Undergoing Serious Construction - Avoid Until Complete

We have visited the HR SSH many times over the last 10 years, but this occasion was incredibly disappointing. The GM of the PH Istanbul appears to be seconded here and, frankly, I would expect better from a GM of a flagship property.

The hotel is undergoing very serious construction with Bulldozers, Bobcats and Drilling that you can hear all day. Apparently, the hotel is being upgraded for security reasons but neither the hotel website, the reservation booking process or the hotel via email alert you to the fact that there is construction.

When questioned we were told the construction "was a different hotel" despite it being immediately next to the Regency Club pool and above the Regency Club beach.

I recorded several videos, emailed the GM and Hyatt Consumer Affairs and only then did they acknowledge the issue. They stopped the construction for the rest of our stay which we appreciated, but it clearly would affect all current guests.

As always, Club guests are whisked from reception to the Club Lounge for check in.

We always book Junior Suites as these are on the top floors of the two story villas whereas the Regency Suites are on the bottom floor and although bigger, do not have sea views.

 

Unfortunately, most of the good staff have departed and the hotel has hired new staff who lack any sufficient hospitality training.

At breakfast they stand around looking bored rather than cleaning up after guests finish or oferring tea and coffee when seated.

Ironically, while at reception we ran into the HR Manager who asked how our stay was. When we told her of these issues her response is "Well, we can't really control them.." Speaks for itself.

The food offerings in the Club Lounge are always great, although we generally had breakfast in the restaurant.

Surprisingly, the food quality has improved since our last stay.

The main drawcard to the hotel remains its house reef.

We hired a private yacht with a company unrelated to the hotel and the Divemaster acknowledged that the Hyatt's house reef, reached by jetty from the Regency Club beach, is the most spectacular snorkelling and dive sight in the area.

Overall, the construction almost ruined our stay. While they ceased construction because of our complaint, not notifying guests in advance is unforgivable.

Hyatt, *wood and Hilton all state construction on their property website or during the booking process and for a GM from the PH Istanbul to not have informed guests is appalling.

Until construction is complete we will probably stay at the Four Seasons.