JOEJOURNEYS: Hotel Review

Showing posts with label Hotel Review. Show all posts

August 23, 2013

Why Hotel Lille - Review

Finding the Best Western Premier Why Hotel in Lille is an easy walk from any of the train stations, the facade already hints your about to get into something unusual about a standard hotel, something it definitely is not.

The lobby and entrance is nothing to boast about, it has a restaurant on the main floor and outdoor terrace, a DJ with chill-out music suggests a trendy place to be, something the room interiors definitely deliver.

Oval windows, stylish rooms, big plush beds, LED mood lighting, flat screen TV, modern bathrooms with very unique deep bath and shower that requires a bit of a climb. There is room service available (handy when I discovered my fridge wasn't working and a bucket of ice was delivered). In room coffee maker with proper Nesspresso coffee that always delivers a punch of caffeine.

The Best Western Premier Why Hotel is chic and stylish. The location is ideal, butLille is small anyway, getting around on foot is the best way to see the town. Nearby pedestrian shopping areas and restaurants, and just a short walk from main sites.

Best Western Premier Why Hotel - Booking.com
Best Western Premier Why Hotel - Tripadvisor
Best Western Premier Why Hotel

July 9, 2013

Hotel Galeon Sitges

A post by Joe Mendonca

Having returned year on year to Sitges for my annual holiday from holidays, the Hotel Sitges group offers a selection of hotels in various classes, one of which is Hotel Galeon which at one time was a budget hotel, but now delivers a much more upscale experience, and a reason why I always choose to book here first when I return to Sitges.

When I first stayed in Hotel Galeon the rooms were basic but clean, it delivered excellent value back then, and since renovations and upgrades rooms are now delightfully decorated, comfortable beds, wooden floors and modernised bathrooms, even air conditioning is installed in the rooms for individual control for those that just can't stand the heat.

What I really like is the late breakfasts which are served until 12pm, unheard of in almost any hotel elsewhere. A choice of pillow from soft to firm, and even beach towels and umbrellas are available free (with deposit), saving you valuable luggage space and weight.

Hotel Galeon is my number one choice when I return to Sitges it delivers and is an excellent product conveniently located in the heart of Sitges.

Hotel Galeon - Booking.com
Hotel Galeon - Tripadvisor
Hotel Sitges

June 21, 2013

Cloister Inn Hotel Review - Prague

A post by Joe Mendonca

A three star hotel perfectly located in Prague 1, just a few minutes walk from Old Town Prague and the famous Charles Bridge. For a hotel of this class I was impressed overall by the standards and service. Clean interiors, very good sized room, and free coffee and tea available in the lobby.

Classed as a budget hotel, rooms do not have a bathtub, but are equipped with a small fridge to keep food and drinks cold. All rooms have air conditioning units and climate control, which in summer is essential in Prague if you can't handle the heat.

Breakfast is simple with options of cereals, rolls, small selection of fruit, cold meats and cheeses, boiled eggs and sausage, which is enough to get you started for the day.

I would return to Cloister Inn simply for the location alone, and for being within budget.

Cloister Inn Hotel - Booking.com

May 23, 2013

Radisson Hotel Decapolis Review - Lima

A post by Joe Mendonca

One usually has standards when staying at a chain hotel and Radisson Decapolis Hotel in the safe neigbourhood of Miraflores in Lima is a good option. There was always enough staff on hand to answer your questions, open the doors, or serve you your pisco sour.

The location is excellent, with shopping nearby, fine dining or just want to walk along the cliff top path toward the Locamar centre or Love Park, I found the Radisson Decapolis ideal, chic and stylish with plenty of in-house services to do all you want to do in Lima.

The rooftop patio/bar, with swimming pool and glass enclosed gymnasium is a nice space, and at night becomes a good place to start the night to sip your pisco sours. In the morning the breakfasts surpass many hotels in this class with specialty menu, try the ranchero or Decapolis Special eggs which will waken your taste buds from the start.

The rooms are of excellent size but are not as modern or chic as the entrance or lobby, with a CD clock radio, perhaps it may be due for slight update. However, in no way are the rooms uncomfortable, with enough space to put your luggage away. A large bathroom with shower and bathtub, which ultimately I craved after days of trekking, a good soak and rest. Wifi worked everywhere and TV channels with enough options to view.

Ultimately the Radisson Decapolis is more expensive than others nearby, but places you in a prime spot for getting to know Lima or for a simple stop-over before discovering Peru. The service was attentive and felt cared for, something you don't often get when staying in a hotel of this class.

Radisson Decapolis Hotel - Booking.com

May 22, 2013

Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza Hotel Review

A post by Joe Mendonca

Cusco is a charming city and being near the Plaza de Armas puts you within reach of all the most important places of interest, such is the case when staying at Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza Hotel. Its outdoor terrace offers a great view of the city and the hills which surround it. Booking at Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza Hotel means airport pick-up as well for those just arriving into Cusco.

Upon registering you'll be offered coca tea to help with the altitude sickness that can sometimes hit travellers just arriving, it slowly creeps up on you as it did with me and found myself asleep very early in the evening as my body adjusted to the the new height, but fully recovered and ready the next day.

Despite booking two different types of rooms, a single on the first stay and a double room on subsequent stay, both rooms were identical in size and style. The rooms are a good size however could be small considering there could be two in a room. Bathroom are modern and clean and two bottled waters are included.

Though all rooms have large windows, there is nothing to look out to, most rooms face into courtyards, and having your curtains drawn would mean disclosing everything inside. However most just pass through Cusco and a stay here is ideally located and comfortable, and staff ensure you get on your way on time and requested taxi bookings arrive on time and a price that is correct locally (be warned, taxi drivers will make you think they are offering a fair price, but in fact the actually cost is often less than 50% of what they quote you).

There are more upscale options to stay in Cusco but Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza Hotel is comfortable enough to enjoy and its location is ideal, considering the price too, its not a bad deal after all.

Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza Hotel - Booking.com

May 20, 2013

La Cabana Machu Picchu Hotel Review - Aquas Calientes

A post by Joe Mendonca

High expectations were soon dropped when I discovered the room I actually booked was not the room I got, despite paying the same price for it, and having mentioned this to reception after seeing my room, it was not the problem of the hotel, but rather the booking agent (booking.com) who incorrectly sells the room (apparently).

La Cabana Machu Picchu Hotel is a basic hotel, and Aquas Calientes being a small town, any location would be a good location. Though it does have the advantage of being near the hot springs just up the hill. Check-in was messy, despite having reservations and being picked up at the train station they processed those just off the street/walk-ins first (perhaps giving away my reserved room in the process), quoting the same price to all, which made me wonder how fair this process actually was.

I felt bitter but the room was actually decent enough to enjoy, with an outdoor balcony overlooking the alley below, small bathroom but nice hot shower, and very cosy bed. Breakfasts starts at 5am with check-out at 9am, though I think breakfast should be served sooner, as the queue for the buses up to Machu Picchu are already long at 5am.

Wifi worked, it was clean, good size bedroom, comfy beds and outdoor space, it served its purpose for what most people will spend in Aquas Calientes, one night only.

La Cabana Machu Picchu Hotel - Booking.com

May 14, 2013

Fauna Hotel Valparaiso - Review

Finding the Fauna Hotel was easy, down an ally where cars have no access and along the top of a hill which immediately gave a good view of the town below and the bay.

Unlike traditional buildings the hotel functions from top to bottom, reception/restaurant/terrace at the top, with rooms leading down the multi story building perched along the hill. The outdoor terrace offers a great point of view of the town, and in the morning one can watch the sunrise.

I've opted for the bay view room which has incredibly tall ceilings and windows, wooden floors and open yet separate seating area. A large modern bathroom with glass paneled shower and granite floors. Finding a heater in the room made me happy as winters can be tough if you don't have in room climate control, something my hotel in Santiago did not have. The bed was comfortable, pillows and soft duvet covers to ensure your warm on a cold Chilean winter night. The walls are roughly textured and earth brown as if the rooms were made from cutting into the hillside, organic with specs of mud and hay - a down to earth feeling.

I'm finding little fault with Fauna Hotel, despite having no in room television, it doesn't really bother me, the town is interesting and colourful and just steps away. A funicular is just metres from the door and for only 100 Pesos (approx 20 cents) you can descend or climb easily to the town below.

Favourite thing about Fauna? Having breakfast while the sun rises, the view, decent breakfast, style and comfort in a down to earth bohemian way.

Note: at time of my visit works were underway next door for expansion, which will provide panoramic views and expanded occupancy.

Photos of Fauna Hotel, Valparaiso Chile 2013 © Joe Mendonca

A post by Joe Mendonca

Fauna Hotel on Booking.com
Fauna Hotel on Tripadvisor

May 11, 2013

Mito Casa Hotel Review - Santiago Chile

A post by Joe Mendonca

Mito Casa Hotel is in an excellent location, within walking distant to most sites, city centre and entertainment district of Bellavista, the hotel came as a recommendation from a friend who stayed there a year earlier.

Selecting the economy double room places me in room number one just outside by the garden, which at first had its advantages by not having to go up any stairs, however soon I realised the weaknesses this had. Having a garden flat meant I was directly effected by the cold Chilean winter and with no individual control of room climate, a small heater could have improved this. I soon discovered the wifi was not working or strong enough to receive in my room, and despite mentioning this on my day of arrival nothing was done to rectify it, even after my second return to the hotel later in the week.

My second stay was much better as I had a room on the 3rd floor of the main building with its art deco appearance, a room overlooking the road with in-room sink but private bathroom/shower in the hallway (which is exclusive to you only - not shared).

The great features of Mito Casa Hotel is the location, the style and design, and its intimate feel, more like a bed and breakfast than a hotel. The rooftop terrace offers great views of the area and superb views of the mountain range that encloses Santiago. Location alone sells Mito Casa Hotel however I was slightly disappointed action was not taken from issues I raised on my first stay, for this reason I suggest you stay in the main building.

Photos of Mito Casa Hotel, Santiago Chile 2013 © Joe Mendonca

Mito Casa Hotel - Booking.com
Mito Casa Hotel - Tripadvisor

February 2, 2013

Hetero Friendly Axel Hotel Berlin Review

After the success of Barcelona and Buenos Aires, Axel Hotel, the world's first heterofriendly hotel chain opened the third location in the heart of the gay district of Berlin, a niche upmarket intimate hotel serving mostly gay clientele, and definitely one of the most unique hotel experiences I've had.

Dark and stylish, floor to ceiling mirrors, black painted walls in corridors, bedrooms balanced by white cotton and red accents with upward lighting. The real difference is discovering the room layout has an open plan bathroom where shower and sink area are exposed (except toilet). Immediately when you walk in to your room a red tinted glass reveals the jacuzzi tub and shower behind it, opposite a wall with floor to ceiling mirror, means all is visible to watch whoever may be in the shower or bath. If your traveling with someone you have to be comfortable in your own skin, and not afraid for others to watch.

The spa area on the 6th floor had fitness equipment as well as a wet and dry sauna, with a jacuzzi outside overlooking the city. The whole spa area is glass windows to watch the world outside. The spa is open till 2am.

Rooms have a luxurious and sexy appeal, but there are some things that score low to make this a repeat experience. The wifi signal and network was difficult and unreliable, connecting on a mobile practically impossible, and the iPad struggled to stay connected. Not included in the room rate is standard TV channels, instead of opting to pay for selected movies Axel Hotel Berlin charges extra to activate even common TV, which in my book should be standard.

Axel Hotel Berlin is in a class of its own and very different from conventional hotels. It is an experience and a destination in itself. This is not a place for the conservative individual but rather one who is willing to be more exhibitionist for a change. It is sexy with upmarket appeal, cosmopolitan design with high standards and specs. No sleaze here, rather sophisticated kink.

Axel Hotel Berlin - Booking.com
Axel Hotel Berlin - Tripadvisor
Axel Hotel Berlin

December 7, 2012

PJ Hotel Review - Seoul, South Korea

Traveling with two friends and having to fit three in a room can be challenging when it comes to searching for a hotel, often it means two have to share a bed while one is lucky enough to have their own. With PJ Hotel they had arrangements and rooms which are perfectly suited for sharing, even when there is more than two of you.

I was highly impressed by the rooms which are large and spacious. Having three single beds meant we all could have our own sleeping space. In addition, there is a small entry hall to leave shoes or jackets, a large bathroom with separate glass shower and separate bathtub, and the obligatory electric toilet seats founds in most of Asia (I especially like the heated seat). Particularly nice is a small elevated living space with low table and chairs, an air cleaner, Nespresso coffee maker and coffee capsules, electric kettle and tea (though hot and cold water can also be obtained in the hall area just outside the rooms), safe, and a small fridge supplied with three bottles of water.

As well as a 32 inch HD flat screen TV in the bedroom, the living area also had a small 19 inch TV for separate entertainment. Wifi also enabled and ready to use throughout the hotel, free.

This four star hotel really did deliver comfort and quality, exceptionally well. I wouldn't hesitate to stay again as it is nicely located within walking distance of historic sites and attractions, as well as shopping and unique markets and streets founds near its steps.

Hotels

November 9, 2012

Nh Cavalieri Hotel Review - Pisa Italy

Steps from the main railway station and only 1km from Pisa airport, and a short walk to the old town centre and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. This four star hotel isn't exactly in the best area of town, but it is convenient.

However, the four star rating is exaggerated as it fails to deliver. Though comfortable, I left the hotel feeling let down by the service, a lack of attention, and poorly maintained in-room facilities.

Room 107 was a good size with two twin beds, high ceilings, patio doors with small balcony overlooking the square of the Pisa Central train station. The bathroom was large and clean, a good selection of soap and shower gels. A good size closet, and small desk made this a decent room overall.

The TV turned on, but had no channels or 'no service available at this time' the entire stay. The mini bar fridge wasn't working, leaving me with a selection of overpriced warm drinks. One of the two lamps by the bed did not function. No extra outlets for charging mobiles or electronic devices, except in bathroom where a spare plug for electric shaver was available.

Reception and hallways were modern and clean. The breakfast was a good selection for a hotel in Italy, but nothing exceptional.

Nh Cavalieri served its purpose, but am disappointed the hotel fell short of expectations for a 4 star, but this is Italy where most things are generally over-rated, I shouldn't have expected the quality of Nh Hotels, at least not in Pisa.

September 27, 2012

First Cabin Tokyo Haneda - Review

An alternative option instead of staying at a hotel, First Cabin is a capsule style private room located in Terminal 1 of Tokyo Haneda Airport, perfect for early morning flights, but also available for hire for a few hours, or day use, if you have a long wait for a connecting flight.

I opted for the First Class Cabin of 4.2 square metres, instead of the Business Class Cabin of 2.5 square metres. Divided into men and women areas, once inside I was pleasantly surprised to find a modern clean space with rows of cabins. My cabin Y08 had a double bed, small table and 32' flat screen TV. On the bed towels are folded, headphones for watching TV (so you don't disturb others), a dental kit, and branded pajamas to wear. Even a special adapter is supplied for charging your electronics as others are strictly prohibited due to fire regulations. There is also a safety box for storing valuables under your bed since cabins do not have a door and do not lock for safety reasons, instead pulling on the vertical shutters ensures your privacy.

Extra facilities include PC stations, battery charger for mobiles and laptops, lounge with a separate smoking room, vending machines that offer soft drinks, alcohol, snacks, bread and even noodles. A self-service laundry, bathhouse, showers, and a coin operated massage chair which I especially enjoyed in the spa area.

First Cabin is a well thought out experience and am very impressed by its function and facilities, a great value stay with all the amenities of a hotel, in a cabin style room conveniently located within the airport terminal.

Note: First Cabin is located in Terminal 1 of Tokyo Haneda Airport, not Terminal I (i) the international terminal. When I left First Cabin at 4:30am found myself locked-in the domestic terminal, thanks to a security guard I was escorted outside and luckily found the only passing vehicle, a taxi, and took the short ride to the international terminal in time to catch my very early morning flight.

September 25, 2012

Hotel Century Southern Tower Tokyo - Review

The main feature of staying at Hotel Century Southern Tower is that all 375 guest rooms are located from the 22nd to 35th floor, and offers fabulous views of the skyline of Tokyo.

A double room was a good size, possibly the biggest room I had in all of Japan, with high standards, this was the most luxurious stay I had while visiting. The location itself is ideal as is only steps away from the southern exit of Shinjuku Station, a great base for exploring Tokyo as well within walking distance to what is known as the entertainment district.

The most impressive feature is definitely the window and the view, with a wide aspect, the skyline by day was less impressive, but by night you almost don't want to leave your room as the view just becomes stunning watching the sunset over the city (if you have a west facing room).

However, you do pay more to stay at Hotel Century Southern Tower but in return you get an outstanding service and view. With in room wifi (rare in Japan), large bed, decent room, great bathroom, and spotless interiors.

Hotel Century Southern Tower is a good option is your sharing or traveling as two. I used it as a treat to end my trip to Japan, and will always remember sitting in my room with the lights out, sipping my sake, looking out at the twinkling city lights below.