Hostal Dulce Hogar

I’m sure this hotel, which is more like a bed and breakfast, is better in the high season. At least when they know you’re coming. I have to give a major thumbs down to the owners of this establishment. I had a confirmed reservation through *********** for one night in late April. When I arrived at the address in Latacunga, the place was dark and completely shut down. Had it not been for my Ecuadorian guide, I’d still be sitting outside the locked gate wondering what the hell was going on. He called the number on the booking and an employee took the call from another place under the same ownership. She confirmed we were at the correct address but had no idea that anyone was booked in that night. It took some animated discussion before 40 minutes later, she came to open up the house. If you think that was the end of the story, it isn’t. After choosing any room I wanted as I was the only one there, I settled in and was greatly looking forward to a hot shower after a tough hike that day. The problem was that there was no water running out of the taps. That was another difficult fix. It really did seem that the place was in some winter hibernation. I’m surprised the power was on. Firstly, I had to change rooms, to a much less charming one. Then, finally, 2 hours after getting in, the water started to flow from the taps. It wasn’t really hot but by that stage, I was willing to accept anything. The next morning, the water came gushing hot from the shower. Unfortunately, somehow I managed to flood the bathroom from inside the cubicle. The towels were soaked, the toilet paper a soggy mess and the water on the floor almost reaching the main room. More fortunately, I had a towel in my case so didn’t have to use the sheets to dry myself off. I was served a home-cooked breakfast of eggs and bread at the communal dining table on the ground floor. The dinner the previous night had been lasagne ordered in from somewhere local, also served at the dining table (I was not allowed to eat in my room). For $US70 cash plus $10 for dinner, no-one could say I received a great deal for the experience. The only positive was I didn’t have to sleep in the car. The lady who came and stayed did try her best to get everything working and she can’t be held responsible for the incompetency of the owners who failed to pass on the reservation. Obviously, I cannot recommend this accommodation in any way. But if you do come upon this place online and make a booking, make sure you contact them beforehand so that at least the gates may be open when you arrive. Check out my other reviews of places, hotels and experiences throughout South America.