Hostal Oriente

When travelling through Madrid I wanted to be close to the Sol area where I stayed last time I was in town about 4 years ago. The Hostal Oriente was located right near the «Opera» train station (one stop from Sol, and an easy stroll up Calle Arenal.)
Great area to explore, good cafes and bars and easy access via the Metro to and from Barajas Airport.
I found this place on trip advisor rated #55 of 427, read some comments and glad I booked. For Madrid and a mere 65 euros this place is a steal… Fair size room by European standards, super clean, nice clean ensuite bath room (no tub only stand up shower.) A window opened to a inner courtyard which was no prize view, but I was grateful for the fresh air. Last time I had an awesome view of Sol Plaza but I paid heaps more as well — besides I was here for my last day in Spain before flying and just wanted somewhere to sleep with easy access to my favourite parts of Madrid.
From the Opera train station this place is two minutes walk, straight up Calle Arenal on the right hand side — look for the big red sign high up on the building and the little brass wall sign marking a wooden door with an intercom button.
One of the ladies who worked here was filipino, and spoke perfect english which was a treat after hiking in Northern Spain /​France and utilizing my rusty travel guide Spainish for the last several weeks…
She helped me find everything I needed quickly, so I could enjoy my last night in the 28 degree Madrid evening before returning to beautiful (cool & wet) Vancouver.

Don’t Panic
if as you walk from Opera train station you see what appears to be an office building. It’s the hotel. No huge sign just small placard in front.
Don’t Panic
when you first enter. Lobby and hotel are on the 2^nd floor. You’re in the right place.
Don’t Panic
if you struggle with Spanish and the front desk clerk struggles with English. The housekeeper will more than likely show up and help with translation.
Dont Panic
when light switch doesn’t work. You need to put key card in slot for power.
Don’t Panic
if you can’t hear outside sounds. The world is still there, the room is just exceptionally quiet.
Don’t Panic
if you can’t get on line. The code for the free wi-​fi is available from front desk.
Dont Panic
if you think you can’t afford somewhere clean, quiet and safe in Madrid.
Rates in Sept were $ 70 – 80 USD per night. While the name may imply hostel there’s no shared bathroom and no flurry of underage kids running around.
This isn’t posh luxury, don’t look for room service, pool or minibar. However if, like me, you spend most of your time outside your room and use hotel to sleep, shower and {expletive deleted} it’s a good panic free place to stay.