Please post your Royal Ambassador experiences (Archive Thread 2015)
Jan 20, 2015, 4:57 pm
#31
Join Date: Sep 2000
Location: Stuck on this planet - mainly in STR and LAX
Posts: 5,019
IC Dubai
Intercontinental Dubai
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, absolutely (except the problem at check in)
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked with points, received what seems to be a normal room, free club, minibar
How are the rooms?
relatively small (most likely I am spoiled by all the suite upgrades). Combination shower/bathtub
How is the exec. lounge?
Excellent, one of the best lounges with many selections for breakfast, lunch (yes, lunch), afternoon tea, and cocktail hour (every night has one extra hot dish to order - scallop, fish, steak ...). Service is excellent, attentive, and polite.
What was your welcome gift?
Could choose between pen, dink voucher and some others
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes, replenished every day
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Club lounge
- service in the hotel / club / concierge other than front desk
BAD
Had to wait for an room for almost an hour at check in and had to push and start complaining before they finally found a room - and this was in the eavening at not early in the morning)
No information about club access - would not have found out if I had not asked.
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, definitely.
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, absolutely (except the problem at check in)
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked with points, received what seems to be a normal room, free club, minibar
How are the rooms?
relatively small (most likely I am spoiled by all the suite upgrades). Combination shower/bathtub
How is the exec. lounge?
Excellent, one of the best lounges with many selections for breakfast, lunch (yes, lunch), afternoon tea, and cocktail hour (every night has one extra hot dish to order - scallop, fish, steak ...). Service is excellent, attentive, and polite.
What was your welcome gift?
Could choose between pen, dink voucher and some others
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes, replenished every day
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Club lounge
- service in the hotel / club / concierge other than front desk
BAD
Had to wait for an room for almost an hour at check in and had to push and start complaining before they finally found a room - and this was in the eavening at not early in the morning)
No information about club access - would not have found out if I had not asked.
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, definitely.
Jan 20, 2015, 5:04 pm
#32
Join Date: Sep 2000
Location: Stuck on this planet - mainly in STR and LAX
Posts: 5,019
IC Abu Dhabi
Intercontinental Abu Dhabi
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
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, got upgrade to junior suite with club
How are the rooms?
Decent size but dated/tired. A/C did not work properly.
How is the exec. lounge?
Big, too cold.
Food selections are boring, almost same thing offered every day. Food quality is substandard, almost unedible.
Staff is nice but need more training, for example, not touching the food with fingers when serving guests.
What was your welcome gift?
Didn't receive at first. After asking a few dates.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes, a few every day.
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Concierge was friendly
BAD
- Hotel is dated, sad shape
- Club lounge, especially food there
- Breakfast selection and quality in main restaurant
Would you return?
Most likely not.
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
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, got upgrade to junior suite with club
How are the rooms?
Decent size but dated/tired. A/C did not work properly.
How is the exec. lounge?
Big, too cold.
Food selections are boring, almost same thing offered every day. Food quality is substandard, almost unedible.
Staff is nice but need more training, for example, not touching the food with fingers when serving guests.
What was your welcome gift?
Didn't receive at first. After asking a few dates.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes, a few every day.
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Concierge was friendly
BAD
- Hotel is dated, sad shape
- Club lounge, especially food there
- Breakfast selection and quality in main restaurant
Would you return?
Most likely not.
Jan 22, 2015, 6:48 am
#33
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: Amsterdam, Asia, UK
Programs: IHG RA (Spire), HH Diamond, MR Platinum, SQ Gold, KLM Gold, BAEC Gold
Posts: 5,072
Intercontinental Park Lane
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
definitely, as always
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
o entry level Classic (Noted the extra Classic/Superior/Deluxe London types now)
o Exec London Room modify 4days out
o Checkin 9am, Room occupied checkin could not move me as blocked
.. Seems manager, Christine had blocked room as organizing my preferred minibar for me. Christine fetched and unblocked and moved me to 1st Floor studio suite
How are the rooms?
o Inside but not courtyard view. Orientation gives 2x large windows
o Larger than usual sofa plus 2 armchairs + glass coffee table.
o One of the smaller bathrooms, no separate shower, usual Agraria soaps
o Comfy King Bed, pillows.
o work desk + Chair
o Wall unit with integral TV. On bracket so need pull out and angle to bed or sofa to watch.
Water, Gift Fruit Provided ?
o Mandarins as usual, 1large water , usual choc-chip-cookies as gift
How is the exec. lounge?
o First 2015 visit, still 65+vat, ie 78gbp for RAs
o Very quiet apart from breakfast and/or drinks hour
o Usual great breakfast choices offering
+ I ordered my usual kippers (got to be healthier than fried brekkie0
o Usual afternoon tea/scones/sarnies
o Usual (to me) poor canapés for evening ... The only let down at this lounge
o still serving Moet
o Same staff as usual (except one lounge staff member is now on checkin reception desk )
What was good and what was bad?
Good
+ The staff
+ Checkin/Checkout experience, even with 9am in and 4pm out
+ Room upgrade
+ Record keeping and providing of my preferences (minibar fill, newspapers, room likes etc)
+ All RA bennies without any discussions as always
+ Food ordered in Lounge on Lounge Bill for eating in room (for 1Q2015 promo). Fealt a bit bad as 2x lounge staff brought meal to my 1st floor room. I did tip 5gbp cash on top of 4gbp lounge service fee. Lounge Staff volunteered to do this for me when I asked about the billing department
+ Minibar changed/personalised just 10mins after I reached my room
+ 10k points/night earnings .. used be fixed 4k/stay
Bad
- Nothing
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, I have and will again
Definitely value, as only about half the paid rate I pay most other months
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
definitely, as always
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
o entry level Classic (Noted the extra Classic/Superior/Deluxe London types now)
o Exec London Room modify 4days out
o Checkin 9am, Room occupied checkin could not move me as blocked
.. Seems manager, Christine had blocked room as organizing my preferred minibar for me. Christine fetched and unblocked and moved me to 1st Floor studio suite
How are the rooms?
o Inside but not courtyard view. Orientation gives 2x large windows
o Larger than usual sofa plus 2 armchairs + glass coffee table.
o One of the smaller bathrooms, no separate shower, usual Agraria soaps
o Comfy King Bed, pillows.
o work desk + Chair
o Wall unit with integral TV. On bracket so need pull out and angle to bed or sofa to watch.
Water, Gift Fruit Provided ?
o Mandarins as usual, 1large water , usual choc-chip-cookies as gift
How is the exec. lounge?
o First 2015 visit, still 65+vat, ie 78gbp for RAs
o Very quiet apart from breakfast and/or drinks hour
o Usual great breakfast choices offering
+ I ordered my usual kippers (got to be healthier than fried brekkie0
o Usual afternoon tea/scones/sarnies
o Usual (to me) poor canapés for evening ... The only let down at this lounge
o still serving Moet
o Same staff as usual (except one lounge staff member is now on checkin reception desk )
What was good and what was bad?
Good
+ The staff
+ Checkin/Checkout experience, even with 9am in and 4pm out
+ Room upgrade
+ Record keeping and providing of my preferences (minibar fill, newspapers, room likes etc)
+ All RA bennies without any discussions as always
+ Food ordered in Lounge on Lounge Bill for eating in room (for 1Q2015 promo). Fealt a bit bad as 2x lounge staff brought meal to my 1st floor room. I did tip 5gbp cash on top of 4gbp lounge service fee. Lounge Staff volunteered to do this for me when I asked about the billing department
+ Minibar changed/personalised just 10mins after I reached my room
+ 10k points/night earnings .. used be fixed 4k/stay
Bad
- Nothing
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, I have and will again
Definitely value, as only about half the paid rate I pay most other months
Last edited by scubaccr; Jan 22, 2015 at 6:55 am
Jan 22, 2015, 6:52 am
#34
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: N/A
Programs: 100m swimming certificate level 5
Posts: 1,456
Jan 25, 2015, 7:36 pm
#35
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Los Angeles
Programs: UA 1K, DL Silver/MM, IHG Platinum/RA, Marriott Gold, Hilton Silver
Posts: 11
Intercontinental Montreal
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
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 King Corner Club Room and got Ambassador IC Suite
How are the rooms?
Separate bedroom, 1 1/2 baths, nice view.
How is the exec. lounge?
Great for breakfast and evening meals. Got a good wine selection and very attentive staff
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Great location in Old Montreal
- Close to restaurants and shopping
BAD
- This may not bother other guests but I thought lighting could be improved especially in the living room. I do not think I could read the paper at night while seated on the sofa in the living room.
Value for $$ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes! Am almost a regular at this hotel.
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked King Corner Club Room and got Ambassador IC Suite
How are the rooms?
Separate bedroom, 1 1/2 baths, nice view.
How is the exec. lounge?
Great for breakfast and evening meals. Got a good wine selection and very attentive staff
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Great location in Old Montreal
- Close to restaurants and shopping
BAD
- This may not bother other guests but I thought lighting could be improved especially in the living room. I do not think I could read the paper at night while seated on the sofa in the living room.
Value for $$ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes! Am almost a regular at this hotel.
Jan 25, 2015, 11:39 pm
#36
Join Date: May 2010
Posts: 202
I will echo most of the comments about IC Abu Dhabi (AD) noted above
many hotels (like this one) in the UAE are far more interested in selling alcohol and meals, they have little regard for pesky hotel guests
however I do like the lounge here, it is a cool space with terrace that looks out to the sea. Some IC lounges put out a big spread of food for Happy Hour but I understand that hotels also want to sell restaurant meals, so the least I expect is high quality appetisers, which IC Abu Dhabi fails on.
there are many new hotels here in AD but as RAs, we must rack up the nights each year and I need to be in AD quite a few nights a year, so you need to ..... a bit here
many hotels (like this one) in the UAE are far more interested in selling alcohol and meals, they have little regard for pesky hotel guests
however I do like the lounge here, it is a cool space with terrace that looks out to the sea. Some IC lounges put out a big spread of food for Happy Hour but I understand that hotels also want to sell restaurant meals, so the least I expect is high quality appetisers, which IC Abu Dhabi fails on.
there are many new hotels here in AD but as RAs, we must rack up the nights each year and I need to be in AD quite a few nights a year, so you need to ..... a bit here
Jan 26, 2015, 6:59 pm
#37
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: SoCal
Programs: UA 1K 2Millon Mile Flyer, IC Diamond Royal Ambassador Inner Circle, Bonvoy Gold
Posts: 479
Intercontinental Tokyo Bay
Intercontinental Tokyo Bay
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, with exceptions noted below
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked superior room at lowest rate and reservation showed "Club Superior" prior to checkin.
How are the rooms?
Rooms are modern and comfortable. Decent mini bar and in room coffee pods/makers. Standard bathroom amenities with nice towels. Great views of Tokyo Bay.
How is the exec. lounge?
Nice lounge on the 20th floor with beautiful views over the Tokyo Bay. Good breakfast selection until 1100 daily, including an omelette station until 9:30am. Evening drinks were nice, and you could easily make dinner out of the food offerings. At 9pm, the lounge converts to a Sky View cocktail bar, with outside guests invited in for a pay bar.
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
-Convenient location with a free shuttle to and from nearby Hamamatsucho train station every 20 minutes
-Nice views of Tokyo Bay
-RA's get 10 percent discount on hotel restaurants
-Nice amenity and fresh fruit presentation in room.
BAD
-Fitness room is rather weak, with just a few cardio machines. It requires a trip to the front desk to get a special key and sign a waiver to access.
-Upon checkout, I was informed that although I was in a "Club Room" the Club access was not included. In the future, I would be charged a discounted fee of 5000Y (approx $50 US)/day for lounge access. Knowing the history of FT reviews with this property, I specifically requested "Club IC Access rather than the upgrade as an RA benefit" on the reservation notes. I didn't receive or expect a room upgrade. The checkout agent was not fluent in English and seemed a little flustered with the explanation, so I just dropped it and will follow up with the management. They have a standard letter which they give to RA's, explaining their stance. This parting shot left a bad taste in my mouth after an otherwise pleasant stay.
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
The stay was a good value for the money assuming I received my RA benefits (a real upgrade and/or lounge access). If they didn't honor the spirit of RA benefits in the future, I wouldn't return.
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, with exceptions noted below
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked superior room at lowest rate and reservation showed "Club Superior" prior to checkin.
How are the rooms?
Rooms are modern and comfortable. Decent mini bar and in room coffee pods/makers. Standard bathroom amenities with nice towels. Great views of Tokyo Bay.
How is the exec. lounge?
Nice lounge on the 20th floor with beautiful views over the Tokyo Bay. Good breakfast selection until 1100 daily, including an omelette station until 9:30am. Evening drinks were nice, and you could easily make dinner out of the food offerings. At 9pm, the lounge converts to a Sky View cocktail bar, with outside guests invited in for a pay bar.
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
-Convenient location with a free shuttle to and from nearby Hamamatsucho train station every 20 minutes
-Nice views of Tokyo Bay
-RA's get 10 percent discount on hotel restaurants
-Nice amenity and fresh fruit presentation in room.
BAD
-Fitness room is rather weak, with just a few cardio machines. It requires a trip to the front desk to get a special key and sign a waiver to access.
-Upon checkout, I was informed that although I was in a "Club Room" the Club access was not included. In the future, I would be charged a discounted fee of 5000Y (approx $50 US)/day for lounge access. Knowing the history of FT reviews with this property, I specifically requested "Club IC Access rather than the upgrade as an RA benefit" on the reservation notes. I didn't receive or expect a room upgrade. The checkout agent was not fluent in English and seemed a little flustered with the explanation, so I just dropped it and will follow up with the management. They have a standard letter which they give to RA's, explaining their stance. This parting shot left a bad taste in my mouth after an otherwise pleasant stay.
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
The stay was a good value for the money assuming I received my RA benefits (a real upgrade and/or lounge access). If they didn't honor the spirit of RA benefits in the future, I wouldn't return.
Last edited by FLYGVA; Jan 27, 2015 at 12:10 am Reason: added name of hotel to post, not only to thread title
Jan 27, 2015, 11:33 pm
#38
Moderator: InterContinental Hotels and Germany
Join Date: Oct 2002
Posts: 6,552
Please follow the discussion about the access to the cliub room at the IC Tokyo Bay in this thread:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/inter...kyo-bay-4.html
The review has been copied to this thread and all following posts moved.
Thank you
FLYGVA
co-moderator IHG Forum
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/inter...kyo-bay-4.html
The review has been copied to this thread and all following posts moved.
Thank you
FLYGVA
co-moderator IHG Forum
Jan 28, 2015, 2:25 am
#39
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: PARIS (France)
Programs: AF/KLM Club 2000 | InterContinental Diamond RA |AMEX Plat | Visa Infinite |Hertz President's Circle
Posts: 10,963
InterContinental Frankfurt
IC Frankfurt
What is your IHG Rewards Club Status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador.
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, very much
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked the cheapest Weekend escape rate and received a Studio club room floor, with club access. I had a choice between Panorama Suite, but prefer the design of the Studio club.
How are the rooms?
Around 50sqm
Classic and elegant design (recently softly renovated)
Seating area with sofa, elegant desk
Nespresso machine, kettle, desk. No iPhone dock
View over the river Main and museum district
Very comfortable bed
Bathrooms with bathtub and separate walk-in shower. Eau d'Orange Verte Hermès amenities.
Large flat screen television with massive selection of international channels (and good on demand movies selection).
Very quiet
Fast wifi
Video of the Studio Club suite
How is the exec. lounge?
Pleasant decor and atmosphere. View over the River. Terrace. Quiet
Very kind staff
Good selection of evening canapés. Hot meals. Drinks. Afternoon pastries.
What was good and what was bad?
Good:
- Excellent quality of service: very professional and attentive staff
- Central location (10 minutes walk to luxury shopping district, most museums, Opera). 5 minutes walk to the Central Station, with easy transfer to the airport.
- Pleasant club lounge and suite
- Very good breakfast, with large selection
Bad:
- Nothing indeed
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points?Would you return?
Yes, for location, quality of service and renovated suites.
What is your IHG Rewards Club Status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador.
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, very much
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked the cheapest Weekend escape rate and received a Studio club room floor, with club access. I had a choice between Panorama Suite, but prefer the design of the Studio club.
How are the rooms?
Around 50sqm
Classic and elegant design (recently softly renovated)
Seating area with sofa, elegant desk
Nespresso machine, kettle, desk. No iPhone dock
View over the river Main and museum district
Very comfortable bed
Bathrooms with bathtub and separate walk-in shower. Eau d'Orange Verte Hermès amenities.
Large flat screen television with massive selection of international channels (and good on demand movies selection).
Very quiet
Fast wifi
Video of the Studio Club suite
How is the exec. lounge?
Pleasant decor and atmosphere. View over the River. Terrace. Quiet
Very kind staff
Good selection of evening canapés. Hot meals. Drinks. Afternoon pastries.
What was good and what was bad?
Good:
- Excellent quality of service: very professional and attentive staff
- Central location (10 minutes walk to luxury shopping district, most museums, Opera). 5 minutes walk to the Central Station, with easy transfer to the airport.
- Pleasant club lounge and suite
- Very good breakfast, with large selection
Bad:
- Nothing indeed
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points?Would you return?
Yes, for location, quality of service and renovated suites.
Last edited by FLYGVA; Feb 24, 2015 at 12:16 am Reason: added name of property to post instead of title only
Feb 8, 2015, 4:49 pm
#40
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Programs: IHG Royal Ambassador
Posts: 824
InterContinental Yokohama Grand
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador.
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.
Received Designers Guild Suite (one of variations in Harbour Suite)
Currently Club Floor is closing due to under renovation until Mar.22nd. All RAs will upgrade to the Suite during this period.
How are the rooms?
82sqm well appointed suite. But Dated. But now this hotel is under renovation. This room also will renovate within this year.
http://youtu.be/16mqfaALiJ8 (Day View)
http://youtu.be/_lZBckwRIuY (Night View)
How is the Club Lounge?
N/A (Now under renovation)
Hotel offers Breakfast, Tea service, and Cocktail service at the restaurant and lobby lounge instead of Club Lounge Services.
What was your welcome gift?
Chocolate Box
How was the mini-bar?
Acceptable as always.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
+ RA recognition
+ Location
++ Fantastic staff
++ Nice Chinese Restaurant
+++ Suite upgrade
BAD
- Dated room (But it will be solved soon!)
Value for $ or Rewards Club Points?
Weekday stay has good value. Average 17k JPY par night.
I don't recommend to stay here in weekend. Weekend rate is crazy expensive!
Also I don't recommend to use Points in here. (50K points? impossible!)
Would you return?
Yes.
Platinum Royal Ambassador.
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.
Received Designers Guild Suite (one of variations in Harbour Suite)
Currently Club Floor is closing due to under renovation until Mar.22nd. All RAs will upgrade to the Suite during this period.
How are the rooms?
82sqm well appointed suite. But Dated. But now this hotel is under renovation. This room also will renovate within this year.
http://youtu.be/16mqfaALiJ8 (Day View)
http://youtu.be/_lZBckwRIuY (Night View)
How is the Club Lounge?
N/A (Now under renovation)
Hotel offers Breakfast, Tea service, and Cocktail service at the restaurant and lobby lounge instead of Club Lounge Services.
What was your welcome gift?
Chocolate Box
How was the mini-bar?
Acceptable as always.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
+ RA recognition
+ Location
++ Fantastic staff
++ Nice Chinese Restaurant
+++ Suite upgrade
BAD
- Dated room (But it will be solved soon!)
Value for $ or Rewards Club Points?
Weekday stay has good value. Average 17k JPY par night.
I don't recommend to stay here in weekend. Weekend rate is crazy expensive!
Also I don't recommend to use Points in here. (50K points? impossible!)
Would you return?
Yes.
Feb 9, 2015, 6:38 am
#41
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: PARIS (France)
Programs: AF/KLM Club 2000 | InterContinental Diamond RA |AMEX Plat | Visa Infinite |Hertz President's Circle
Posts: 10,963
InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam
IC Amstel Amsterdam
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Not as usual
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Executive River view with breakfast and received an executive suite with river view.
How are the rooms?
Very elegant
3,40 m height from floor to ceiling
Around 55 sqm
Antiques, Iran rug, Books
2 large flat screen TV (one with surround system)
iPod dock
Francis Francis! illy espresso coffee machine
bathroom with the magic bathtub (filled in 2 minutes) and seperate shower, Molton Brown amenities
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Grandeur of the décor
- Boutique hotel feeling
- The spa and pool have been very nicely renovated
- The new A bar is elegant and has a trendy atmosphere
- Fast wifi
- Loved the pastries at breakfast
BAD
- I can perfectly understand that a historical property is not in the same state than a brand new building (and it is precisely the charm of such buildings). Still, I do believe that it is not acceptable to have in a five stars property stains on the floor, frayed sofa, damaged coffee table, humidity on bathroom ceiling, holes in towel.
- Even more shocking was the poor quality of service experienced at the hotel during my last stay. A bellman waiting outside, despite cold weather, but without saying hello, opening the door or of course helping with luggage. Check-in done by a trainee (at Ambassador desk) with poor experience, lack of basic kindness, doing things like a robot, and not being able to answer at a simple question (until what time is served breakfast on Sundays). A call for having a plate of fruits delivered (Ambassador welcome gift)... which never came. Absolutely not a single member of staff met in the corridors saying hello (and only one replying when saying hello). A member of staff running outside the building and turning the revolving door so quickly that I was nearly hurt by the door. A housemaid going out of the elevator without looking in front of her and bumping into guests. At breakfast, staff running in every direction but we had to have intense eye contact to finally be asked what drink and eggs we would like to have. Coffee arrived 10 minutes later (cold, and with no spoon) and we had to wait more than 20 minutes our frying eggs to be told : “Huh, could you repeat what was you order?”. And finally bike which was delivered...with a flat tire.
- Fortunately, in this world of terrible service, there were some nice exceptions at the bar and the spa (smiling, attentive and professional staff).
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Well, compared to the quality of service at the Waldorf Astoria (even if I am not a big fan of the design), I must say that Amstel should definitely take action to be again my favourite hotel in Amsterdam.
Video of the Executive suite with river view
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Not as usual
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Executive River view with breakfast and received an executive suite with river view.
How are the rooms?
Very elegant
3,40 m height from floor to ceiling
Around 55 sqm
Antiques, Iran rug, Books
2 large flat screen TV (one with surround system)
iPod dock
Francis Francis! illy espresso coffee machine
bathroom with the magic bathtub (filled in 2 minutes) and seperate shower, Molton Brown amenities
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Grandeur of the décor
- Boutique hotel feeling
- The spa and pool have been very nicely renovated
- The new A bar is elegant and has a trendy atmosphere
- Fast wifi
- Loved the pastries at breakfast
BAD
- I can perfectly understand that a historical property is not in the same state than a brand new building (and it is precisely the charm of such buildings). Still, I do believe that it is not acceptable to have in a five stars property stains on the floor, frayed sofa, damaged coffee table, humidity on bathroom ceiling, holes in towel.
- Even more shocking was the poor quality of service experienced at the hotel during my last stay. A bellman waiting outside, despite cold weather, but without saying hello, opening the door or of course helping with luggage. Check-in done by a trainee (at Ambassador desk) with poor experience, lack of basic kindness, doing things like a robot, and not being able to answer at a simple question (until what time is served breakfast on Sundays). A call for having a plate of fruits delivered (Ambassador welcome gift)... which never came. Absolutely not a single member of staff met in the corridors saying hello (and only one replying when saying hello). A member of staff running outside the building and turning the revolving door so quickly that I was nearly hurt by the door. A housemaid going out of the elevator without looking in front of her and bumping into guests. At breakfast, staff running in every direction but we had to have intense eye contact to finally be asked what drink and eggs we would like to have. Coffee arrived 10 minutes later (cold, and with no spoon) and we had to wait more than 20 minutes our frying eggs to be told : “Huh, could you repeat what was you order?”. And finally bike which was delivered...with a flat tire.
- Fortunately, in this world of terrible service, there were some nice exceptions at the bar and the spa (smiling, attentive and professional staff).
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Well, compared to the quality of service at the Waldorf Astoria (even if I am not a big fan of the design), I must say that Amstel should definitely take action to be again my favourite hotel in Amsterdam.
Video of the Executive suite with river view
Last edited by FLYGVA; Feb 24, 2015 at 12:16 am Reason: added name of property to post instead of title only
Feb 11, 2015, 10:43 pm
#42
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Shanghai and Bavaria
Programs: Spire RA, 1865 Voyager, Bonvoy Titanium, FB LP, LH SEN.
Posts: 3,104
IC Beijing Beichen
IC Beijing Beichen
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, got premier suite with club access.
How are the rooms?
Very large, well maintained suite. Comfortable bed. Spacious bathroom, guest bathroom. Separate living room.
How is the exec. lounge?
Great, as usual.
Fabulous staff
Food at happy hour and breakfast have been the same for the last years - a change might be due
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Upgrade
- Staff
- Location
- Great Italian restaurant
- Nice pool
- Very fast internet
- The hotel bar has been replaced with an "antique" shop - looks a tad awkward
Value for CNY or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Excellent value during the less busy season before Chinese New Year. Would return anytime.
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, got premier suite with club access.
How are the rooms?
Very large, well maintained suite. Comfortable bed. Spacious bathroom, guest bathroom. Separate living room.
How is the exec. lounge?
Great, as usual.
Fabulous staff
Food at happy hour and breakfast have been the same for the last years - a change might be due
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Upgrade
- Staff
- Location
- Great Italian restaurant
- Nice pool
- Very fast internet
- The hotel bar has been replaced with an "antique" shop - looks a tad awkward
Value for CNY or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Excellent value during the less busy season before Chinese New Year. Would return anytime.
Last edited by Chinatrvl; Feb 12, 2015 at 5:16 am
Feb 19, 2015, 12:38 am
#43
Join Date: May 2003
Location: Bangkok, Thailand. No longer Palm Coast, FL though still exiled, again, from the Bay Area.
Programs: Only the good ones
Posts: 5,153
IC Wuxi (again)
IC Wuxi
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, as always, though one little issue-breakfast at the iCafe vs Club Lounge which was resolved easily.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked King Jr Suite, got King 1 Bed IC Club Suite with club access.
How are the rooms?
125 sq m, so very large, well maintained suite. Comfortable bed. Spacious bathroom with huge tub (my wife asked if I could teach her how to swim in that,) guest bathroom. Separate living room. Both rooms have large flat screen TV's and plenty of additional seating.
How is the exec. lounge?
Great, as usual. Fabulous food though they didn't have any good Scotch.
Fabulous staff
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Upgrade
- Staff
- Location
- Great breakfast with egg made to order, sushi, dim sum, salad bar, and just about anything you want, at the iCafe. (We never have eaten breakfast at the Club Lounge, but more on that below.)
- Huge pool
- Very fast internet and my VPN works well here.
Not so good:
-Well, we always have had breakfast included at the iCafe, but today the "captain" said it's not included, then another said it was, then the server brought a bill. Talked with the front desk staff, and first the staff member said not included, then the manager got involved and explained that they changed to Club Lounge BK only unless the rate included BK, but he made an exception based upon our previous stay pattern and RA status. So, next time may have to considered something different.
Value for CNY or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Excellent value during the less busy season before Chinese New Year, though it looks like they will get really busy tomorrow. Would return anytime.
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, as always, though one little issue-breakfast at the iCafe vs Club Lounge which was resolved easily.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked King Jr Suite, got King 1 Bed IC Club Suite with club access.
How are the rooms?
125 sq m, so very large, well maintained suite. Comfortable bed. Spacious bathroom with huge tub (my wife asked if I could teach her how to swim in that,) guest bathroom. Separate living room. Both rooms have large flat screen TV's and plenty of additional seating.
How is the exec. lounge?
Great, as usual. Fabulous food though they didn't have any good Scotch.
Fabulous staff
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Upgrade
- Staff
- Location
- Great breakfast with egg made to order, sushi, dim sum, salad bar, and just about anything you want, at the iCafe. (We never have eaten breakfast at the Club Lounge, but more on that below.)
- Huge pool
- Very fast internet and my VPN works well here.
Not so good:
-Well, we always have had breakfast included at the iCafe, but today the "captain" said it's not included, then another said it was, then the server brought a bill. Talked with the front desk staff, and first the staff member said not included, then the manager got involved and explained that they changed to Club Lounge BK only unless the rate included BK, but he made an exception based upon our previous stay pattern and RA status. So, next time may have to considered something different.
Value for CNY or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Excellent value during the less busy season before Chinese New Year, though it looks like they will get really busy tomorrow. Would return anytime.
Feb 20, 2015, 8:56 am
#44
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Programs: IHG Royal Ambassador
Posts: 824
InterContinental Hong Kong
InterContinental HongKong
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes! Fantastic!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a Superior Harbour View Room, received Patio Junior Suite.
I stayed on Chinese New Year Fireworks Day. I believe this room is the best place to see the fireworks show on Victoria Harbour.
#Please be aware Pario Rooms are not included standard upgrade policy. Usually they require 2000HKD extra charge. I believe this is exceptional case due to high occupancy.
How are the rooms?
Great...! 50sqm Harbour View Room with 14.7sqm patio.
How is the Club Lounge?
Yes, granted. Fantastic a la carte breakfast selections, Super friendly and helpful staff. Superb as always.
How was the mini-bar?
Great Selection of beverages as always.
What was your welcome gift?
Bottle of red wine, Chocolate box, Chinese tea box, and Chinese New Year Special Sweets Assortment. One of the best welcome gift in my whole of experiences. (Another one is the Paris Le Grand.)
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes, Replenished every night.
What was good and what was bad?
Everything are fantastic!
Value for $ or Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, Sure!
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Platinum Royal Ambassador
Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes! Fantastic!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a Superior Harbour View Room, received Patio Junior Suite.
I stayed on Chinese New Year Fireworks Day. I believe this room is the best place to see the fireworks show on Victoria Harbour.
#Please be aware Pario Rooms are not included standard upgrade policy. Usually they require 2000HKD extra charge. I believe this is exceptional case due to high occupancy.
How are the rooms?
Great...! 50sqm Harbour View Room with 14.7sqm patio.
How is the Club Lounge?
Yes, granted. Fantastic a la carte breakfast selections, Super friendly and helpful staff. Superb as always.
How was the mini-bar?
Great Selection of beverages as always.
What was your welcome gift?
Bottle of red wine, Chocolate box, Chinese tea box, and Chinese New Year Special Sweets Assortment. One of the best welcome gift in my whole of experiences. (Another one is the Paris Le Grand.)
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes, Replenished every night.
What was good and what was bad?
Everything are fantastic!
Value for $ or Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, Sure!
Last edited by Raynyan; Jul 18, 2015 at 2:59 am