The small, outdated property is located in a residential community and lacks a reception office, so guests of the Halcyon Palm have to check in at sister resort Travellers Palm. There, a small staff can help arrange excursions and there's an area stocked with beverages and snacks for sale. The Halcyon is more like a compact condo complex, featuring some tropical vegetation and two-story coral buildings with mint-green detailing that make a "U" shape around the outdoor pool. Wear and tear is visible throughout, but the hotel's setting is quiet and most guests tend to be low-key couples that appreciate the affordable rates in a pricey area of Barbados. 

Halcyon Palm is located in the parish of St. James on the west coast of Barbados -- a 40-minute drive from Grantley Adams International Airport. This residential area is inland, but just a five-minute walk to the beach (all beaches are public in Barbados). The area is technically called Sunset Crest but guests will likely be more attracted to the fact that it is a mile from the center of Holetown -- a historic spot where British settlers first landed and claimed the island. Today, Holetown has the best hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops in Barbados. Nearby shopping plazas also offer conveniences such as groceries, alcohol, and ATM machines.

There's free street parking in front of the hotel, or a local bus stop is about a five-minute walk away. Bus fares, no matter how long the journey, cost $1 in either direction. The capital of Bridgetown and Speightstown can both be reached in about 20 minutes by bus. 

Halcyon Palm has 25 one-bedroom apartments, which are decorated with dated furnishings, white tile, and pieces of artwork that give the spaces a homey vibe. The ample white wooden furniture, glass doors, and mostly white linens help keep the units bright and cheerful despite them showing their age. The layout includes a separate living room with pullout sofa, kitchenette, and a set of French doors that lead to a furnished patio. 

Kitchenettes have the basic necessities, including microwaves, stovetops, and coffeemakers, though some may have incomplete sets of dishes, cutlery, and cooking utensils. Old microwaves and tube-style TVs are the most obvious amenities in need of replacing. Bathrooms, on the other hand, are more modern and have walk-in glass showers. Rooms have fans, but it will cost extra for air-conditioners and in-room safes. Guests can also request cots and starter food packages. 

Also available at the sister property is a luxurious three-bedroom unit called The Palms Penthouse. It has contemporary decor, high ceilings, modern fixtures, flat-screen TVs, and marble countertops. The gorgeous open-plan kitchen has top-of-the-line appliances, along with a sophisticated dining area and outdoor porch. 

Since Halcyon is more like a condominium than a hotel, the only on-site amenity is a small rectangular pool with loungers and a few umbrellas. Guests can also walk a few blocks and use the slightly bigger pool at the Travellers Palm. The closest beaches are within walking distance -- about five to 10 minutes away by foot. A popular option is the available beach club pass (requires a refundable deposit), which offers access to the adjacent Beach House  -- featuring a beachfront, pool, bar, and restaurant. All beaches in Barbados are public, but beach towels are only available for purchase at the Halcyon.

The closest restaurant is Travellers Palm's all-day, open-air spot with ceramic tiles and brightly colored linens, plus a small bar stocked with basic liquors. Also located at the sister property is a small mini-mart with beverages and snacks for sale. A walk or bus ride into Holetown offers much more choice for restaurants and nightlife, as well as a supermarket, shopping, the Limegrove Center with designer brands, and a movie theater. Local dining packages are available -- ask the staff to describe the prepaid voucher system for participating restaurants. 

Wi-Fi is available for a fee.