Fodor's Expert Review Charles Motel & Spa

The inexpensive rooms at the Charles are a favorite among artists and healers who espouse all sorts of interesting and unorthodox approaches to health. Various alternative therapies are practiced. Costs depend on the treatment and its length, but $5 will buy you an hour-long soak in one of the nine indoor soaking tubs fed from natural hot springs ($4 for a half hour). For $8 (and a reservation) you can soak in one of two outdoor Jacuzzis up on the roof. The huge (400-square-foot) guest rooms, many of which have kitchenettes, have so much extra space you can easily imagine settling in for months rather than days; in fact, excellent weekly rates are offered. There is a nice gift shop on the premises with locally made pottery and other goods.