MelbourneSeeTheWorld
16. elokuuta 2024
I don’t enjoy writing negative reviews though as a long time user and contributor on TripAdvisor it is important readers have a chance to be informed before booking that next great holiday. For me first impressions are everything and checkin tends to set the tone of the place you are staying. Regrettably, I was not impressed. The reception is hot and uninviting. Not even a fan to allow air to circulate. We had however done our research on TripAdvisor and months prior to arriving we specifically requested an upstairs deluxe room. It seemed to have that little extra privacy as well as a small balcony where you could sit in the evening. It was unacceptable that the written confirmation of our request was no longer possible as all rooms were full. No apologies. Just suck it up. (Strike 1). We had a hint that this was more a budget hotel than a ‘resort’ when we had to struggle with our luggage off the bus and were asked by the desk clerk if we needed assistance to have our two large cases taken up the stone pathway to our room. The handyman, gardener, pseudo security, lost sole that wanders the place somewhat begrudgingly took our heavy bags to our room. Hello! (Strike 2). We were also asked as part of the checkin process whether we wanted our rooms serviced each day. We were now getting very worried that we had made a big mistake. You need to consider that in Costa Rica there are notices in all the places we have stayed including The Falls, not to flush toilet paper down the toilet. Apparently septic systems in most places are not at a plumbing standard (i.e. lack macerating pump systems) that can cope with paper in their septic systems. Rather, a small bin is provided in the bathroom for such materials to be deposited. Servicing a room in a tropical climate is not an opt in decision. Consider me precious but what are they thinking? Finally the piece de resistance was our room. We had entered a time warp. The room was very, very dated. The dusty mosquito netting over our bed would be an asthmatic’s nightmare. Some of the bathroom fittings were barely secured to the wall and the very small room safe with key(optional request at checkin) was puzzling. At least the aircon worked. As for the desire to sit outside on our porch/walkway in the evening this was a challenge. The ground floor room we were provided (10) is strategically located next to the underground septic tanks. Personally sitting outside with wafts of sewerage emanating from the tank vents was a deal breaker. (Strike 3). I suspect the reason we did not get the room as confirmed was that people arriving before us complained about the smell. The staff (except reception) were friendly enough though they seriously need training in hospitality. Being on their mobile phones during service is not a good look. ‘Chef’ nibbling on food in the kitchen while preparing your meal is poor practice. Clearing your plate while your fork is still in your mouth is a fail in hospitality 101. If you want a drink
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