Just got back from a trip to Marbella and stayed in the Los Patios apartments. Booked a 2 bed/2 bath direct with owner and since this was the 1st time we have done this, I was a bit nervous. Picked up a taxi from Malaga airport wich was pricy but better and faster than taking the train. The apartments are not in central marbella but they are still close to lots of amenities. Although I was disappointed at first, I was really happy with our choice once I saw central marbella! Myself & my boyfriend just wanted to relax in the sun in our own space which we did at these apartments. We arrived late on the Thursday and met the keyholder outside the apartments. All went smoothly which was great. Apartment was clean, modern & spacious and had everything we needed for our stay. We couldn´t use the parking space in the basement but we didn´t have a car anyway so we werent really upset about that. There was a golf club next door but we didnt use it. Restaurants, bars etc were just a short walk away and we ate in the local restaurants most evenings. There is a good selection and its not that touristy which is nice. There is a late-night bar too which seemed the in place to drink and we had a cocktail there most nights. The beach was around 15 mins on foot and surprisingly nice with clean sea! Lots of fish restaurants to choose from although some are qite pricy. Marbella centre was OK to get to on the bus and we went there 1 afternoon to find all the shops shut for siesta! Shopping was better at the big out-of town shopping centre closer to Puerto banus. Went to Puerto Banus market on the Saturday which was good but huge! We got a taxi back to the apartment which took around 20 mins! Marbella is a big place. I would definitly book owner-direct again as it was so easy for what we wanted. The only down-side is you dont get a room clean every day. Next time I would book a hire car as a weeks rental was the same a taking a taxi to and from the airport.