APARTAMENTOS FLAMINGO, Puerto del Carmen (Lanzarote)

The apartments are set just off the main pedestrian strip, yet the complex is surprisingly quiet. The entrance is at Avenida Las Playas 51, next to the Kiosco bar. The beach is directly across the road, and the promenade is lined with dining and shopping options. Airport transfers cost around €4-15 by taxi, or a short bus ride. Public transport stops are nearby, and the shopping mall is a short taxi ride away. The location is flat, so no hills to manage after a meal.

The apartments are described as basic but spotlessly clean and spacious. All have a sitting area, tea and coffee facilities, and a flat-screen TV with some English channels. Upper-floor apartments may offer sea views, while ground-floor units have garden or pool views. There is no air conditioning; fans are available to rent. The breeze from the sea often keeps the rooms comfortable. Balconies or terraces are generous, with some receiving sun all day. Bedrooms are separate from the living area, and cots are available on request. The bathrooms are private and some have a shower with a chair for wheelchair access. There are three adapted apartments for disabled guests, one with a shower chair. The complex has around 20 apartments, so it feels small and quiet.

The apartments do not serve breakfast or have an in-house restaurant. For morning meals, there are several cafés directly outside, including a popular one right at the gate. For lunch and dinner, the main strip offers a wide variety of dining options within a three-minute walk - from local tapas at El Bodegon de Luan to burgers at Hamburgueseria Goofy and cocktails at Golden Corner. Supermarkets are also nearby for self-catering supplies. The apartment kitchens are equipped for cooking, so eating in is practical. The bar outside the gate serves drinks and food.

The pool area is clean and well maintained, with comfortable sunbeds and enough umbrellas. Towel-saving is not an issue. The children's pool makes it suitable for families. Nearby off-site activities include diving, fishing, golf (within 3 km), hiking, horse riding, tennis, windsurfing, and a water park - all at additional charge. The beach is across the road. The complex is small, so the pool rarely feels crowded. There is no spa or gym.