Le Club Accorhotels - The "Please post your Le Club Elite experiences" 2012 master thread




starflyergold
Dec 31, 11, 3:17 pm
As last year post your mini review/experiences as A-Club silver/gold/platinum here. For full reviews please post in the existing thread or start a new one if the hotel does not show up in a search.


tycosiao
Jan 1, 12, 4:33 am
My honour to kickstart this thread for the brand new year :D

- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked executive mountain view room and upgraded to a suite (Entry level suite I guess)

- How are the rooms?
An average sized suite for Chinese standards.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Platinum recognition, upgrade, Location to Wulingyuan scenic area. I would put a 15minutes walk to the entrace of Wulingyuan. No DCC. 8 bottles of water replenished everyday.

Bad: When I inquired about Wulingyuan, front desk wanted to sell me a map for 5 yuan, realised that my room has a map, I went to take it. When checking out, they wanted to sell me a map for 10 yuan. Not much, but I did not want to pay for a map. It should be a service to guests so I made some noises to the manager, she waived it off.

Lounge was closed as well but it should be opened during the peak period.

Despite the mountain view booking, there was no view and when I asked about it, they said due to construction of a new hotel next door. The right wing of the hotel has the view but it was not opened too. However, the view around the hotel is nowhere near the view up at the mountains. So not too hard about this.


- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Yes, at 1.3k CNY for 3 nights with breakfast included. Good value for a UNESCO heritage site hotel near the scenic spot.

RJ77
Jan 2, 12, 10:24 pm
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
It was ok.

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked two executive club rooms, both were upgraded to Executive Suites upon request.

- How are the rooms?
An average sized suite with Indian/Moorish designs and motifs. It's got a sitting area and one toilet near the entrance and a bathroom/toilet on the other side.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Tranquil settings, like a resort. It's a good place for city folks in Kuala Lumpur to wind down which a short driving distance of 30 minutes. Other than that, Putrajaya hasn't got much going. It has four wings, go for the Rafflesia wing , lakeside view. I had the Jasmine wing which has no view to talk about, except a view of the road and a lone government building.

Was told by family member the Spa is superb. Had a walk through the facilities, the spa rooms were nicely furnished.


Bad:
One of the suite's air-conditioning wasn't working at optimal conditions. Not cold enough for the Tropics, hence room has a slight musty smell. Bathroom upkeep needs to be improved, fittings were missing, hot water took ages. Platinum recognition wasn't consistent, basically it's just the room upgrade. No welcome amenity. What was given was included in any club room benefit like welcome drink and fruit basket. The "fruit basket" was basically a plate of apples, more specifically, 3 apples: one red, one green and a yellow/red from a certain temperate country. Now this is a tropical country where fruits are abundant,I think the presentation was a joke. Certainly not my idea of "fruit basket". And almost expectedly, no turn down service was done.

Exec lounge wasn't attended on my first day there, wanted a drink, the fridges were literally locked! Had to request from the lobby bar. Cocktail hour, let's just say there's no cocktail to be served, one can help oneself with a Campari and some half empty wines. Hot foods were tasty though, with fried calamari, fried rice etc.



- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

. I used my redeemed vouchers for this stay. As it was new year's eve, I couldn't utilize my Accor Advantage Plus 50% discount coupon for group dining, so forced to pay full price on their NYE dinners. Maybe on a normal day/weekend where I can use my vouchers extensively, the value will be better.


af fp
Jan 6, 12, 8:34 am
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum (first time use, comp'ed platinum due to being Flying Blue platinum).

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
It was good, could have been better.

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Did not book the cheapest room. I had booked a better room with Beverly Hills view for about $50 more per night. No upgrade but I did not ask at check-in.

- How are the rooms?
Not large. Nice view and amenities, beautiful bathroom.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Nice room, good restaurant, nice staff. Nice pool, once you find it.
I quicly received a mail confirming the points I got and that they would be transferred to my Flying Blue account.

Bad:
Expensive! For two nights, one breakfast for two and one dinner for two, plus valet parking (no choice), it cost about $1,000.

Plat recognition: they had to find my A-Club number after I checked in and it might be why they did not know I was plat and did not upgrade me. The only advantage I got was that after they found out I am platinum, they slipped two drink coupons under the door, which only get you a cheaper cocktail or a bad bubbly. Not great when you know that DSK was given a full bottle of Dom Perignon at the NY property...


- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

It's a nice hotel and as it was the new year I understand it was expensive, but the treatment I got as a plat was underwhelming, it is not enough for me to put the Sofitel high on my priority list next time I go to LA.

starflyergold
Jan 6, 12, 4:12 pm
The only advantage I got was that after they found out I am platinum, they slipped two drink coupons under the door, which only get you a cheaper cocktail or a bad bubbly.

Please tell me they don't say it is only valid for cheap plonk? :confused:

calvinoeh
Jan 20, 12, 6:55 am
What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest Room. Asked for upgrade during check in but denied citing hotel was full.

- How are the rooms?
Adequate. Nothing too spectacular.

- What was good and what was bad?
Loved the location right by Wangfujing.

Full review and some pics posted on my blog. (http://lydvin.blogspot.com/2012/01/winter-in-china-novotel-beijing-peace.html)

pieterde
Jan 25, 12, 3:38 am
What is your A|Club status?
Platinum Favorite Guest Business.

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, very.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Superior Queen, got upgraded to Luxury Queen on the 3rd floor.

How are the rooms?
Not overly spacious. Modern design, clean, functional. Some wear and tear here and there, more in the corridors than the room itself.

What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Very friendly staff.
Excellent service in the rooftop restaurant. I even went to the lengths of writing to the management to compliment them on the restaurant staff.

Bad:
It being an airport hotel, I had hoped to have a view on the runways from the room. As it was, from my room the view was very limited.

Plat recognition:
Got the upgrade, drink voucher and in room present without asking. Perfect!

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
It's a perfect solution if you arrive late at night or have an early morning flight. It is not the best solution for tourism in Athens.
I found the price in line with the quality and service offered.
When needing to stay close to the airport, I would certainly return.

af fp
Jan 26, 12, 1:19 pm
Please tell me they don't say it is only valid for cheap plonk? :confused:

House drinks only :td:

brenrox
Jan 27, 12, 12:42 pm
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Only 'standard' rooms available

- How are the rooms?
Quite big, but also dated

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Given room on top floor. Quiet. Free Parking

Bad: Found syringe under bed side table when checking to see I had everything on departing. Have written to manager and told staff on departure (who couldn't care less). Will post on TA if no response hear within one month.


- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Yea and no

virtualaris
Jan 27, 12, 5:05 pm
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked two superior at Premier Floor (both upgraded to Executive at Premier Floor using Advantage Plus Room Upgrade Vouchers + without any problems)

- How are the rooms?
Average size 32m but seems more spacious than the actual size.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Got complimentary Pocari Sweat, some peanuts, and ordinary mineral waters, asked for taxi but were escorted to their hotel car and told it's free (presumably after I mentioned my room number; which is executive room;) ). staffs are polite and mentioned my name everytime I entered the lounge.

Bad: The premier lounge didn't have free drinks all day, they only provide during afternoon hi-tea (4pm-6pm)

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Yes, I booked during supersale and it was only 42 USD per nite (net of taxes) for superior at premier floor. Book them during early breaks promotion; very good deal ^

starflyergold
Jan 30, 12, 2:33 am
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
It was just about ok.

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked suite, no upgrade offered.

- How are the rooms?
Nice suite, showing age a little, still nice.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Location, Club Sofitel lounge


Bad:
Entry lobby not available due to construction work. Some lounge staff were trainees with little English.


- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Good value, probably won't return after this trip.

CL63
Jan 31, 12, 7:02 pm
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
No

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Luxury Room (best "room" category before Suites),.. no upgrade

- How are the rooms?
Furnished very well to the highest standard, top of the line hi-tech equipment. Huge bed, very comfortable. However I doubt it has the announced 35m² (abt 375 ft²). The bathroom is a big disappointment, since it is about 1 by 4 meters (3 by 12 ft), which is just too tiny for a shower, a bathtub, a toilette and a mini sink. No space to get dressed or even put your wash bag at.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Location. View on the channel. Room, especially quality and design of interior. Housekeeping and Maintenance Service (professional and very quick).

Bad:
Getting there i didnt have my Plat Card with me, but my account number saved in my mobile phone. Spelling it to them, writing it down and mentioning the Platinum Status, we didnt get an upgrade, no vouchers, no perks, nothing. We even had to fight for a 2 PM check out for 2 days later, although the Hotel was only maybe 25% occupied.

Ordered In-Room breakfast for 2, one continental breakfast for me and fruitplatter, orangejuice and birchermusli for the girl. The tray was decorated for one person. orangejuice was not freshly squeezed, birchermusli was a bowl with dry musli + milk and jourghurt on the side (guess they never heard of "BIRCHER"-musli) and the fruitplatter (for 9 EUR / 13 USD) was a little bowl of a 50 cent Walmart fruit punch can.

After 3 weeks I called Service and asked why the points havent been added to my account yet. Turned out they didnt even put in my Aclub number into the system at the hotel.

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
No,... reception staff was quite rude and always gave you the feeling that you are allowed to stay there instead of making you feel welcome. The bill for 2 rooms for 2 nights was 1,877 EUR (abt 2,600 USD), which might have been ok, if everything would have been ok, but for the treatment and service recived, they wont see me again. We stayed at 2 other hotels in that area within a distance of 500 meters (Hotel De L'Europe and Conservatorium Hotel Amsterdam) which were both stunning and similar price range with a lot more perks, even with no loyalty program membership or existence.

Accor Concierge
Feb 8, 12, 7:38 am
-
Have written to manager and told staff on departure (who couldn't care less). Will post on TA if no response hear within one month.


Hi,
Have you received a response from the hotel? If not, could you please PM me your email adress, name and the dates of your stay? I will transfer your request to the concerned department. Thank you!




After 3 weeks I called Service and asked why the points havent been added to my account yet. Turned out they didnt even put in my Aclub number into the system at the hotel.


Hi,
Has our service customer credited your missing points? If not, could you please PM me your A|Club number as well as the dates of your stay. Thank you and sorry for the inconvenience!
Christopher

SouthWesterner
Feb 8, 12, 10:44 am
- What is your A|Club status?
Gold

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Superior Queen Plus. Upgraded to Executive King without having to ask.

- How are the rooms?
Very good. Spacious by London standards, very comfortable bed with good quality linen and good pillows. Fairly nice bathroom, but the shelf was a little narrow and the toiletries, although nice, were in bottles attached to the wall of the shower. I would have preferred small, individual bottles, a la Sofitel.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Room upgrade and drink voucher given without prompt.
Billing issue (see below) sorted out with no fuss by deeply apologetic manager.
Excellent concierge and very friendly, attentive staff throughout the hotel (desk, bar and restaurant)
Great bed.
Received an inexplicably large number of A|Club points (I'm hoping this doesn't mean they're going to send me a bill me for something - I didn't touch the minibar!)

Bad:
Got billed for breakfast despite this being included in rate. Sorted out with no fuss though.
No gift (chocs, fruit, etc)

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Certainly would. I thought St. Ermin's was an excellent value alternative to the Sofitel - paid £182 including breakfast, which I consider quite reasonable for this class of hotel in London. Good room size, well located but still quiet (just around the corner from St. James' Park Tube, within spitting distance of New Scotland Yard, but set back from the street at the end of its own drive)

CL63
Feb 8, 12, 10:57 pm
Hi,
Has our service customer credited your missing points? If not, could you please PM me your A|Club number as well as the dates of your stay. Thank you and sorry for the inconvenience!
Christopher
Yes, missing points were credited the same day.

Accor Concierge
Feb 9, 12, 2:23 am
Great! Happy to hear it.
Christopher
Yes, missing points were credited the same day.

chentaiman
Feb 12, 12, 5:49 am
What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest Room. Upgraded to Executive room

- How are the rooms?
I find the washroom to be small for an executive room

- What was good and what was bad?
Good
Location is the only selling point as I left my room at 7:35am for my 8:30 flight.
Bad
the room was way too warm. Thermostat is useless. I have to turn off the a/c but I was still sweating during my sleep

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
I'd say ok. Just occupied the room for 9 hours, will return if I have to fly out of Baiyun for early morning flight.

ak37
Feb 17, 12, 7:42 am
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a superior twin bed, upgraded to a Deluxe Queen in Executive Floor with Lounge Access.

- How are the rooms?
Good as always, might be a bit small for some. It has an open bath room and the shower is practically in the middle of the room. Need to be aware if you're planning to share with anyone but your spouse.

- What was good and what was bad?
Platinum recognition, upgrade to executive floor. Very good service in the executive lounge. Didn't get any welcome gift on my most recent stay but I got a calendar last January. Hotel is literally next door to the Central Park shopping mall.

Bad: Traffic Jam, but it's the same anywhere in Jakarta.

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Yes. Very good value, booked the standard room on a discounted rate (SQ promotion) and upgraded to an executive floor with lounge.

yorkboy24
Feb 17, 12, 5:53 pm
What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Not quite.

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Deluxe. Got upgrade to Executive floor but ended up in a Superior Room because Deluxe rooms don't face the park which is bizarre! Club benefits included.
. Late checkout offered
· Welcome drink given
· Welcome gift promised on Monday as office was closed but was not followed up / given.


- How are the rooms?
Modern and clean (it's a new hotel) but quite a few small issues:

I was given a Superior room when I booked a Deluxe room (but it seems the Superior rooms are better as they face the park!).
· Cups for espresso machine are too big.
· Minibar is overpriced for Indonesia, (e.g. almost 6USD for a can of coca cola!) especially with Hypermarket downstairs, the hotel should consider pricing at more reasonable levels. In addition, on Executive floor, the same drinks are available in the lounge, thus, a complimentary minibar would be better for executive floor.
· Toiletries are standard Pullman ones - usually the Club Floor would have premium toiletries. Bois D’Orange (Roger et Gallet) range is used at the Pullman, Bangkok. Other executive floors usually provide L’Occitane toiletries. I later found out that only the Executive Suites contain the luxury Bois D'Orange toiletries.
· All TV channels were unavailable for short periods one evening (26/01 2am - 3am), then kept coming back on, and off again.
· Broadband and Wireless internet is not up to international standards - it is not possible to play a short YouTube clip without it stopping (on lowest 240 quality).
· Shower oscillates between hot and cold if you turn the water to lukewarm mode.
· Shower door opens inwards which is problematic if you wait for the water to heat up in rainforest mode, as when you get in the shower the outside of the door gets wet and leaks onto the bathroom floor. Also, as the towel rack is positioned on the outside of the shower door, your towel gets wet too!

Housekeeping

Coffee pods not filled up on 2nd day·
On 2nd day, only very small bottles of complimentary water given (half the size of the bottles given on other days)
Cotton buds disposed of when packet not used up, then not replaced for 2 nights.·
Crumbs were still visible under the desk – this area had not been vacuumed properly.·
It took 3 phone calls to arrange a shoe shine (but when it was arranged, it was good).·
One morning, I forgot to put the ‘Do not disturb’ sign on. Housekeeping rang the bell and then opened the door and came in the room while I was just approaching the door to answer it.


Executive lounge·
Egg menu for breakfast would improve the experience.
· Excellent range of fresh juices, however, sometimes it is difficult to know what they are. Labeling them would really help.
· International labeling (English) or multi-lingual would be better, as things like ‘Srikaya Bao’ would not be known by non-Indonesians. Even the Chinese translation ‘Lai Wong Bao’ would not be sufficient. Perhaps ‘Sweet custard bun’ or ‘Milk Yolk Bun’ would be better. Also, there were some English language errors, such as ‘Sweat and Sour Chicken’ (should be ‘sweet’). Once this was pointed out, it was replaced with the Indonesian translation!
· Spoons for the muesli / yoghurt in the small pots should be placed nearby (they are currently near the coffee machine).
· Consider moving the glasses to the same level as the juice.
· Evening cocktails – half way through my stay, the hotel changed its policy for ‘Cocktail Hour’ to only allow the drinks stocked in the lounge to be consumed (previously, any drink on the bar menu was available but these had to be made on the ground floor and took 20 mins to serve each time). Unfortunately, this means that there is a limited range of drinks available compared to other Executive lounges such as other Pullman and Sofitel hotels in Asia. Now, there are no cocktails available and only a limited number of spirits (4 bottles in total on display). The best solution would be to produce a different menu (on 2 pages) with the list of beers, wines, spirits, cocktails and soft drinks available during ‘Cocktail Hour’. This would provide a much better experience for the guest.
· The breakfast range is rather limited compared to Collage restaurant. Although guests on the Executive floor can choose to go to Collage for breakfast, having breakfast in the Executive lounge should provide a more unique experience. Unfortunately, the only difference is that fresh juice is available in the lounge and that the food selection is minimal. This is understandable if the room occupancy is low. However, it might be worthwhile to also have a simple two page breakfast menu in the lounge with the different egg choices and other dishes that are available downstairs in Collage but not in the lounge (e.g. Japanese options, dim sum, waffles, pancakes and so on). Then, the breakfast buffet in the lounge would not serve the hot items but focus more on more pastries, fruit, smoked salmon options.
· The soft drinks often take a while to serve in the lounge if there is no ice available. Sufficient ice should be stored in the executive lounge and one staff member should be able to make simple cocktails there. If soft drinks run low, they should be filled up in the fridge on a regular basis, rather than waiting for a guest to order one and tell them they need to get it from downstairs!
· More choice of business magazines in the lounge, e.g. Economist, could be considered.

Hammam / Changing room in Spa·
My locker didn’t have a towel in it. Had to request one. Extra towels should be made available in the changing room – it appears that the hotel is economizing and not making towels readily available in the changing rooms.
· No water machine available in changing rooms – it is usual for 5-star hotels to provide drinking water in the changing rooms or even some tea, especially after coming out of a steam room.
· The showers in the changing rooms were cold. Even after running the water for 5 minutes on full ‘H’, the water was still cold.
· The design of the entrance had not been given any practical thought. If there are a few guests getting changed in the changing room and a new guest arrives during that time, when the door is opened, those walking down the corridor from the spa towards the life can clearly see inside the changing rooms. This could be potentially embarrassing.
· No tissues are available in the changing rooms.
· There should be a disposable box for the hand towels directly under the sink, as otherwise, the only place to dispose them is in the big basket in the locker area. Perhaps a basket could cover the drain under the sink and be used for disposing of the hand towels.

Positive Aspects of the hotel

Although the points above indicate that the Pullman Central Park Jakarta has not yet reached the level of other Pullman hotels in Asia, it is clear that this hotel has the following advantages that will go a long way in ensuring that it reaches comparable standards:
· The location in Central Park is a great asset to the hotel, as it means that dining and entertainment options and all easily accessible to the guest – something that is rate in Jakarta.
· The staff in all departments strive to make the guest’s stay as relaxing and enjoyable as possible, albeit with some of the constraints outlined above. It is clear that Anya and Helebid (not sure how to spell it but he replaced Anya during the Cocktail hour on Monday and Tuesday and usually works for in-house dining) are an asset to the hotel in that their personal approach to serving guests is both personal and efficient. Among the many hotels I have stayed in, the two employees mentioned above rate among the top. It was also surprising that one member of the housekeeping team greeted me by name as I passed a room he was cleaning on my way to the life – this certainly surpassed my expectations as housekeeping rarely has contact with guests.
· Collage restaurant – the food here is exceptional, with a wide range of international food available.

So, these are the 3 assets, the location, the food and most importantly, the staff. With a number of minor improvements to facilities (mentioned above) and more consistent service delivery in housekeeping, this hotel would certainly meet the expectation of any seasoned traveler.

IMH
Feb 19, 12, 8:04 am
Pullman Central Park Jakarta

Nice review, thanks. Could you perhaps edit your post so that the hotel name appears at the top, ideally in bold type?

starflyergold
Feb 19, 12, 8:36 am
Or your moderator could do the same thing :)

Cupart
Feb 21, 12, 12:31 am
Pullman Central Park Jakarta

Great review with some excellent observations.

You should send this directly to the hotel and I'm sure they will do whatever they can to rectify it as as you have some very straight forward and quite simple solutions to the errors/faults you found (bar the irritating shower door opening inwards and water temperature fluctuating that is :mad:) ^^^

Cupart
Feb 21, 12, 12:31 am
Or your moderator could do the same thing :)

:D:D:D

BoldTravel
Mar 2, 12, 11:46 pm
- What is your A|Club status?
Gold
- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked superior room and received it

- How are the rooms?
An average sized room.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Hotel is very inexpensive

Bad: No Elite recognition whatsoever. I asked if an upgrade was possible and the person at the counter promptly said no. When I asked if my card number was in the system all he said was yes. I then asked again for an upgrade and he said the elite cards dont work at the novotel regardless of what it says online.

Hotel is located near an industrial park and near a busy highway so it can get quite noisy. Hotel is also extremely hard to get to if you are not familiar with the area

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

It is good value and despite having zero recognition for status I would return simply because it is cheap

virtualaris
Mar 6, 12, 2:52 pm
What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes.

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked two Executive Deluxe rooms (the highest category in the hotel) and one Deluxe room. I booked one Deluxe room so it could have connected to the another Executive Deluxe. There aren't many connecting room available on this hotel, mostly superior.
. Inputting 1 year old child on the reservation system, and surprisingly...one of the room has bathtub for the children (on room number 718)
. Asking for late check-out until 1 pm, the hotel staff seems objected and after saying I usually got flexible check out on other Accor hotels since I'm platinum, the staff told me that they would be very happy to offer check-out until 3 pm. ;)
. Got welcome drinks for all of the rooms (6 persons)
. Free parking
. The connecting rooms on the 18th floor (the highest floor) were still hold for us despite our late arrival (after 6 pm).

- How are the rooms?
The rooms on 18th floor offer city panoramic view, we could see National Monument (Monas) from the distance and also flashing neon from nearby Paragon. While the room on 7th floor has 180 degree view to swimming pool. The Executive Deluxe is very spacious, 56 m2, while the Deluxe room probably around 40m2.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good: Weekly Dim Sum Buffet Lunch is very good in terms of value and taste, 76,000 IDR/person (8.50 USD/person) is unbelievable !! Even in Ibis Jakarta Slipi would costs 120,000 IDR/person (excluding drinks). The Dim Sum Buffet Lunch offers variety of Dim Sum, hot and cold dishes, deserts, and free hot and iced tea. A|Club points were posted on the same day. They said that they input all the points everyday at 10 pm, which is a good news. ^

Bad: Mediocre buffet breakfast, Staffs are not trying to be friendly even-though I'm not saying they are not friendly, just not trying to..

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Good value, probably will return but just for dining.

starflyergold
Mar 14, 12, 7:51 am
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Generally happy

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Grand Deluxe, no upgrade offered. Hotel explanation: The next best room jumps a category hence no upgrade. Questioned it (including with the GM) but no. Even Accor APAC could not change this but noted that they will follow this up. However the hotel provided a free dinner for 2 which was great. GM joined us for a glass of wine during dinner and was very helpful.

- How are the rooms?
Nice, effectively a suite, showing age a little. Not exactly spotless, stains on table and windows had finger prints on them.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Location (away from the tourist madness), restaurant.

Bad:
The unclear upgrade policy which only serves to disappoint elites. No free WiFi

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Good value, will return once upgrade policy is clarified. Like this hotel better than the MGallery Muse in BKK.

(stay was Jan 2012)

luv_flying
Mar 15, 12, 6:31 am
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Generally happy

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Grand Deluxe, no upgrade offered. Hotel explanation: The next best room jumps a category hence no upgrade. Questioned it (including with the GM) but no. Even Accor APAC could not change this but noted that they will follow this up. However the hotel provided a free dinner for 2 which was great. GM joined us for a glass of wine during dinner and was very helpful.

- How are the rooms?
Nice, effectively a suite, showing age a little. Not exactly spotless, stains on table and windows had finger prints on them.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Location (away from the tourist madness), restaurant.

Bad:
The unclear upgrade policy which only serves to disappoint elites. No free WiFi

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Good value, will return once upgrade policy is clarified. Like this hotel better than the MGallery Muse in BKK.

(stay was Jan 2012)

GM having wine with you? Cool~

chistery
Mar 23, 12, 12:24 pm
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, standard Sofitel room

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Luxury Room (king, high floor) and given junior suite (without asking, low floor). Not sure how the lower floors can be described as city views unless that's a view of a building opposite. Asked back at reception and moved to a high floor. Why not just allocate highest first? They claim they only give high floors on request. Drinks vouchers handed over without asking.

Late check out requested till 2pm, offered 1pm, being Platinum didn't seem to matter much but eventually they agreed.

No welcome gift. I asked what it would have been and told they don't offer welcome gifts just drinks. On check out, the same receptionist said the welcome gift was noted on the account as chocolates to be sent to the room, but they didn't arrive. Maybe they went to my original room.

- How are the rooms?
The usual Sofitel decor. Having just come from the IC TS, I missed extras such as power sockets built into the bedside lamps. No iPod dock/charger, etc. No accessible plugs by bed. Lovely Hermes products in bathroom

- What was good and what was bad?
Good: Staff, all very friendly and professional
Bad: Wifi reception very poor in room. Some areas I couldn't get a signal, others it kept dropping out. Also don't like tiered internet access. Just give it free, not dial up speeds for free, make you pay for anything more. I heard others complaining about AT&T signal issues, T-Mobile isn't much better. Maybe something with the way the building is constructed?

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
I rebooked on a 3 for 2 rate that appeared just before I went, so a good rate. I'd return if rates were competitive.

delanotre
Mar 25, 12, 3:59 am
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked executive deluxe room and upgraded to a junior suite

- How are the rooms?
great, 2 big size rooms with beautiful bathroom, with jaccuzzi bath and shower separate

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Platinum recognition, upgrade, airport KAL limousine for Won 15000.
2 bottles of water everyday.
plate with fruit the first day
Excellent breakfast in the executive lounge
Happy hours from 6pm to 8pm, that can do an excellent dinner if you need...
free navette to town center each hour
Metro at 5 minutes

Bad:
nothing

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Yes. I returned 4 weeks after but not upgraded for room (the hotel were full)
no problem for me: all people are very professional and kind.
My favorite hotel in Seoul.

starflyergold
Mar 29, 12, 1:05 am
- What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Decidedly underwhelmed.

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Classic room, apparently upgraded to superior, no noticeable difference

- How are the rooms?
OK but lacking typical Sofitel amenities such as Bose radio, minibar. Duvet is thin.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Location

Bad:
No welcome back, unclear upgrade, first room looked like someone had slept in the bed so needed to change, no newspaper in the morning, no welcome gift. First night flowers in bathroom, second and third night they were gone :confused: Late check out had to be argued over and only managed 2pm.

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Value was this time not so good, probably return because it is convenient for me.

virtualaris
Mar 29, 12, 6:19 am
- What is your A|Club status?
Booked as Platinum; check-in as Gold

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked three Deluxe rooms (without breakfast) and all of three rooms were upgraded to Superior Executive; including breakfast and pre-dinner cocktail.

- How are the rooms?
Got Superior Executive means that your room would be smaller (30m) than the previous one (Deluxe = 32m2). The room is little bit small since there are too many things around. However, the view is beautiful; overlooking to Tribeca Park

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
1. Three of my rooms were upgraded despite the hotel occupancy was 100% on that time. It seems that they have allocated the rooms to be upgraded.
2. Fruit Platter, Macaroon, Tiramisu, and Salmon on all of my rooms ^
3. Got Calendar as welcome gift; plus they gave me mousepad since I didn't get the calendar until I checked-out :)
4. Staffs are friendly

Bad:
1. Superior room is a little bit small; actually 30 m2 is enough but I think the room design makes it seem smaller than the actual.
2. I booked the room under Pullman-HSBC offers and as predicted, they didn't know that Advantage Plus member would receive additional 10% discount on accomodation upon check-out, however the problem was solved by fantastic Executive Lounge Staffs.
3. The Executive Lounge only provides free drinks during pre-dinner cocktail (6pm-8pm), other than these hours...all of the soft drinks are chargable; only tea and coffee were complimentary.

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes. For Sure

PhilUSA
Mar 29, 12, 1:35 pm
Novotel Avignon Centre
________________________________________

- What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Standard Executive Room and received Standard Executive Room. I was told by the check-in staff that they don't do upgrades here.

- How are the rooms?
This hotel was upgraded a few months ago and hence the rooms were without a flaw. Very clean all new. I liked a new feature where a milk glass between the main room and the bathroom turns milky by the click of a button and reverse to see through. Very fancy. Other than that all standard Novotel amenities and a very good selection of TV channels. Designer lights in the main room also very cool.

- What was good and what was bad?

Good:
In house Spa (very good massage treatment received)
Location

Bad:
No Le Club Platinum recognition whatsoever
Check-In welcome procedure rather clunky and unfriendly

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Would return for the clean and modern rooms and the Spa

krausolany
Apr 2, 12, 1:51 pm
What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes.

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked standard room and that's what I got.

- How are the rooms?
The rooms are all renovated and very nice. Rooms towards the street are pretty noisy due to the tram. Very comfotable bed and great TV.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
-Excellent breakfast with fresh juices and fruits
-Great TV with FREE pay TV
-Good location in a great city
-perfect public transportation available
-Welcome gift every other stay
-Empty fridge so you can BYO
-Food quality in the restaurant is excellent

Bad:
- Noise from the street

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Not cheap, but good value for Duesseldorf. I surely will return

chentaiman
Apr 9, 12, 9:03 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
NO

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Superior Seaview and got exactly that. No upgrade as they claim rooms are tight. However, they are selling all sorts of room online.

- How are the rooms?
This hotel is about 1.5yrs old but the rooms are already run down. Walls are moldy and ants all around.

- What was good and what was bad?

Good:
cheap rate.

Bad:
No Le Club Platinum recognition whatsoever
Check-In welcome procedure sloppy. No welcome drink, no welcome gift. No RECOGNITION PERIOD.
Asked for late checkout, but again turned down.
Willing to pay for half day, but the check in staff actually told me to do it online. I am not sure if he was just brushing me off or what. How on earth will one be able to book half a day online?

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Plenty of nice hotels here. Will not come back and will tell all my friends to avoid this ...... place.

Accor Concierge
Apr 10, 12, 3:58 am
Hello chentaiman,

I'm sorry to hear that you had such a poor experience. I will relay your comments to the proper department within the Accor group, which will be sure to address this matter.

In the meantime, please continue to share your experiences with us, as this helps us provide a better service for our guests at accorhotels establishments.

Thank you once again for your feedback.

Best wishes,

Chris


What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
NO

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Superior Seaview and got exactly that. No upgrade as they claim rooms are tight. However, they are selling all sorts of room online.

- How are the rooms?
This hotel is about 1.5yrs old but the rooms are already run down. Walls are moldy and ants all around.

- What was good and what was bad?

Good:
cheap rate.

Bad:
No Le Club Platinum recognition whatsoever
Check-In welcome procedure sloppy. No welcome drink, no welcome gift. No RECOGNITION PERIOD.
Asked for late checkout, but again turned down.
Willing to pay for half day, but the check in staff actually told me to do it online. I am not sure if he was just brushing me off or what. How on earth will one be able to book half a day online?

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Plenty of nice hotels here. Will not come back and will tell all my friends to avoid this ...... place.

allanhuk
Apr 11, 12, 12:21 am
Novotel London St Pancras
________________________________________

- What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
No

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked what was described as a Superior Room (Queen bed or 2 single beds) Asked for a queen bed in booking comments. Showed Platinum on check in. told that it was two singles asked for a queen, was offered an upgrade to Executive King for 20GBP extra per night, which I declined.

- How are the rooms?
Tired.

- What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Bed was comfortable, considering. Towels & toiletries were decent.

Bad:
Tired room. Expensive. No Le Club Platinum recognition whatsoever. Worse still being offered a paid upgrade means they had a more appropriate room available. Hotel is under refurbishment but no mention of this on the Accor website, seemingly also no reduction in room rates during this period.

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Never. I've been matched to Best Western Diamond recently, so anything under 'M' gallery will try with BW.

Richelieu
Apr 11, 12, 4:12 pm
- What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?

Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?

Cheapest available, always got my (at least) one-category upgrade without asking, though I had indicated in the message to the hotel my Accor status because I was asking for late check-out, so maybe they "got the hint".

- How are the rooms?

Tired pre-renovation. Better now.

- What was good and what was bad?

The in-room equipment could be a little better, as the Novotel not far away feels more modern in that department. The stays are usually satisfying.

JackieWeng
Apr 11, 12, 5:54 pm
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Superior 2 Double Beds room and upgraded to a Superior 2 Double Beds Harbour View

- How are the rooms?
Good space, decor is a little old, but everything still works well.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Platinum recognition, upgrade, Location (right in the middle of Auckland CBD).

Bad: The temperature of shower water is a bit tricky to adjust.


- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Great value, only costed about NZD280 for 3 nights. Valet parking is at a premium ($40 per night), but understandable due to the location. We end up using a near by public car parking which costed only $15 per night (5 min walking distance).

RJ77
Apr 11, 12, 9:24 pm
Novotel Impact Bangkok

- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Deluxe Room and got just that

- How are the rooms?
New and typical of newer Novotels.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good: bed was comfortable. Room is clean and fresh looking. Wifi is free of charge regardless of devices logged on. And it's quick speed.

Bad: Nothing really bad. Breakfast choice could have been better. The location of pool is at the back of the hotel in the annexed building on the ground floor and depressingly dark.


- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
If you have business at Impact Convention Centre. Otherwise not ideally located for tourists.

krausolany
Apr 13, 12, 6:28 am
..another stay there so another post, too:

What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes.

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked standard room, did not receive an upgrade (did not expect either)

- How are the rooms?
The rooms are all renovated and very nice. Defintely recommend a room towards the backyard. So much more quiet than the rooms facing the street.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
-Excellent breakfast with fresh juices and fruits
-Great TV with FREE pay TV
-Good location in a great city
-perfect public transportation available
-Welcome gift every other stay
-Empty fridge so you can BYO
-Food quality in the restaurant is excellent
-Room facing the backyard!

Bad:
- No noise, so nothing bad

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Not cheap, but good value for Duesseldorf. Returning next week

jhempy
Apr 15, 12, 1:51 pm
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked junior suite (no upgrade as all larger suites were booked)
Drinks vouchers and welcome gift.
Late check-out till 16pm.

- How are the rooms?
Mezzanine stil rooms, nice and modern. Hermes products.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good: Location at the main station (direkt S-Bahn form MUC)
Very helpfull staff, even on a busy weekend!
Bad: The bathroom was small, but still nice (no tub to use the rubber duck you can find in the bathroom)

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
I booked a 3 for 2 rate, so good value. I definitely will be back even on a standard rate.

FlyingHigh00
Apr 15, 12, 3:49 pm
- What is your A|Club status?
Gold

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked and got Standard Room. I got free wifi due to status.

- How are the rooms?
Modern and spacious rooms.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good: Location close to station and public transport, very nice and helpful staff.

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Good value and I would return.

RJ77
Apr 16, 12, 2:55 am
Sofitel Sukhumvit, Bangkok

- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes generally.

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Deluxe room got a nicer corner Deluxe room but not club rooms as it's to be fully booked.

-Platinum recognition?
Drink voucher was given for my friend (who's not staying there) and I for any drinks in the bar/lounge.

Allowed full access to the Club Lounge even though I wasn't on a club level room.

- How are the rooms?
Nice classy design. All the usual Sofitel amenities. Comfortable bed but I preferred the Muse one.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good: Depending on one's preference, its location along Sukhumvit, straddling soi 13 and soi 15 is tourist central. Short walk to Nana Station BTS.
The staff are still the gem in this hotel. Warm and friendly.
Finally, a decent-sized pool that gets some sun. Throw in some cabanas, perfect.

Wifi is free throughout the property.

Bad: In room carpet's frayed (for a month old property, that's unforgivable). Housekeeping wasn't doing the job well, room appears dusty, toiletries wasn't refilled properly (no toothpaste). In-room directory was missing. Corridors outside the room and the elevators area are stuffy, not enough air-conditioning.

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
I wasn't going for value for $. But Bangkok hotels are generally value for money. Certainly some areas that need to be improved for it to be called a true Luxury hotel. The need to use whole leaf tea, for example, instead of tea powder(no doubt it's cheaper) that gets everywhere in the cup as it's too fine for the filter of the carafe. Club lounge needs to serve the signature Sofitel pastry basket instead of helping oneself at the counter. Proper labelling of food is not done. Glasses at the counter for juices missing and having to take along my glass on the dining table to the counter which is a bit silly. Luxury is all about attention to details really.

Would I return, Yes, it can be a great property if it improves itself.

RJ77
Apr 16, 12, 3:09 am
Grand Mercure Zhongya, Shanghai

- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes generally.

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a Deluxe room and (this is how it should be done, please learn Accor) got upgraded pre-arrival to Executive Club Room.

-Platinum recognition?
Access to Club Lounge. Free Wifi (I think it's free throughout I can't be sure).

- How are the rooms?
Nice classy design. For some reasons, I think they have some plumbing problems, a sewer smell was permeating in this room. Complained about it and was upgraded to the Executive Suite across the room. Now, I'm happy. It must be at least 700 sq ft. In size.

This must be one of the nicest Grand Mercure I've stayed in (not that I stay in a lot of this brand) It beats the Sofitel Hyland Shanghai in terms of classiness and room amenities.


- What was good and what was bad?
Good:

classy rooms, classy lobby the only Accor property I've come across that has literally a separate check in desk for A Club member and is manned.

Club lounge has free 10 minute back massage service in the evenings.
This is my 2nd time staying, both times got an executive suite (ok 2nd time wasn't given initially).
A few minutes walk from Shanghai Railway Station. Subway Metro Line 1's entrance just by the corner.

Competent concierge. Was able to get an F1 ticket for the practice session on the day itself 4 hours before the session starts. Well connected I must say. Cannot be said of the much more upmarket Andaz Shanghai which I stayed after this hotel.



Bad:

As mentioned, some rooms smell of sewer. not in touristy location. But taxis are cheap and plentiful in Shanghai.

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Yes and Yes.

stimpy
Apr 21, 12, 3:12 am
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, as always here.

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Premium room with breakfast and boat package. Got advance payment rate, but they held off the advance payment since I told them I would pay with A-Club vouchers. Granted as I am a repeat guest.

-Platinum recognition?
I think I got a one level upgrade with a decent sized corner room. Free drink coupons given without asking. 4pm check out given avec plaisir

- How are the rooms?
Sizeable for Paris and very comfortably appointed. Internet is charged and high speed if you use the cable, but free lower speed WiFi throughout the hotel. Very nice Anne Semonin bathroom amenities.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
The Baltimore is a very high class hotel that used to be a Sofitel, but due to its boutique size it's M Gallery now. It still has high end clientele and some of the best and most professional service you will find in Paris.

The free drink coupon was used for a very nice Champagne and a healthy glass of 15 year old Dalwhinnie.

Very good concierge and valet parking.

Bad:
Nothing

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes and I return as often as I can

IMH
Apr 23, 12, 3:26 am
[...]some of the best and most professional service you will find in Paris

Nice to read this very positive update -- thanks. We've booked a junior suite for three nights next month (the 50% "private sale" discount made the price extremely attractive) and I'll report in due course.

ballogie
Apr 25, 12, 3:28 pm
Pullman Dubai

- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked superior - got executive club

- How are the rooms?
excellent

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
1. Got massive cake selection, fruit platter and bottle of fizzy date drink
Bad:
1. nothing
- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes

chentaiman
Apr 29, 12, 8:42 pm
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
NO

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Superior Seaview and got exactly that. No upgrade as they claim rooms are tight. However, they are selling all sorts of room online.

- How are the rooms?
This hotel is about 1.5yrs old but the rooms are already run down. Walls are moldy and ants all around.

- What was good and what was bad?

Good:
cheap rate.

Bad:
No Le Club Platinum recognition whatsoever
Check-In welcome procedure sloppy. No welcome drink, no welcome gift. No RECOGNITION PERIOD.
Asked for late checkout, but again turned down.
Willing to pay for half day, but the check in staff actually told me to do it online. I am not sure if he was just brushing me off or what. How on earth will one be able to book half a day online?

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Plenty of nice hotels here. Will not come back and will tell all my friends to avoid this ...... place.


Well, the saga continues. I have received my credit card statement, and the hotel charged me twice. My bank has to verify with them before giving a credit. Plus the points for the stay have not been credited yet.

PanGalactic
May 1, 12, 6:25 pm
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Superior - Paid £25 at desk to upgrade booking to Lux - Got Junior Suite

- How are the rooms?
excellent

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:

Good sized very clean room, not "really" a suite, just a large room, but still very comfortable.
Nice view of Airplanes landing, good soundproofing. Very nice looking lounge.
Good desk staff. Excellent breakfast.

Bad:

Evening canapes in lounge were limited in selection and quite unimpressive. :td:
Moody bar staff in Sphere, didn't look after us really well considering we were buying champagne like it was going out of fashion.
Weird fusion restaurant menu. (including Peking duck Pizza? :confused:)
No swimming pool :(

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Reasonable value given the high quality of the room
Unlikely to return, prefer Hilton T4 for 1/2 the price.

IMH
May 2, 12, 1:48 am
Booked Superior - Paid £25 at desk to upgrade booking to Lux - Got Junior Suite

I'd be interested to know who was pro-active here -- did you ask about a paid upgrade or did they offer? (I've never asked or been offered.)

Unlikely to return, prefer Hilton T4 for 1/2 the price.

Interesting (and several posters in the specific property thread have expressed the opposite view). One factor muddying things is definitely the (for outsiders) unpredictable pricing. I've paid from £69 to £200 for a standard room at the Sofitel -- and you can be sure that the times it was nearer £200 I checked the T4 Hilton prices first and found them to be just as high or higher.

PanGalactic
May 2, 12, 7:04 am
I'd be interested to know who was pro-active here -- did you ask about a paid upgrade or did they offer? (I've never asked or been offered.)


I called before I left home to ask if I had ben upgraded and was told I had been, from Superior room to Luxury room.

I asked if they had any suites available and was told the upgrade would be £40 from Luxury room to Junior Suite.

I then asked if I could pay the upgrade from Superior to Luxury (£25) in order to get the upgrade to a Junior Suite as the website was not showing any Luxury room when I booked, and they agreed.


Interesting (and several posters in the specific property thread have expressed the opposite view). One factor muddying things is definitely the (for outsiders) unpredictable pricing. I've paid from £69 to £200 for a standard room at the Sofitel -- and you can be sure that the times it was nearer £200 I checked the T4 Hilton prices first and found them to be just as high or higher.

For me the fact that the Sofitel had no pool was the main problem as I usually travel with my wife and child. I normally book the Hilton quite far in advance and pay £100-120 for a standard room and get an executive with lounge access. The lounge may not be as nice looking as the Sofitel but the snacks are much better.

IMH
May 2, 12, 7:18 am
Thanks for the extra details, PG!

stimpy
May 2, 12, 7:41 am
For me the fact that the Sofitel had no pool was the main problem as I usually travel with my wife and child.

It's funny how different we all can be. If I'm traveling with family, I prefer the Sofitel since it's just a short walk for everyone to BA check in. I wouldn't want to subject them to an external hotel at LHR. Especially not the horror that is the Hoppa!

PanGalactic
May 2, 12, 8:04 am
It's funny how different we all can be. If I'm traveling with family, I prefer the Sofitel since it's just a short walk for everyone to BA check in. I wouldn't want to subject them to an external hotel at LHR. Especially not the horror that is the Hoppa!

Hilton provides a free bus service to T3 and T5 although I just park my car at the Hilton, then move to the valet parking at whichever terminal we are leaving from.

Last time we stayed at Hilton we took the free bus service to T5 just to visit for "fun", Little Miss loved it as it was the first time she had ever been on a bus :)

I'll admit the T5 Sofitel does seem really convenient especially if you are on a really early flight from T5.

Another way I might consider using it is for a £99 day room incase we don't manage to get much sleep on our way back from an overnight long haul.

Goldorak
May 2, 12, 3:20 pm
- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, very happy

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Luxury room high floor - Got Junior Suite as a complimentary upgrade :)

- How are the rooms?
Very comfortable, big enough, nice view, room included a sofa and an armchair

- What was good and what was bad?
Good: of course the great MyBed, got 2 drink vouchers for the bar, excellent staff, concierge very helpful. Very nice lobby full of flowers (including many beautiful orchids). Good breakfast at café des architectes.

Bad: it's really to say something : room was not ready at 2:00 pm but did not complain too much with the nice upgrade ;). Went in town and front desk staff called me on my cell phone 20 min later to tell me the room was ready ^

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Certainly when the prices are not skyrocketing as too often in Chicago. Excellent hotel. I have stayed several times there and have never been disappointed.

nicolas75
May 3, 12, 12:04 am
Bad: it's really to say something : room was not ready at 2:00 pm

Aaaah, the unbeatable pleasure to have your executive suite in historical tower ready at 8am at IC Chicago when being Royal Ambassador ;)

calvinoeh
May 7, 12, 5:01 pm
Sofitel Mumbai

- What is your A|Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest room. Got upgraded one level. Didn't get or ask for Club access.

- How are the rooms?
excellent. On the small side. Modernly furnished.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
1. Staff was friendly and helpful.
2. Got nice cake and flowers as part of wife's birthday.
3. Fruit bowl + snacks + chocolate was waiting in the room.
Bad:
1. check in took longer than expected due to them having trouble pulling free nights from my Advantage account.

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes if on transit. Would stay else where if visiting Mumbai since the hotel it's out in the middle of no where.

Extensive review and pictures available on my blog. (http://lydvin.blogspot.com/2012/05/last-bmi-hoorah-sofitel-mumbai.html)

tikadaxx
May 10, 12, 4:32 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
NO

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Superior Seaview and got exactly that. No upgrade as they claim rooms are tight. However, they are selling all sorts of room online.

- How are the rooms?
This hotel is about 1.5yrs old but the rooms are already run down. Walls are moldy and ants all around.

- What was good and what was bad?

Good:
cheap rate.

Bad:
No Le Club Platinum recognition whatsoever
Check-In welcome procedure sloppy. No welcome drink, no welcome gift. No RECOGNITION PERIOD.
Asked for late checkout, but again turned down.
Willing to pay for half day, but the check in staff actually told me to do it online. I am not sure if he was just brushing me off or what. How on earth will one be able to book half a day online?

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Plenty of nice hotels here. Will not come back and will tell all my friends to avoid this ...... place.

I would say Sanya Yalongbay Pullman is much better. Paid 150 usd and offered a pool villa! Not to mention welcome drinks and stuffs. One rare feature: They don't charge anything for the recreational facilities, you can play the snooker/pool ball or rent beach toys for free. One more thing, they offer half-price cocktails at the beach bar during happy hour, which is like 3usd ea. Real deal.

The only down side is that you have to take a golf cart to the beach as this is not a beachfront resort. But the 5minutes worth it. You can't even get a seaview room from the sheraton next door for 150usd.

IMH
May 11, 12, 10:00 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, very. There were a few minor negative points that I'll mention below, but nothing that stopped this being my most pleasant hotel stay so far this year (better than two Sofitels, three Conrads and a dozen Hiltons in Europe and Asia).

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
We booked a "junior suite" and that's what we got. I asked about an upgrade at check in but was told that it wasn't possible because the hotel only has one suite. (That suite was available to be booked throughout our three-night weekend stay, however, so IMO they missed a chance to make us deliriously happy.)

Platinum recognition?
Voucher for a glass of champagne each (or a cocktail). No other welcome gift, letter or mention of Platinum status at check in. On the first night only, two bottles of water in the minibar wore collars marking them as "complimentary".

How are the rooms?
Delightful and extremely comfortable. Spotless and well maintained. Exquisitely comfortable bed.

Our room would never pass as a "junior suite" in Asia or America, as it was basically just a larger-than-usual room with a sofa -- but that made it extremely large for Paris.

What was good and what was bad?
Good: It's quite hard to put my finger on exactly why we enjoyed our time here so much -- it really all comes down to the quality of the room and the furnishings and equipment. We were out every evening, so didn't even visit the bar (or claim our free drinks). We didn't need the concierge or visit the restaurant (which, for reference, is closed on Saturday and Sunday evenings). But whenever we did pass through the lobby or see a member of staff we were greeted warmly but politely and given the feeling that we were in a real hotel rather than just another branch of a corporate entity.

Bad:
No price list for the minibar. Housekeeping missed a few things (one evening one pillow had no pillowcase, another day a waste bin didn't get emptied) and we had to request fresh coffee pods every day. Very few TV channels (the only English language channel was CNN, the only German language channel was SAT1) and most channels had a poor signal.

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes and yes (we booked during an earlier "private sale" and paid less than 200 EUR a night).

virtualaris
May 25, 12, 4:34 pm
What is your Le Club status?
Gold

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Hard to decide...

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Superior room, asked to the Front Desk Supervisor during check-in and upgraded two level to Superior room on the Premier Floor (without Executive Lounge benefits). My tips: asked if there's any higher level room available now and told them if it's possible to upgrade their Gold/Platinum member.

How are the rooms?
For a superior room, it was very good and well-maintained

What was good and what was bad?

Good: Room, spacious swimming pools

Bad:
found out later that the executive club lounge benefits were not included on the upgrade :(

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes; can't decide to return or not since the GRO staffs on Premier Lounge lil bit rude.:td:

virtualaris
May 27, 12, 6:34 am
What is your Le Club status?
Gold

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Very

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked two Executive rooms, one of them was upgraded to their 74 sqm Suite using Accor Advantage Plus room upgrade certificate (note that you should ask to reservation immediately after you made a reservation; otherwise probably the suite would not be available later)


How are the rooms?
Suite: very spacious (74 sqm) eventhough the ambiance is so so but well-maintained.
Executive room: 28 sqm, but the room arrangement is good so it doesn't appear small. We had a direct view to Paragon Mall which is beautiful both night and day.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Got welcoming letter from their GM and mentioned my name ;), welcoming complimentary chocolates and another chocolates during turn-down service, courteous staffs, complimentary two-ways airport transfer, and got early check-in for both rooms (eventhough I only request 1 room for early check-in).

Bad:
The snacks during happy hour is very limited and there's no complimentary drink for whole day (like other Novotels in Indonesia)

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Really Good Value for the price I paid; for sure !

alibi
May 28, 12, 11:49 pm
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, very

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Deluxe - upgraded to Skyway Club Deluxe Room with lounge access


How are the rooms?
Deluxe: 48 sqm, nice layout, bathtub and shower with spectacular view over the city

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Complimentary chocolates, turn-down service, good food in lounge, courteous staff, complimentary drinks all day

Bad:
Lounge closes at 8pm, no welcome gift, no letter, had to ask for welcome drink

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Had a cheap prepaid rate, so very good value.

RJ77
May 29, 12, 4:17 am
Novotel Ambassador Gangnam, Seoul

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Superior - upgraded Club room but without lounge access


How are the rooms?
Comfortable but small. Came with a Nespresso machine.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Breakfast was good. The Japanese restaurant was great. Gym/pool/jacuzzi facilities exceeded my expectation (or the lack of it). The hotel decor is a little classier than what one would expect from a typical Novotel with a 2 storey high artificial waterfall as a backdrop at the lobby lounge.

Bad:
Nothing

Value for $? Would you return?
Yes and yes.

starflyergold
Jun 13, 12, 12:43 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes(ish) BUT they still don't get things right

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Standard, upgraded to junior suite (due to problems with my last stay)

How are the rooms?
Nice room, great to have a balcony

What was good and what was bad?

Good: Room, balcony (though tables and chairs could do with a lick of paint)

Bad: No drinks vouchers was issued, toiletries, milk and water were not restocked after the first night, newspaper only delivered the first morning.

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Not good, not bad. As they repeatedly don't get Le Club perks rights which is starting to really annoy me I'm not sure I'll return.

virtualaris
Jun 13, 12, 12:12 pm
What is your Le Club status?
Gold

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked two bedroom suite (their highest category; so can't be upgraded)

How are the rooms?
Very spacious room, 114 sqm, has two stories and the beds were to die for

What was good and what was bad?

Good: Room, beautiful hallway, beautiful building (both from inside and outside) ^

Bad: No welcome gift given until I asked for (got a bottle of sparkling wine later which I declined then change to two boxes of chocolates and jams), no welcome drinks voucher.

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes. Although lack of elite Accor recognition, but the hotel was nice and staffs are friendly

RJ77
Jun 16, 12, 2:42 am
What is your Le Club status?
Plat.

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Generally yes.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?

Booked an entry level Superior room. Upgraded to club level room upon request. No club lounge access.


How's the room?

Spacious. The carpet has seen better days. Bathroom is spacious as well with the usual L'Occitane toiletries.

The only gripe is the phones are really old and cheap looking. What one would find in a motel 6 I suppose with its faded dials.Calls to housekeeping and concierge won't work. One has to intuitively dial '0' to get through to a central reception. Takes a frequent traveller to know this thing.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Lovely settings. Takes full advantage of the Manila Bay views. From the lobby, Le Bar to the gym they are all facing the bay. Sitting at the bar counter having a drink and looking out to the sea during sunset is great. Grand lobby with a story high orchids arrangement. Lovely door- ladies wearing their national costumes welcoming you.

The only resort like deluxe hotel in the city. Pool's great. Gym looks great as well with the latest machines and what nots.

Bad:

Me: May I request for an upgrade (Showing Le Club card)
Checkin lady: ermm, let me check. (5 minutes later), I will upgrade u one level up.

Me: Do I get a welcome drink voucher?
Checkin lady: ermm let me check. (Disappeared for 5 minutes). Yes you can just show your Le Club card at the bar.
Le Bar staff: non-alcoholic drinks only. Beer? We'll charge.

Me: Do I get any welcome amenity?
Lady on the phone: Let me check Sir.
(upon returning to the room after dinner, a tiny box of chocolates and some fruits were placed on the table).

Just be unabashed and ask and you'll get them.

Pool's great but the renovation's not. Last thing one wants to hear is the jackhammer hammering away in the background as the pool level restaurant the Spiral is undergoing renovation which was what happened on my one day at the pool. Was told it'll be over by August.

In room Internet is charged or so I was told. But I somehow managed to bypass the login page and still able to surf the net. Wifi at Lobby level is complimentary though.


Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
$. Prepaid rate, seems reasonable. That came without BF though. BF rate was exorbitant at US$45 per pax plus taxes and service charge. So maybe not that cheap if you need BF. Yes would return if I happen to be in town.

PabloM
Jun 24, 12, 4:39 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Absolutely!

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked So Suite and received So Lofty room (top room).

How are the rooms?
AMAZING!!! The room was sensational - so large - massive room, huge bath, shower, dressing, lounge, dining room. Just incredible.

We also got to have a look at the other rooms - hotel is themed water, earth, fire, metal and wood - so saw most of the room styles and there is something there for everyone. It's so Chic and Elegant - just amazing - and the hotel is still only in the soft opening stage - so once it's fully completed it will be even better.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Everything! This hotel is sensational. We were given the VIP treatment. When we arrived (at 1130am) our room wasn't ready - we weren't expecting it to be and thought we'd go shopping until it was - but we were offered a complimentary lunch in the Red Oven (sensational food). Checkout was then also extended to 6pm on the day of departure - we hoped for a 4pm checkout but got a 6pm one.

We were also given a one hour massage each, complimentary breakfast, So Bangkok gift (magnet with words So), chocolates, etc.

The Spa was amazing. Great massages and amazing atmosphere.

Red Oven - one of the restaurants - has an amazing buffet with different styles of food. Also had breakfast there and it was amazing too.

The Club Signature lounge isn't quite open but we were still given Club Signature services - afternoon tea, evening cocktails, all day drinks and snacks - and that was so good. The Thai Coconut Daiquiri was amazing.

The staff were outstanding - so friendly, wanted to help, made any little inconveniences just slide away (just some inconveniences because it's still in soft opening - but really, the way they handled it just added to their exceptional experience). Seriously, we felt like we were the most important guests in the hotel - and this was from all of the staff.

The pool, fitness centre, sauna, steam room were all great - beautiful facilities and nice to be in.

The hotel looks amazing - so modern, chic, sophisticated and warm. There is a room type for every taste - we loved Metal and Earth rooms (earth would be especially good if you had kids with you).

Bad:
The only very minor complaint was that the snacks with cocktails were pretty basic (just crisps and some kind of nut thing) but everything else was so good that it really didn't matter.

And I guess that you could say there were some things missing but this is just because the hotel isn't quite finished - but really, it didn't matter.

Value for $ or Vouchers?
Yes for both. So good value - it is a little dearer than other Accor properties in Bangkok but so worth it.

Would you return?
Absolutely. We didn't want to leave.

Really Good Value for the price I paid;
YES!

We just loved the Sofitel So Bangkok. It has to be one of the best hotels we have ever stayed at. Put's other Sofitel's in a different (lower) class. They are really trying to impress guests and they are doing it so well.

Can't wait to get back there.

Goldorak
Jun 24, 12, 9:36 am
Thank you PabloM for this very nice 1st review of Sofitel So Bangkok. Sounds really great :)

sigma421
Jun 25, 12, 12:57 pm
Novotel Lisboa

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Standard room, did not receive upgrade (don't think there was another catagory to upgrade to)


How are the rooms?
Large and fairly spacious. Well soundproofed (hotel is directly under Lisbon airport flightpath)

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Room, breakfast and swimming pool were very nice. Gym looked good but didn't use it. Staff were very helpful

Bad:
Pool was unheated and therefore freezing

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
€100 per night for 3 adults and 1 child including breakfast. Would definitely return!

nicolas75
Jun 29, 12, 12:40 pm
As I had the luck to run a project in France province, here are my reports of my stays at Accor hotels

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
No


Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest flexible rate via Accor app.
When I arrived, there was no trace of my reservation
The only room available was a smoking one (fortunately with no smell)


How are the rooms?
Tiny (less than 15 sqm!). Looks more like an old Holiday Inn Express
Partially renovated
Bathroom with plastic bathtub, not exactly clean
Very small closet
Free wifi
Very quiet
Television with decent selection of channels

What was good and what was bad?

Good:

Outdoor pool (but no direct access from the hotel, you have to get out of the hotel- in swimsuit... -, and then walk along the restaurant on the stree)
Free wifi
very quiet
free parking

Bad:

Smallest room I ever had, and has the atmosphere of a hospital room
Two members of staff at check-out, but only one taking care of customers
Room service at extortionate price (EUR 40+ for a plate, dessert and diet Coke)
No upgrade, no Platinum recognition as always
Was charged EUR 3 some days after check-out by mistake, and received as an answer that it is technically difficult to have my money back (I beg you pardon?)


Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Nope

nicolas75
Jun 29, 12, 12:44 pm
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes


Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest flexible rate and was upgraded after negociation to a superior room


How are the rooms?
Around 25 sqm
Quite elegantly renovated
Kettle
Free wifi
Very quiet
Television with good selection of channels

What was good and what was bad?

Good:

Friendly staff
Good breakfast
Free wifi
Very quiet
free parking

Bad:

Nothing, except that location and building have nothing glamourous, and there is no minibar in the room


Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Why not, if I have any business in the region

nicolas75
Jun 29, 12, 12:50 pm
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes


Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest flexible rate and received the same on second floor


How are the rooms?
Around 30 sqm
Elegantly renovated
Large flat screen with large selection of international channels
Large and comfortable bed
Kettle
Very quiet
Nice bathroom with design shower
View over the tracks (read: poor privacy)

What was good and what was bad?

Good:

Very Friendly staff
The hotel is brand new and design is elegant
Very quiet
Just next the TGV station

Bad:

Nothing, except as usual the poor Platinum recognition


Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Hotel is not cheap but pretty good for business

starflyergold
Jun 29, 12, 1:04 pm
[I]
Was charged EUR 3 some days after check-out by mistake, and received as an answer that it is technically difficult to have my money back (I beg you pardon?)


Very easy, talk to your credit card issuer and get the charge reversed. What a silly excuse :eek:

SouthWesterner
Jun 29, 12, 1:22 pm
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, very.


Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest "Classic" room on prepaid rate.
Upgraded to Luxury King Size room without having to ask.

How are the rooms?
Spacious by Manhattan standards.
Great bathroom containing tub with shower over and separate rain shower cubicle.
Lots of wardrobe space.
Free (but rather slow) wifi. Higher speeds available, but chargeable.
Generally very quiet, but I could hear occupants of neighbouring room come and go.
Good size TV with good selection of channels (including HD)

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Excellent location on West 44th Street, easy walking distance to theatres, Grand Central Station, Times Square, Rockefeller Center, etc.

Very quiet.

Friendly and attentive staff at check-in, concierge, on the door, and in the bar.

Upgrade and free drink voucher (valid for champagne) given without having to ask for it. Was also nice to be told "we appreciate your loyalty" at check-in. Also offered late check-out without having to ask for it.

The usual, wonderful, Sofitel bed.

Bad:
Room service food bad and way overpriced - best avoided. There's a great Diner down the road and coffee shop across the street.

Not much of a view.

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes, I would definitely return. Room rate more than reasonable for the class of hotel, especially given the location. Wouldn't eat there though.

chongsss
Jul 10, 12, 9:40 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked three Standard Twin rooms on the cheapest pre-paid rate.
No mention of upgrades at check-in.

How are the rooms?
Very new property.
Spacious and nice.
Two of the three rooms didn't have a window.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Free WiFi
New and spacious rooms
Right next to Smolenskaya Subway station and few minutes' walk to Arbat.
Helpful receptionist(s)

Bad:
Rooms not ready at 2pm although the reception pro-actively gave us vouchers to redeem Welcome Drinks at the bar.

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Definitely value for $ in Moscow. Would return if going to Moscow again.

chongsss
Jul 10, 12, 9:50 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
I guess so.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked three Superior Twin rooms and two were upgraded to Executive Premier Floor.

How are the rooms?
Spacious.
Feels dated.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Free WiFi (Surprisingly I could access Facebook there)
Spacious room
Nice breakfast spread

Bad:
Some staff are quite brusque in handling customers.
Pathetic welcome drinks

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Not sure.

shaohtsai
Jul 10, 12, 5:37 pm
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum.

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a classic room, upgraded to a deluxe room.

How are the rooms?
I stayed in early February and in a room that hadn't yet been renovated, but I found it to be perfectly adequate. Spacious, gorgeous view.

What was good and what was bad?

Good - Check-in was done by an incredibly friendly woman from Argentina, who engaged me in small talk through the process; Platinum status was acknowledged, she informed me of the upgrade then gave me a drink voucher, in my room were complimentary water bottles and chocolate. The bed, pillows and duvet were all of extreme comfort. Check out was also speedy and even though I ordered room service three times, I didn't find the price high - note that I did redeem a €40 coupon. Perfect location. And the market next door is good for dodging the high prices at the hotel.

Bad - Wardrobe doors slid with some difficulty, but maybe that's resolved by the renovation. I found the price for food to be standard, but for the minibar really outrageous; with a market right next door to the hotel and other places in the vicinity I wonder why anyone would take anything.

Value for money or vouchers? Would you return?
Yes, I would. As it was a special offer (three for the price of two), I do believe it was good value for money. Sofitel La Défense was also a choice for me, but this particular Pullman's location was unbeatable - right next to Gare Montparnasse, plus the Air France coach from Orly stops practically in front of it.

IMH
Jul 11, 12, 1:52 am
Welcome to FT, shaohtsai, and thanks for your review!

u600213
Jul 14, 12, 9:06 pm
PULLMAN STUTTGART FONTANA
VOLLMOELLERSTRASSE 5
STUTTGART-VAIHINGEN DE 70563

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
No

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked by corporate travel agent. Reservation said "room type 1C1" Got exactly the same type of room I have had for the last 5 years the first few I didn't even have an Accor card of any kind. No upgrade or better treatment as Platinum

How are the rooms?
Clean, well maintained but getting time to update TV. Stayed there once a year for the last 5 years and the rooms are the same, TV the same. Bathroom has the silly 1/2 Glass Tub surround that gets the floor wet when showering.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:

Nice breakfast buffet but costs around 20 Euros
Mostly nice staff

Bad:

Old big metal room keys that cause a long wait when front desk is busy to retrieve room keys. Air Conditioner was very noisy and did not cool. When I brought it to their attention front desk person first claimed it was a law to not cool the room too much, then sent a technician who made the fan a lot quieter but it still never cooled the room. The windows open but it was too noisy because the room overlooked the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and regular train tracks.

No platinum welcome gift. No drink voucher until I asked for one.

Internet is over 20 Euros for 24 hrs. I use an Aldi Medion pre-paid SIM and make my phone a hotspot instead and I recommend that you do something similar. There is an Aldi, and Vodafone, O2 and T-Mobile store within 2 blocks.

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

$181 per night, waste of money and I'd rather stay closer to downtown but someone else is paying so I'll probably keep staying there

harryhv
Jul 14, 12, 10:52 pm
Mercure Perth Australia

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum.

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a classic room, arrived and was allotted a bad room in the old wing of the hotel. But at check-in protested that I was Plat and normally would be upgraded and was moved to the best room in the hotel, room 125: a suite with a jacuzzi.

How are the rooms?
There are two "wings", rooms in the old wing are nasty and have paper-thin connecting doors so you can hear every breath in the next room. Whereas the new wing is quite pleasant.

What was good and what was bad?
Good - Check-in, upgrade after being prompted. Nice price in the 50% sale. Handy location.

Bad -Ridiculous charge for internet, $25 per day even for Plats. Also beware, there is a gym in the penthouse of the new wing so the upper floor rooms seem to have elephants dancing on the ceiling until the gym closes at 9pm.

Value for money or vouchers? Would you return?
Yes, but not at their normal rates, PER hotels are ridiculously expensive just now.

JackieWeng
Jul 15, 12, 7:31 pm
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Superior 2 Double Beds and got upgraded to the Premier floor (top floor). Also received a free box of chocolate, which is a very nice gesture.

How are the rooms?
Spacious and new.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Spacious room
Receptionist is warm and welcoming

Bad:
Can't thinks of any

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Definitely

JackieWeng
Jul 15, 12, 7:34 pm
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Standard Room with 2 double beds and got upgraded to Superior Room with 2 double beds with lake view. Also received a gift of chocolate, which is a very nice gesture.

How are the rooms?
Spacious, but a bit dated.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Spacious room
Fantastic view in both the breakfast and the dining restaurant.

Bad:
Can't thinks of any

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Definitely

RJ77
Jul 18, 12, 8:37 pm
Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a Superior room and got upgraded to Luxury room. A plate of sweets and a bottle of Bordeaux wine were presented. No drinks voucher though, but a whole bottle of wine is just fine by me. ;)

How are the rooms?
Best looking Sofitel room I've been, thought Sofitel Sukhumvit was hard to beat. This wins by its sheer size.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Spacious and beautiful room. 58 sq. m. of space.Layout of room was well thought out. Like that there's a power outlet for charging at either side of the bed.
And fanciful mirror with inlaid tv. First I've seen in a Sofitel.

Proper recognition of Platinum member and the corresponding benefits. I didn't have to ask for them like a beggar.

Breakfast was great. Even had different flavors of crystal salt on display (as in the whole rock salt half a metre tall).

Bad:
Some staff are quite inexperienced. No one escorted me to the room and explain the features in the room.

Wifi signal's weak in the room. Otherwise it's great as it's free of charge.

Sound-proofing of the windows could be better. Could still hear the rumbling of the buses from the street (I was on 18th floor) with the curtains drawn.

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Prepaid rate was great around US$135 all in. Definitely return.

virtualaris
Jul 20, 12, 7:47 am
What is your Le Club status?
Gold

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes/No

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked two deluxe rooms with outdoor bathtub and one of them was upgraded to suite using Advantage Plus Room Upgrade Certificate. Received the same as one booked.

How are the rooms?
Suite is quite spacious, two sofa beds so it could accommodate up to 4 adults. 2 TVs. Outdoor bathtub. Deluxe room is also spacious with 1 sofa bed and outdoor bathtub.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
-Two sofa beds in suite
-Good Barbecue dinner although there were group booking on that time but rarely see empty foods
-Good welcome gift; fruit platters, chocolates, and a bottle of Equil. (Not for being Le Club Gold member; but I think it must be for the persons who staying at the suite)

Bad:
-No Late check-out; only until 1 pm, even it was Sunday and I was staying at the suite.
-Quite dated
-Small Swimming Pools
-No WOW factor on their suite
-Small shower room

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Value for voucher but probably not returning as it's just too ordinary for such typical resort

RJ77
Jul 23, 12, 8:44 pm
Sofitel Hyland Shanghai Hotel

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes and No.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?

It was two separate stays. First I booked their basic room and was uprgraded to their basic Junior Suite.

Second stay was a club level superior room. Was upgraded to a duplex junior suite (club level). No welcome amenity and didn't bother to ask.

How are the rooms?
Basically rooms below club level are a dump. If one books a basic room (which is a dump) you'll be upgraded to a bigger dump called the Junior Suite. And there's no Wifi in these rooms even if you want to pay for it. Any Novotels would be embarassed to have rooms like that. The bath tub faucet's so unusual to turn on the shower head that it needs an instruction sticker above the bath tub.

Club Level rooms are barely acceptable (for what Sofitel aspires to be and in comparison with other excellent Sofitels in China). At least they're newer and the carpet's not as skanky.


What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Location can't be beat. Most cabbies knew this place so I didn't have to explain where it was. I do like the surrounding areas, not the Nanjing Pedestrian Street but the streets a few blocks behind the hotel on the other side. Very accessible with subway 100 m walk away.

Bad:

There's no pool in this hotel, unbelievable for a hotel of this stature in China.

Club lounge serves the same breakfast for as long as I've been coming here since 5 years ago. The same evening canapes laid on the table which are pathetic but their recent addition of croque monsieur (which goes around served by the server in morsels) was good. Club lounge setting is comfortable though and the view is nice.


Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
No. Paid a prepaid rate for two nights and used vouchers to pay for the $420 bill for another two non-prepaid nights (so that I could use the vouchers). Gutted to know the new Sofitel Jing'an would not happen :(as the franchisee ran out of money and the new GM had been transferred back to Hyland (he was the ex-GM). So maybe I'll just stick with the Pullman next time.

stimpy
Jul 24, 12, 12:51 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked normal room on Travelzoo, upgraded to Exec room with free dinner, free bottle of wine, free breakfast and 30% off spa treatments. And the hotel was pretty much sold out for the Open, plus some weddings.

How are the rooms?
Decent sized with nice bathroom. Especially good for upcountry England and miles better than any Mercure in France.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
800 year old manor with modern extensions in a country setting. Nice spa with low prices. Good quality F&B.
Free Parking
Free WiFi in exec rooms.

Bad:
Nothing.

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
For £109 it's an awesome deal and yes I would return.

gojko88
Jul 24, 12, 6:03 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum.

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Comfort Room, got no upgrade.

How are the rooms?
One can see that the hotel was a more traditional offering before being bought off and converted into an all seasons. Still, the room was clean and fairly spacious.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Friendly staff.
Excellent breakfast.
Minutes away from the Westbahnhof shopping mall and metro station.

Bad:
Certain amenities in the bathroom are configured illogically, such as soap dripping onto the toilet paper holder, towels being stored on the opposite side of the sink, etc.

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
I got the room at a 40% discount during the promotion in May, so at 200€ for three nights for two, I definitely think of it as good value.

xorik
Aug 14, 12, 9:10 am
- What is your Le Club status?
Platinum (first time use).

- Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
In overall, yes, but nothing special

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive
Booked deluxe, got no upgrade after sending 2 day advance email inquiry nor during the check in.

- How are the rooms?
Not big for what you expect for a deluxe room. Good mountain view and in-room amenities.

- What was good and what was bad?
Good: decent room, very clean, good bar service, nice staff. Free WiFi. Good Location, very close to shopping in Beverly Hill and malls. Very fast turn run around to get points. Probably because it is Sofitel.

Bad:
Expensive for this type of the room ~300 per night! Restaurant did not have good appeal, bad food (resembled fast food restaurant taste and quality), don’t recommend it. But if you end up going to this restaurant try the appetizers first, check the presentation and the taste

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
No, but may return, because I liked the location, but only if the price will be cheaper (around $200) and there won’t be any other availability at a different hotel


Note: received a complimentarily coupon for a house drink and bottle with water were brought into the room.

fozziedoggie
Aug 14, 12, 9:44 am
- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive
Booked deluxe, got no upgrade after sending 2 day advance email inquiry nor during the check in.

Just curious, but did you ask the FD for an upgrade, or just hope for one? If they refused you an upgrade, what was the reason, hotel full?

xorik
Aug 14, 12, 10:18 am
I asked during the check-in re FD and got an email response to my inquiry from the Reservations Ambassador (Maggie Blackwell) saying that there were no rooms available

chistery
Aug 15, 12, 1:48 am
I asked during the check-in re FD and got an email response to my inquiry from the Reservations Ambassador (Maggie Blackwell) saying that there were no rooms available

Did you check whether their web site will sell you the next room up? Always interesting to see what FD say when confronted with the facts.

tartempion
Aug 15, 12, 2:45 am
Pullman Raja Orchid, Khon Kaen, Thailand

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Deluxe room and got upgraded to Junior suite, one level up.
Did mail reservation beforehand and got confirmation of my new plat status being updated in their records for future visits. We visit Pullman Khon Kaen every two months.

How are the rooms?
Spacious, 63sqm. Table + 4 chairs, sofa, office desk, 2 salon tables Napoleon style, plenty of storage room

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Free WiFi, Free parking
Fruit platter, daily newspaper
Platinium present: box of cookies
Excellent international evening buffet at Pavilion restaurant at 700 Baht.
It's the only hotel buffet in Thailand I give 10/10 so far price/quality wise.
Booked Delicious Escapade package, includes 2 welcome drinks & food voucher for 700THB, prepaid rate.
Excellent Vietnamese restaurant in premises.

Bad:
As usual additional food expenses were not recorded to my Le Club #

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes, Yes

xorik
Aug 15, 12, 9:24 am
Did you check whether their web site will sell you the next room up? Always interesting to see what FD say when confronted with the facts.

No, I didn’t check this option. Simply had no time due to business travel and tight schedule.

harryhv
Sep 22, 12, 11:42 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum.

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Wonderful spot but unimpressed with hotel.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a standard twin room and got just that. Asked about an upgrade, sorry not possible. After a long journey didn't have the energy to argue the point.

How are the rooms?
The rooms are small and the bathroom cramped, no bathtub, paper-thin walls so you hear every cough from the neighbour

What was good and what was bad?
Good - It's a wonderful location and great view especially from the rooftop pool area. Charge for Internet (R$22 per day) but this did not appear on the bill.

Bad - The rooms. Elsewhere this would be an Ibis, not a Sofitel. Someone, probably the maid, spat her chewing gum onto the carpet under the bed during our stay, and left it there for us to step on.

Value for money or vouchers? Would you return?
Would love to return to this location, but would not stay at the Sofitel. The "Special" rate of R$300 (USD150) was rather a lot for an inferior room. Actually this was my first stay at a Sofitel anywhere, they don't have them at the places I usually stay, and probably wouldn't book a Sofitel again.

But Florianopolis, & the resort island of Santa Caterina, is a breathtakingly beautiful place

Goldorak
Oct 17, 12, 4:35 pm
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum.

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Very happy (I have stayed several times before and had always very good stays). Great hotel and great location (5 min walking from the white house)

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Don't remember which category I booked, but was upgraded one level to a junior suite :). I was given also the drink voucher. A few minutes after being arrived in my room, some sympathetic pastries and figues (and a 1L Evian bottle) were bring.

How are the rooms?
Very nice, spacious, the excellent MyBed, no noise, large bathrooms with separate bath tub and shower (and L'Occitane products ;) )

What was good and what was bad?
Good : everything ! Very professional and efficient staff

Bad - I can't find anything bad

Value for money or vouchers? Would you return?
this hotel is generally quite expensive (as most hotels downtown DC), except January/february which is the low season. But yes, I'll return (next stay is already booked for very soon ;) - the hotel sales dept was very efficient to find a dozen rooms+ meeting room for my colleagues and I during a very full period, so a great thank you to them ^).

starflyergold
Oct 17, 12, 11:50 pm
Mercure Tokyo Ginza, Japan

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Deluxe room and that's what I got (once they finally found the reservation and had the room ready)

How are the rooms?
Simple, spacious, nothing fancy but this is a Mercure. No views.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Free internet (cabled), free WiFi but unreliable
Free newspaper on floor
Good location for Ginza shopping

Bad:
No recognition (but then again Accor doesn't promise anything at Mercure)

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes, maybe

RJ77
Oct 19, 12, 5:08 am
Mercure Tokyo Ginza, Japan


How are the rooms?
Simple, spacious,

Bad:
No recognition (but then again Accor doesn't promise anything at Mercure)


Quite depressing really the choice of Accor properties in Tokyo or Japan for that matter. It's IHG and Hilton properties for me whenever I'm in Tokyo.

starflyergold
Oct 19, 12, 5:22 am
Quite depressing really the choice of Accor properties in Tokyo or Japan for that matter. It's IHG and Hilton properties for me whenever I'm in Tokyo.

For those interested this is the sad story of the old Sofitel in Tokyo: http://www.michaeljohngrist.com/2009/01/sofitel-hotel-rip-ueno/

RJ77
Oct 19, 12, 6:11 am
Is it any surprise that it failed? Interesting architecture notwithstanding, but a deluxe hotel in Ueno? A budget inn will more likely thrive there.

xorik
Oct 20, 12, 8:40 pm
- What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Standard room for 5 days, during the check–in got an upgrade to Junior Suite.

- How are the rooms?
Clean. Nicely decorated in the old stile. We liked it.

- What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Hotel staff is very friendly. Very nice location. Bed is very comfortable.

Bad:
Nothing bad about this hotel. Except that one particular waitress in the hotel restaurant was rude. She also insisted to sit us at a breakfast table we didn’t like. We had to argue to be sited at a different table.

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes. Defiantly. We are already planning to do another private wine tour with the Burgundy Gold Tour next year (as it was impossible to see all sites we wanted in 5 days).

xorik
Oct 20, 12, 8:42 pm
- What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
No

- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Privilege Room with queen-size bed, balcony and kitchenette
Privilege Rooms with kitchenette and balcony. For more comfort: VIP bathroom incl. bathrobes, beverages from the minibar, coffee/tea and newspaper free of charge in the room. Also including: WIFI, late checkout and double points.

Didn’t expect to have a room upgrade. This hotel is going through renovation, therefore you could smell the paint and the contraction dust not only in the room but also in the hallways as well. We had to ask multiple times to bring into the room missing items (that supposed to come with this type of VP room, like bathrobes, etc.) to no avail. The room was not prepared for the guest. It was very cold and the heaters were not working. We had to request an extra electric battery to get warm.

- How are the rooms?
The room was Ok, but nothing special. Bed is not comfortable

- What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Nothing

Bad:
The hotel staff is not so friendly. The day of our stay the personal was busy preparing the restaurant for Lufthansa employees (about 50 people) and we had to wait extremely long for a server to even place an order for our meals. Btw – food is not good either.

- Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Definitely not.

nicolas75
Oct 21, 12, 12:32 am
For those interested this is the sad story of the old Sofitel in Tokyo: http://www.michaeljohngrist.com/2009/01/sofitel-hotel-rip-ueno/

Still I do not understand the destruction of the building. If the hotel was not profitable, it could habe been managed by another hotel chain.

RedVee
Oct 22, 12, 2:30 am
Your Le Accor Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
No

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Classic Twin and told I received a deluxe twin but what was deluxe I am not quite sure. It was on the 7th Floor which I think is the biggest defining feature.

How are the rooms?
All rooms are 23 sq m, so quite small. Room overlooked the car park, think the rooms facing the interior atrium would be prefereable. Not luxurious which the hotel makes great play of, bathroom looked reasonably modern and clean. One small bottle of sparkling water and one small bottle of still for 2 guests. Small box of 4 truffle type chocolates.

What was good and what was bad?
Good: Not much really, but managed 5 hours sleep.

Bad: We were only there for just over six hours, arriving at 1 a.m. and leaving at 7.30 a.m. Had notified hotel of late arrival. On check in, the two drinks vouchers were in our packet but taken off us "to avoid confusion as the bar was now shut".

So I asked if we could get a complimentary soft drink from the mini bar or room service, and got a lecture about only the 8th floor rooms having mini bars, so if I wanted one of those I should have booked one as they don't upgrade to that floor (I hadn't even mentioned an upgrade - bit academic when all you want is a drink then bed). They knew in advance our time of arrival, I don't think it would have killed them to have left a couple of soft drinks in the room.

Housekeeping were very noisy from 6 a.m.


Value for £ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Room only no breakfast £102 special rate. Hilton at South Terminal was £85. I would put up with the minor inconvenience of shuttling across to South next time and stay at the Hilton.

fredandgingermad
Oct 29, 12, 4:42 am
How are the rooms?
All rooms are 23 sq m, so quite small. Room overlooked the car park, think the rooms facing the interior atrium would be prefereable. Not luxurious which the hotel makes great play of, bathroom looked reasonably modern and clean. One small bottle of sparkling water and one small bottle of still for 2 guests. Small box of 4 truffle type chocolates.



I stayed here with f&gmad jnr on friday night, agree with most of your observations, being on 7th floor seems to be their 'thing' although we got a room overlooking the terminal which a 6 year old was most enthralled with, we got 4 bottles of water (2 still, 2 sparkling) plus a drinks voucher, they seemed very busy, i overheard someone in the bar saying they should have been on a flight to miami and were being putup as flight cancelled but don't know which airline!

RJ77
Oct 29, 12, 10:07 pm
Your Le Accor Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
No

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a Superior Room, got just that.

How are the rooms?
Nothing to complain about. Bathroom is small. Non-smoking rooms reeks of cigarette smells, but this is China.

What was good and what was bad?
Good: Location is good. Internet access if free by LAN, Wifi is present but one can never hope to get connected to it.

Bad: Breakfast service is mediocre basically staff just couldn't care less. The food is just disappointing. Overhead a table of customers complained about the lack of service and I nodded in agreement on every single point of complaint.

Pool/Gym is an afterthought located in another building above a night club, one has to walk a flight of stairs to reach there.

Value for $$ or Vouchers? Would you return?
No. Won't return.

specialeffects
Oct 31, 12, 8:08 am
Novotel Beijing Xinqiao - Oct 29~Nov3
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
No

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked - Standard room
No upgrade

How are the rooms?
Small
Feels dated
No clock
Uneven table

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Really none. Worse stay of my life
Good exchange rate


Bad:
Rude uncaring staff
Reception does not answer calls/ always busy
Assistant manager always too busy to respond
English hotline always busy
Only housekeeping answers their phone
Mold in bathroom
Heating not working

Would you return?
No

wandering_fred
Nov 1, 12, 3:04 am
Your Le Accor Club status?
Gold

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Standard Room, got just that.

How are the rooms?
Pretty standard for new IBIS. Reasonable size. Painted concrete walls

What was good and what was bad?
Good: Clean. Far enough from the madness at the start of Soi Nana. Staff do try to be helpful.

Bad: A bit of a walk from Suhkumvit though transport provided on way out.
Internet usage is awkward, but there.

Value for $$ or Vouchers? Would you return?
A bit newer than the other hotels in the price range. As long as I get stay credits (per night) I will return. Breakfast buffet is just OK.

I have stayed at many hotels in Bangkok over the last 30+ years mostly in the same area.

There needs to be a way to (pre)select the pre-paid breakfast on a day-by-day basis. My last day I left at 06:00 - before breakfast would be available. As a result I simply paid (more) for it on the first two days.

Fred

wandering_fred
Nov 1, 12, 3:20 am
Your Le Accor Club status?
Gold

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Mostly though with serious reservations - a retired couple

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Standard Twin, got just that. I did not ask for upgrade as breakfast was not purchased.

How are the rooms?
Acceptable size, bathroom dated a bit Reasonably clean

What was good and what was bad?
Good: Location is central to many of the central tourist venues. The Xidan shopping area is within walking distance. The mattress quality was excellent.

Bad: The check in person seemed insulted that I had chosen to NOT purchase the breakfast buffet. This was actually worse than it sounds as there are NO OTHER OPTIONS for breakfast at the hotel. ie there is no continental breakfast to be found ANYWHERE in the hotel. We used the coffee urn in the room. This subject was explained to one of the day managers as we checked out. A further note - there seems to be no other restaurants close by.
The room smelled of cigarette smoke on first arrival. (yes it's China)
While the days were mainly quite brisk (15-20degC) the room was actually too warm for comfortable sleeping and it appears that the heating/cooling is based on a centralized system. As a result the temperature in the room could not be reduced, although the air unit did remove the smell.
The internet at the room was absurdly priced and not used.
The WiFi in the lobby was available but only usable speedwise between 04:00 and 07:00. The speed seems to be a China rather than hotel issue.
Late check out was limited to 13:30.

Value for $$ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Probably. More likely I would look at one of the Novotel hotels in the same general area.

wandering_fred
Nov 1, 12, 3:33 am
Your Le Accor Club status?
Gold

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
A bit of an adventure but yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Standard. Room had two very large singles which could have been pushed together for a king

How are the rooms?
Acceptable size. Reasonably clean. Cat5 cable included for internet but use not attempted.

What was good and what was bad?
Good: Location near the airport. The mattress quality was excellent.
The free mini-bus to the air terminal was unexpected and useful.
If you speak/read Mandarin the restaurant is probably a bonus.

Bad: Limited English spoken.
The restaurant is attached but under separate management. Ordering is by selecting pictures. Having said that, the food was acceptable and prepared quickly. But given the number of western faces, ibis would do well to finance the translation to a (any) western language.
The mini bus was useful but only ran on a schedule leaving on the hour, requiring a 05:00 departure for an 08:00 flight.

Value for $$ or Vouchers? Would you return?
A clean cheap stay for a late arrival or early departure, so with those conditions, yes.

sigma421
Nov 4, 12, 6:48 am
I'm a bit behind here so here's a few recent experiences

Your Le Accor Club status?
Platinum

Novotel Barcelona Sant Joan Despi

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Not really

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Standard room booked and received

How are the rooms?
Standard Novotel rooms. Bathrooms could do with a bit of a deep clean and refurbishment.

What was good and what was bad?
Good: Good quality rooms for the price. Lovely (and very cheap) tapas bar just down the road. Cheap (€2) shuttle bus to airport also covered by Barcelona transport ticket)
Bad: Staff were generally unhelpful. Things went wrong 3 days before arrival when I received an email 'acknowledging my cancellation' which I had never made. Rang hotel in a panic to be told that I must have done it myself as there computer wouldn't do that. Sent frantic email to central reservations to which I have yet to receive a reply (2 weeks later). New booking with new booking code popped into my inbox a few hours later.

Request for a kettle at reception (in Spanish) for medical reasons (my mum needs cooled boiled water to clean out her nose in the morning) was initially refused. We were then promised it would arrive the next morning, which it did not. Eventually it turned up late one afternoon, 2 days after the initial request.
Request for late check-out was initially met with 'that will be €40 please', we eventually got an extra 45 minutes on mentioning of plat status along with heavy sighing.
Coffee bar gave change in Turkish Lira, which they later refused to change (to be fair we didn't notice for an hour or two)

Value for $$ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Not really. The staff really do need a bit of retraining (head receptionist was regularly sour, although the new trainee was lovely (the head receptionist actively stopped her trying to help us).


Mercure Lyon Part-Dieu
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
'Superior' (Standard) room booked and received.

How are the rooms?
Lovely and very modern. Gigantic (40") TV with larger selection of international channels. Only a shower in the bathroom though and annoying selection of toiletries which cannot be recapped when closed

What was good and what was bad?
Good, multilingual reception staff willing to indulge my poor French. Able to check in at 10am following flight arrival at 7:30.
Bad: Area a bit dead on Saturday nights at weekends. Few restaurants except fast food outlets in gigantic 'Part-Dieu' shopping centre and station.

Value for $$ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes. Good value but probably a bit more than I need for a weekend away.

Novotel Sevilla

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Standard booked and received

How are the rooms?
Standard Novotel rooms. Clean and good quality

What was good and what was bad?
Lovely staff. Late check-out (5pm) not a problem. Brekfast looked good. Right next to Metro station.
Bad: Expensive Minibar (but it's Accor...)
Value for $$ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Yes.

FlytheTail
Nov 5, 12, 6:36 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
No, mostly because of the poor service and few benefits received as a platinum member.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked luxury room and received luxury room on a club floor -- but without any club benefits. Whether there is a difference between a luxury room and one on a club floor, I don't know doubt it.

How are the rooms?
Very large, especially the bathroom. Materials are shoddy however -- headboard is plastic that's starting to peel and the woods are particleboard covered in a faux wood covering.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Large room and bathroom that was modestly clean, good water pressure.

Bad:
Lack of Le Club perks, poor service especially by the doormen, construction of new lobby means hassles in and out of hotel, inadequate staff at check-in and check-out, instant coffee, slow wired internet (no wireless on most floors).

Would you return?
No, unless I was guaranteed lounge benefits as I do at most Sofitels.

Cupart
Nov 12, 12, 5:17 am
What is your Le Club status?
Gold

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, very much so.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked standard (room 301), but got superior (room 503) after asking at check-in. Only reason was that I had initially requested certain things which the superior room didn't offer (i.e. double bed).

How was the room?
Very large, excellent bed (slept like an angel), very quiet with great selection of misc language TV channels ^

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Large room and dead quiet. Brilliant staff ^ Got the club recognition as advertised so double ^^ Location is perfect for everything...

Bad:
Nothing really. Decor a bit dated but who cares when everything else was top-notch.

Would you return?
Without a doubt...

starflyergold
Nov 12, 12, 9:07 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Happy with the physical hotel, service was an issue but they are trying.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked directly with the hotel and agreed on a junior suite in advance.

How was the room?
Excellent room, very stylish and very comfortable

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Excellent room, great bathroom, large terrace, nice pool area. Nicely designed common areas but a tad clinical and therefore lacking atmosphere. Management was willing to listen to complaints.

Bad:
Service was slow and inconsistent at the restaurant and the bar. Overpriced drinks. Turn down service and housekeeping were inconsistent.

Would you return?
Not sure, the hotel yes but Agadir as a destination is a bit dull.

(full review to follow)

elpiett
Nov 14, 12, 1:36 am
What is your Le Club status?
Gold

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, very much so.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked standard (room 301), but got superior (room 503) after asking at check-in. Only reason was that I had initially requested certain things which the superior room didn't offer (i.e. double bed).

How was the room?
Very large, excellent bed (slept like an angel), very quiet with great selection of misc language TV channels ^

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Large room and dead quiet. Brilliant staff ^ Got the club recognition as advertised so double ^^ Location is perfect for everything...

Bad:
Nothing really. Decor a bit dated but who cares when everything else was top-notch.

Would you return?
Without a doubt...
Great to hear, I've booked a room there next week and was wondering if my platinum card would be acknowledged or not.

Goldorak
Nov 14, 12, 9:48 am
Value for money or vouchers? Would you return?
this hotel is generally quite expensive (as most hotels downtown DC), except January/february which is the low season. But yes, I'll return (next stay is already booked for very soon ;) - the hotel sales dept was very efficient to find a dozen rooms+ meeting room for my colleagues and I during a very full period, so a great thank you to them ^).

So I just returned from a new stay there, announced in my previous post. Great stay as usual, but since last month, L'Occitane products have been replaced by Lanvin-branded products :(. Lanvin products are good but was much preferring L'Occitane ;)

starflyergold
Nov 17, 12, 1:41 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Not exactly.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Premium Room, was told at reception that no upgrade was possible as the hotel was sold out. Once I checked on the Accor app I realised that this was untrue and went back and asked them to look again. After an unpleasant exchange they upgraded to a larger room.

How was the room?
The initial room was tiny (just space for bed), the upgraded room was bigger but still small. Nicely designed though.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Very large TV with very large selection of channels from around the world, many in HD. Nice bathroom. Breakfast was pleasant. Bed was comfortable.

Bad:
Noise from the delivery dock below at midnight and early morning, as well as housekeeping in the corridors. Having to argue for upgrade (when being told untruths), no welcome gift, turn down service on one night only.

Would you return?
Only if the price/value proposition improves and they take Le Club rules seriously.

fredandgingermad
Nov 17, 12, 7:58 am
What is your Le Club status?
Gold

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Standard room and got just that

How was the room?
Was good, reasonable size

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Location was good, although calling it a few minutes from Canary Wharf was stretching it a bit, should maybe have stayed at the other Ibis Docklands! Got given a drinks voucher on check-in, was impressed, only at Sofitel has this been given before!

Bad:
Nothing

Value for $$ or Vouchers? Would you return?
Value was pretty good, if was staying in the area or going to something at Excel would happily stay here again, although if it was worth it would possibly check out the Novotel next door!

virtualaris
Dec 2, 12, 8:22 am
Ok..long time hiatus on writing Le Club Elite Experiences here..so I will recap some of my recent stays:

B-Lay Tong Phuket - MGallery Collection

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Are you kidding?? of course !!!

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked one room Deluxe Pool Access and one room on Executive Deluxe. The Executive Deluxe room was upgraded to Spa Suite; which means that it was double upgrade !!! Their Spa Suite has overlooking views both to the Andaman Sea and their pools ! ^^^^

How was the room?
Both of them are spacious and have their own characteristics.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Friendly staffs, ask what is benefit of Platinum member there and told that there are free breakfast for Platinum member ^^, when I check on the next morning; my room has breakfast inclusive mark on the restaurant staff's list :D, I could keep my suite room until 4 pm while I release another room as token of my goodwill to the hotel that have took care us very well.:p

Bad:
Minor thing; probably their spa bathtub on their spa suite needs bit maintenance.

Would you return?
For sure!!!!

virtualaris
Dec 2, 12, 8:35 am
Mercure Jakarta Simatupang

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Much better than I expected from other Mercure that I've ever stayed

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked two superior rooms during their opening sales (180,000 IDR/nite equals to +-14 EUR/nite) without breakfast. Not upgraded but one of the room got the corner room which is probably 2-4 meter bigger than the other room. ^

How was the room?
Being told that the room is about 20m, but it seems more spacious than the actual size. I think that the room arrangement is very good ^

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Friendly staffs comparing to other 4 stars hotel in Jakarta, the staffs are very familiar with Advantage Plus Program (considering that the hotel is very new) so it seems that the staffs have been trained well, very good security (comparing to all other Mercure hotels that I've ever stayed). Late check-out up to 2 pm. The design of the hotel is really beautiful; especially on their restaurant..lot of old telephones from many decades!

Bad:
This is the only 4th Mercure that I've ever stayed and all of the Mercure that I've ever stayed always wrongly posted my points :confused: The hotel only posted one of my room while all my dinner, breakfast, and another room bill were not posted. After making a phone call, everything were sorted out.
The swimming pool is very small. However, it's located on the 19th floor so it has good view of surrounding area

Would you return?
Probably..since it's the nearest Accor property from my home.

virtualaris
Dec 2, 12, 8:42 am
Pullman Beijing West Wanda

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
For sure !!!

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked two executive rooms; one of the room upgraded to their Suite eventhough the occupancy rate was 96 % on that time !!!

How was the room?
The suite room is very spacious; about 75 m and has very wide windows overlooking to the Beijing West Area !!!

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Friendly staffs, I got late check-out up to 6 pm for both of my rooms!!!, I ordered the extra bed (before were upgraded), then after asking for upgrade upon check-in.. and granted. I asked the extra bed to be moved to the Suite but they told me that I shouldn't need any extra bed. When I was check out, the extra bed charges were removed, while additional charges for extra person in breakfast were also removed!!! wow..what a service !!

Bad:
No Free Wifi in all rooms; only in lobby :(

Would you return?
Would be my first choice when I return to Beijing; except Sofitel has a sale or affordable rates :p

elpiett
Dec 9, 12, 4:20 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
All things considered...yes.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Classic room, got upgraded on check-in, without asking, to a "Prestige Suite"

How was the room?
1 lounge area, a hallway with access to the bathroom and then the bedroom in the corner of the hotel, offering spectacular views over the castle, Danube and the chain bridge. Very comfy, huge bed. Nice bathroom with Hermes products.


What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Excellent location

The upgrade ofcourse.

Second day I encountered a problem with the TV (remained stuck on the intro song "life is magnifique"), that got quickly resolved and a few minutes later I found 2 letters under the door, first one apologizing for the electricity problems and a second one inviting us for breakfast for the last 2 days of our stay (more about that later)

Nice gym

Good food from room service

Free wifi, a bit shaky the first day, but fast and reliable the next 3 days.

Late check-out: first we had to check out at noon, but after they saw my status in the PC I got a 4pm checkout without a problem

When finding out my flight was canceled I could use the business centre for free and could call Belgium to get my tickets changed.

Bad:
The room was great but I had troubles keeping it warm. It seems the aging heating system has had its best time.

Problems with the breakfast! The whole breakfast area doesn't seem to be too well managed. Glasses and plates were constantly in short supply, the girl at the door couldn't seem to cope with the people coming in and left people just standing there while she was chatting away.
And even though on the first day we got in without a problem, the second day we were told we were going to be charged. I told her about the letter we got, inviting us for breakfast. She told us to get that letter and go to the reception with it. Reception first also said we had to pay, then read the letter and reluctantly said "well, it would appear that this letter gives you access... ok, you can go up". So we were let in, started our breakfast, and a few minutes later the breakfast manager showed up, asking for the letter again. We gave it, and he promptly disappeared with it, to make a copy of it. When he came back, he ignored us for at least 20 minutes, while we were trying to get his attention. We started fearing he just destroyed the letter and was planning on charging us. After I got up and was going to walk over to him, he got the letter out of his pocket and gave it back to me. I asked if everything was ok, and he assured me it was, even though "we had misunderstood the letter". The whole thing left me with a sour taste. It seems that somebody decided to give out free breakfast, then didn't notify the kitchen and in the end they tried to put the blame with us. Very unpleasant situation. We had breakfast the first day at nearby Gerbeaud and would've been more than happy to go there again if it wasn't for their offer. It all was very unprofessionally dealt with in my opinion. Somebody ....ed up behind the screens, but you should keep your customers out of the internal politics.

Would you return?
Despite the breakfast incident I did enjoy my stay there, so I would look into the hotel again if I was to return to Budapest

Yul_voyager
Dec 9, 12, 8:57 am
What is your Le Club status?

Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?

Yes, definitely

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?

Despite nothing told at FD about my status (didn't expect that as it was a Mercure), was upgrade from a basic 2 doubles garden view to a 2 queens Lake view

How was the room?

Room was basic, bed enough comfortable, bathroom very basic and a bit old... But the view of Lake Wakatipu was just... awesome. One of the most beautiful view I ever had in an hotel.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:

Price (89 NZD incuding 25$ resort credit per day which cover full breakfast buffet)
Lake view, situation
Nice upgrade for an hotel who didn't have to offer it
Very helpful staff

Bad

Internet : no wi-fi in the room, just 5 Mo / 30 min of free wi-fi in the lobby, after what you have to pay a lot...
Bathroom need renovation
Pool and whirlpool too cold
Not in downtown (but that was fine for me as I had a car and don't really enjoy the "big party atmosphere" the evening in Queenstown)

Would you return?

For this range of price, yes definitely...

kope79
Dec 18, 12, 1:31 am
Novotel Barcelona Sant Joan Despi


Next time try Novotel Barcelona City (and ask for a room faceing westwards). It is a nice new hotel with good transport (metro and tram stops, airport train stops 10 minits away).


Novotel Sevilla


I had a similar experience there. Got a "personal" letter in the room with an offer of late check-out and also 2 bottles of free water. Wifi was free.

kope79
Dec 18, 12, 2:04 am
What is your Le Club status?

Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?

Yes, definitely

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?

Booked superior room with magnifique breakfast, got an upgrade to a luxury room.

How was the room?

Nice room with a view.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:

Location, price, breakfast, almost everithing

Bad

Nothing realy

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Yes, I would return. The room had a great price. The rate (magnifique breakfast) included breakfast and had to be paid only at checkout nonethless it was cheaper than the cheapest prepaid rate+breakfast, so i could use some vouchers without any losses. What is also interesting is that a room in Novotel Warszawa Centrum was priced the same then in the Sofitel.

nicolas75
Dec 18, 12, 10:21 am
What is your Le Club status?

Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?

Yes, definitely

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?

Booked superior room with magnifique breakfast, got an upgrade to a luxury room.

How was the room?

Nice room with a view.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:

Location, price, breakfast, almost everithing

Bad

Nothing realy

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Yes, I would return. The room had a great price. The rate (magnifique breakfast) included breakfast and had to be paid only at checkout nonethless it was cheaper than the cheapest prepaid rate+breakfast, so i could use some vouchers without any losses. What is also interesting is that a room in Novotel Warszawa Centrum was priced the same then in the Sofitel.

Location of Sofitel is perfect
but the ugly architecture gives you an instant trip back to the 60s

starflyergold
Dec 18, 12, 1:42 pm
Location of Sofitel is perfect
but the ugly architecture gives you an instant trip back to the 60s

Luckily you don't see that from your room :D

Nice hotel though, I enjoyed it too when I stayed last time.

travellertales
Dec 19, 12, 4:27 am
Seoul Novotel Ambassador Gangnam

What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes - apart from noise.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Classic room, got upgraded on check-in, after asking to exec room

How was the room?
Pretty standard 4* room, nothing special, nothing Korean, international plugs were handy, robes, kettle, single twin beds, average size


What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Excellent location except for the hill, festive lobby, clean


Bad:
Ritz Carlton nightclub next door - bedlam all night from drunk noisy clubbers to 4am, swearing, singing, revving cars, impossible to sleep. VERY NOISY.
Exec room upgrade was just that, use of the room. Lounge access and free wifi not included. Pretty feeble.
lots of tour groups hanging about in lobby
slow check-in/check-out
On a steep hill and icy paths made walking an adventure

Would you return?
No. Glad only had one night with the noise and lack of benefits.

starflyergold
Dec 21, 12, 2:24 pm
What is your Le Club status?

Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?

Yes

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?

Standard room, got junior suite

How was the room?

Nice room with a view and balcony (my favourite room and I seem to get it every time I stay)

What was good and what was bad?

Good:

Upgrade, drinks voucher, late check out (eventually)

Bad:

No welcome gift, when asking for a late check out the trainee told me that they would have to charge. I asked him to look at his screen and try again. Another staff member quickly took over.

Value for $ or Vouchers? Would you return?

Yes and yes.

Goldorak
Dec 23, 12, 4:51 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
overall, no

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Superior room booked and supposedly given. No upgrade (I know upgrades are not normally a perk at Novotel but I'm pretty sure this hotel has higher room categories). In fact I'm not even sure I got the room category I booked because the description on booking (done on Accor web site) mentioned a sofa and there was none. Same in another room booked by family members (platinum also).

How was the room?
Room and bathroom were large, clean and quiet. Nice view on BKK taxiways and nice TG birds ;)

What was good and what was bad?
Good:
- Unbeatable location when you just want to overnight between 2 flights.
- Shuttle service between hotel and terminal well organized and efficient. Shuttle drivers and staff taking care of luggage transfers were also very nice and helpful.
- very nice lobby. Nice rooms for Novotel. Several restaurants
- if you take the offer "bed & breakfast", you are given 1 voucher per person that you can use either for dinner (buffet) or for breakfast at the main restaurant (The Square).
- Le Club members can check-in/out at business center (but no mention of this anywhere :rolleyes: )
- points posted within 24 hrs (and correct amount)

Bad:

- price : this hotel is very expensive for Thailand (more expensive than the Sofitels in town). You pay a premium for the airport terminal location, as everywhere in the world. But of course, you know that when you book so no surprise of course.

- no free wi-fi

- Check-in and mostly check-out processes. The latter was the perfect demonstration of the total lack of training of staff we are witnessing so (too) often at many Accor properties (see details below).
- Cold staff at reception, business center and restaurant. They were not rude but there was a total lack of warmth and were pretty inefficient. I found this very surprising when you know how nice and professional the hotel staff are usually in Thailand.

- Check-in : we arrived around 9:30 pm at the hotel. There were very long lines for checking-in (the hotel was obviously very busy). So I asked one staff member in the lobby if there was a dedicated desk for Le Club members (as I saw such desks in several Novotel but usually they were always unstaffed). He replied that we could go to the business center. This is nice but written nowhere (no signs). We arrived at this business center and a woman took care of us. But check-in formalities took forever (she was typing and typing I don't know what on her computer without saying a word). No signs at all of status recognition and I did not bother to ask anything as we were all tired and would just stay overnight with a check-out planned around 8:30 am.

- dinner at restaurant : buffet was good (in terms of quality and wide choice) but staff was very slow to remove plates or to bring you wine list (you needed to ask twice or ask them to remove plates). They just seemed "bored".

- Check-out : clearly what made me considered this stay as a bad one because until now things were OK, although nothing exceptional as described previously. I supposed we could check-out at the business center but as there were almost nobody at the regular front desk, we've been there for check-out. I wanted to use 3 Le Club vouchers of $60 each to pay part of the bill and I gave these vouchers with my CC to the attendant. I saw rapidly that she was not even looking at the vouchers but only at my CC :rolleyes:, so I say to her that I have 3 Le Club vouchers to use. So she looked finally at the vouchers and said "What is this ?". I was already thinking inside me "oh no, not again :mad:...". So I repeated : "those are Le Club redemption vouchers".
Attendant : "OK but what do you want me to do with this ?"
I was starting to boil inside :eek:
Me : "this is to pay part of the bill"
Attendant : "oh, but you need to do this on the internet"
Me : Sorry but no. You obtain the vouchers on the internet and that's what I did but now, for the payment you have to enter the voucher numbers in your system"
Attendant : "I don't know how to do this. I see that yesterday you checked-in at the business center. So you should have gone there for check-out. They know how to do this. I can't do it" :mad::mad::mad:
Time was passing and we had an int'l flight to catch and this was beginning to really take too much time.
Me : "This is an Accor hotel, right ? So basically you are telling me that you are not trained to Accor policies and procedures ? I came here at the regular front desk because there was no line, so no need to go to the business center for a simple check-out, even with vouchers involved. I paid many many times at Accor hotels with vouchers without problems. Now I'm starting to run out of time and it is out of the question that I will go to the business center to start again the whole process."

So she called the business center for help and a woman from there came at the front desk and explained her what to do. But the madness was not finished. She asked me to sign the vouchers. First time I'm asked to do this but OK, if it can please them, I did it. Then she gave me 3 A4 blanks sheets of paper and asked me to sign these blanked pages :confused: So I asked why. I did not understand at all what she explained me but I think I finally understood that they have a kind of form to fill when there is a payment with vouchers and that she did not bring them with her from the business center, so I have to sign these blank pages. I of course refused to do so saying that I don't sign blanked pages and asked to speak to their manager. He was also there at the front desk taking care of other guests check-out. I summarized the problems encountered but he was unhelpful and just repeated that I should have gone to the business center which has trained staff (confirming de facto that the others are untrained. Unbelievable but true :eek:). No apologies from him. They did not insist for signing the blank pages. Completely pathetic...

Would you return?
No, except if I need to overnight between 2 close flights at BKK because no other choice and unbeatable location.

Again, as a summary, lack of training, training and training as in too many Accor hotels.

starflyergold
Dec 23, 12, 5:06 am
What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
overall, no



That is absolutely appalling Goldorak:mad:. This is exactly the kind of treatment that will put people off ever staying at an Accor hotel again, made even worse when it involves a loyal customer of the group.

If we as customers can learn the details of Le Club why on earth is it so impossible for Accor staffers to do the same? :td:

elpiett
Dec 25, 12, 2:12 am
That is absolutely appalling Goldorak:mad:. This is exactly the kind of treatment that will put people off ever staying at an Accor hotel again, made even worse when it involves a loyal customer of the group.

If we as customers can learn the details of Le Club why on earth is it so impossible for Accor staffers to do the same? :td:

Indeed. Will you be contacting Accor over this, Goldorak?

virtualaris
Dec 25, 12, 5:25 am
If I were Goldorak, I would rather email to the GM so proper training both for Le Club program and attitude would be held.

Indeed. Will you be contacting Accor over this, Goldorak?

olisch
Dec 25, 12, 9:21 am
Would you return?
No, except if I need to overnight between 2 close flights at BKK because no other choice and unbeatable location.

Som nam na ;) plenty reports in the internet (and here as well) that this is just a 3 star hotel (at best) which charges rates for a 5 star hotel. My stay there in march wasn't much better than yours.

Anyway there are tons of hotels in Ladkrabang that offer decent accomodation including breakfast and a free shuttle transfer for a fraction of Novotel's rate. Maybe you have a look at The Vismaya (http://www.thevismaya.com/index.htm).

Goldorak
Dec 25, 12, 2:23 pm
Indeed. Will you be contacting Accor over this, Goldorak?

If I were Goldorak, I would rather email to the GM so proper training both for Le Club program and attitude would be held.

In fact, I was waiting to see if I would receive the classical satisfaction survey we receive after a stay. But nothing received so far, except an automatic e-mail hoping that I had a nice stay and suggesting me to make a comment on TripAdvisor :rolleyes:
So I will likely send something to the GM when I have time (these last weeks, I have spent way too much time to monitor and following-up Accor points problems and am tired of this but I want to emphasize that Accorconcierge (Chris) has been very helpful).



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