Hostal Canela y Miel

The way the word "hostal" is used differently in different countries can be confusing. When we booked here, we were thinking there may be rooms with bunk beds, lots of party people and the usual that one thinks of associated with hostels with an 'e'. Wrong! This is a sweet little hotel. I dare say if you have an abundance of luggage, this is not the place for you. The rooms are on the small side, but with carry-on luggage, it was perfect. For a location, it is excellent. The Basilica is on the corner and all of downtown starts a block from the door. We have been here for 4 nights and have thoroughly enjoyed the ambiance. The woman who runs the place is a sweet and kind woman. She has helped us get our laundry done at minimal cost and maximum convenience. The young woman who cleans the rooms goes above and beyond what we would have expected. Yes, the rooms are on the small side and the bathroom is also small. However, there has been the best hot water here in both the shower and the sink of anywhere we have stayed in Ecuador and we have been here for 2 months already. The water pressure in the shower is like being under a waterfall. It is a delight to use, but using the hot water only could cause a severe burn. It is that hot. Incredible! Our room was on the street side, but the noise level was minimal. There are street vendors (3 of them) that cook and serve until about midnight and then leave. They are generally quiet. There is little traffic at night. Another benefit is this hotel has the best WiFi of any place that we have experienced in Ecuador. It is very fast. If we were to return to Banos, we would not think twice before returning here again. Thank you to the staff for a great time. Ryan and Ron