Delhi, 13 August

Vivek hotel, room 301
We arrived late to find only one room left, despite the fact that the monsoon rains had left the lobby swimming in raw sewerage from the overflowing drains. The late hour left us no choice but to stay there.
Sheets were damp and there was a cockroach living under the mattress. And it was a cold water shower. Grim all-round.
Bathroom: Private, but dirty and rank
View: None, frosted window onto corridor
Cost: 400 rupees
Recommended? Horrible. Don't be a cheapskate, it's not worth it - just spend the extra for a decent room.
Contact details: 1534 Main Bazaar, Paharganj. Tel 41511435. Email: reservation@vivekhotel.com www.vivekhotel.com

Florence, May 18

Leonardo's House, un-numbered room

We only stayed one night at this basic hostel-like place, which is probably the cheapest option in pocket-bashing Florence. Leonardo himself is friendly and very helpful (he's thoughtfully put up the train schedule on one wall for easy reference), but the rooms seem to vary. Ours unfortunately only had an internal window onto a walkway, frosted so we couldn't see out. It was clean enough, although could do with a tidy up on the decor. (Other rooms seem to be nicer, so might be a good idea to ask to look around first – maybe if you're staying more than one night you'll get a better room.) No towels are provided.
Bathroom: Shared, and a bit manky.
View: None. Window was frosted.
Cost: 40 euros
Recommended? If you're on a budget, this will do.