Marlasca

As far as pensions go, you won't find a more down-home place to crash than Hostal Marlasca, a pension tucked into a quaint side street in the center of Madrid.

The Marlasca is one of the most appealing bargains in the center of Madrid. We attribute its appeal to owner Adoración Gonzales' decision to leave her personal stylistic stamp on every corner and nook. Strange Spanish gizmos such as an ancient telephone box decorate the hallway. The Baroque pictures on the wall are actually puzzles she meticulously pieced together herself. Our verdict: quirky and cool.

A recent expansion racks up the room count up to 52, each unique. This is no cookie-cutter property: not one of these rooms resembles the next. Furniture ranges from canopied beds to dark-wood antique vanities. There are some flat-screen TVs in the mix.

The hotel is located on Calle Huertas, a narrow street near Plaza Santa Ana host to late night partying) not far from Plaza Sol. Rooms are quiet, and exterior rooms all have balconies.