San Sebastian, May 7 - 8

Pension Easo, room 6


We checked into this pension after the train ride from hell, and it was like entering heaven. The room was quite new, with minimal furnishing, crisp white bed linen and a comfy bed. The owner is helpful and there's a resident cat who shows his face occasionally, if you're lucky. The only detraction was that our room looked out onto an internal courtyard, so there wasn't a lot of fresh air. Oh, and there was a fire exit sign in the room that was too bright at night. However, for the price, this represents great value in expensive San Sebastian.

View: Covered internal courtyard
Bathroom: Shared, but spotless.
Cost: 35 euros
Recommended: Definitely

Tomar, May 2

Residencial Uniao, room 14


We turned up to this residencial without booking and asked for a room. There was much shuffling of papers and heavy sighing. However, luckily, they had a room available, as this turned out to be a really good deal. The room was clean, with antique furniture and a reasonably comfy bed. But the clincher was the free wireless.
Cost: 33, breakfast included (and the crusty bread rolls are delicious)
View: Side street
Bathroom: Private
Recommended? Highly.
Contact details: www.residencialuniao.verportugal.com residencialuniao@sapo.pt Address: 94 Rua Serpa Pinto, Tomar. Telephone: + 351 249 323 161

Taveira, April 17 and 18

Residencial Taveira, room 101

We arrived in Taveira at 6pm and found this place on arrival. Our room was super-clean, with rustic decor. It featured a basin and also, strangely, a bidet. Extremely friendly owner.
View: Side street
Special features: Roof terrace ideal for supping beverages and playing card games
Bathroom: Shared, but very clean.
Cost: 30 euros
Recommended? Yes