I planned to stay here for 5 days mainly to relax in the room and enjoy the view, so I booked more than 2 months in advance. I also left a note asking for a high floor and a room far from the lift.
But when I checked in, I got a room on the 3rd floor. The patio looked rusty and was very close to the public walkway outside, so people could easily walk past and see into the room. The room also had a really bad smell. Honestly, it smelled like a public toilet after a big event.
I asked if they could relocate me to another room, but they said they couldn’t help. I even asked if I could move for just the last 2 or 3 nights, but still no. They also told me that no matter what request you put in the booking note, it doesn’t affect which room you get.
I felt really disappointed because I booked this place mainly to stay in the room, relax and enjoy the view. I really couldn’t imagine staying there for 5 days with that smell and people walking right outside the balcony.
I told the front desk that I really couldn’t stay in this room for 5 days. At first, they basically told me I could stay or leave, but there would be no refund.
After discussing it for a while, they finally told me they could give me a full refund so I could go and find another place. Because of that, I booked another room and already checked in there.
But later, when the booking platform was processing the refund, I was told the hotel actually did not agree to a full refund.
Honestly, the whole thing became very drama.
They still insisted on charging me one night. I didn’t want this situation to ruin the rest of my holiday, so in the end I just accepted it. I didn’t stay there, but I still paid for one night.
Luckily, I found another apartment in the same building managed by a private host, and it was totally amazing. Same building, but completely different experience.
I learned my lesson from this stay. Booking very early doesn’t mean you will get a better room, and if there are separately managed apartments in the same building, I would definitely compare them carefully before booking.
I just hope the hotel can take better care of the rooms and the overall environment in the future. For me, providing a clean and comfortable place is the most basic respect for guests.
I attached the view from the other apartment I stayed in. The view in this building is actually really nice. I just feel if the hotel takes better care of the rooms and environment, it could be a really good place to stay.
