Slovenia is a lovely little country. Unfortunately the beach region is just a few kms, so it tends to be crowded there. Italians like it because they get more for their Euro in Portoroz.

This report is about hotel Lucija. It is the simplest member of the Metropol hotel group (2-3 stars), but also the closest to the beach. You may use all their services including indoor pool and Casino/Evening Shows. If you are lucky you'll get a free parking lot and avoid using the garage built into the mountain crowned by the 5-star Metropol Palace.

The rooms are small, most come with a balcony, but we found the mediterranean food at Lucija's delicious and enjoyed walking "downtown" afterwards (in 3 min.) to frequent the ice parlours, cafes or dancing places.

The pool area of the Metropol group is very nice, but do not expect too much from their beach, you'll have to put your towel on pure concrete instead of grass or sand.

Considering the many competitive flight rates (Triest, Venice, Ljubljana, Klagenfurt ...) I would book the hotel directly using M's 10% club card instead of relying on an agency or going all the way by car.

If you want to spend even less money (half pension €45) then go to neighbouring historical Piran or continue to Croatia.