the NH Collection. Savoring the last bit of jamón ibérico. Checked out of the hotel. Said goodbye to the lovely staff.
- Shopping: Last-minute souvenir shopping. Bought some ceramics, a few bottles of wine, and a ridiculous amount of chocolate. (Priorities, people!)
- Airport: Taxi to the airport. The driver was chatty. I pretended to understand what he was saying.
- Departure: Standing in the airport, waiting for my flight. Feeling a mix of emotions: sadness to leave, excitement to go home, and a burning desire to return to Valencia as soon as humanly possible.
- Reflection: Valencia, you were amazing. You were beautiful. You were delicious. And I'll be back. Oh, I'll be back.
Final Thoughts:
This itinerary isn't perfect. It's messy. It's opinionated. It's full of imperfections. But it's mine. And that's what makes it special. And if you're lucky enough to find yourself in Valencia, embrace the chaos, eat the paella, take the nap, and don't be afraid to get lost. You might just find yourself. And hopefully, you'll have a better time than I did trying to pronounce "Valencia."
Mumbai's Hidden Gem: GCC NorthSide Hotel - Unbelievable Luxury Awaits!
NH Collection Colón: Hidden Gem? More Like a Glorious, Slightly Flawed Treasure! My Messy FAQ.
Okay, let's cut to the chase: Is the NH Collection Colón REALLY as amazing as the reviews say?
What's the BEST thing about staying there? (Besides the obvious "it's gorgeous.")
And the WORST thing? Spill the tea!
The location – is it REALLY that central?
What about the breakfast? Worth the extra cost?
The bar! Tell me about the bar!
Any hidden gems or tips for staying at the NH Collection Colón?
- Upgrade if you can! Seriously, the rooms are beautiful.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases. The staff appreciate it, and it makes the whole experience more authentic.
- Explore the surrounding streets. Valencia is full of hidden gems, from tiny tapas bars to quirky boutiques. Just wander!
- Embrace the imperfections. That wonky shower head? That's part of the charm.
- Don't forget to try the horchata! (And then, maybe, another cocktail in the bar.)
Okay, one last shot... would you go back?
