Alda Hotel Reykjavik

5 day stay

Pros: The hotel was great. From the atmosphere and decorations to the people working there. The front desk staff were amazing and friendly. They were always ready to help and had a smile on there faces everyday. We got a family sized room for two people just because I heard the rooms might be smaller. However the room was bigger than I expected including the bathroom. You hear that the shower doors fold to make more room. However even extended there is enough room for the other person to use the sink or get ready. The hotel gives you a cell phone with data included, which was honestly amazing. I made the phone into a wifi hotspot and was able to use my own cell phone throughout the trip. Just bring portable charger with you as the phone battery dies quickly this way. The hotel is also located on the main strip and perfect walking distance from restaurants and bars. But a few blocks down so you don't hear the noise of the bars at night. We never tried the breakfast downstairs as we always had say trips planned in the mornings. There is a bakery down the street that is open early I can't remember the name of it but the front desk told us about it. Big enough to sit down and have breakfast, but gets packed as well so give yourself enough time if you have morning plans. The room does come with a pot to make your own hot tea and instant coffee if you are in a rush.

Cons: Hard to say what I did not like about the hotel. The only thing I can think of is that the room gets very warm and with no thermostat to control temperature. We opened the window everyday however it only opens a tiny crack and doesn't stay open on its own. Probably from the wind outside. Just bring light pajamas with you and you will be fine.

Pros: Location and view.

Cons: Smal room, not much storage room.

A smartphone for every room!

Pros: Somehow this isn't mentioned on their website or any reviews I've seen, but Hotel Alda gives each guest an android smartphone in lieu of a room phone. This phone works throughout Iceland, has reception on speed dial, and has all the other bells and whistles you'd expect of s smartphone: maps, activity guides, etc. A great and welcome surprise!

Cons: Unfortunately for the hotel, but fortunately for Reykjavik generally, there is a bit of construction going on near the facilities. Not a big deal if you're getting up early to go on an adventure, but if you intend to sleep in do ask for a room on the other side of the hotel. This advice should be good through the end of summer 2015.