Just completed a one night stay in one of the newly renovated rooms.
- At check-in, asked about suite availability and was offered a non-view suite - which we declined and took the pre-assigned harbour view room.
- Disappointingly, the said pre-assigned room was NOT ready when we checked-in around 2.30pm. Was eventually switched to another room on the same floor after a half-hour wait in the (still unrenovated) lobby "Club lounge". At 3.00pm+, housekeeping was still actively servicing multiple rooms on Level 14 when we walked past.
- Speaking of housekeeping, there was a vacuum cleaner and empty room service table left in the corridor during our entire 24 hour stay.
- The renovated room itself smelled brand new. Would describe the first impressions as inoffensive and very generic. Reminds me of the Courtyard Marriott in Phnom Penh where I have spent many nights, pre-Covid.
- Room flaws:
- Surprisingly small TV (prob no larger than 24 inches) which looks even smaller on the big wall expanse;
- Shower basin drains at a MUCH lower rate than the flow from the shower head. One can barely keep the water on for a couple of minutes without it overflowing;
- Still using manual curtains, post-renovation. (Even the Courtyard SYP where I have recently been "imprisoned" has automatic blinds.)
- Airconditioning noise is noticeable. Still borderline acceptable for an old hotel, but would have hoped that the renovation would have addressed this.
- The bathroom had one tiny bottle each of amenities - definitely insufficient for 2 guests.
- There was still intermittent renovation noise thru the day, but not overly intrusive.
- Received a fruit plate, but neither a personal nor generic Elite welcome note. It's not a big deal, but after great stays at multiple properties as a Gold and Plat, it is noticeable when no one in the front office bothers to make an effort.
- Common areas remain unrenovated for the time being. Actually don't mind the 1990s chic while it's still around.
- We parked our car overnight at the H Zentral next door. Was disappointed to discover that the hotel offers F&B guests preferential parking rates at H Zentral, but not staying guests. What gives?
Overall not an especially impressive test stay at this partially renovated property. 5/10 at best.