Brand new hotel, but the basics missed the mark
Another work trip, another destination. This time, just one night in Florence, South Carolina.
I usually love the Aloft brand. I've stayed at other Aloft properties, including Atlanta and Nashville, and I like the modern design, open workspaces and hard-surface flooring instead of wall-to-wall carpet. So when I saw this was a newer property, I expected a solid stay.
Unfortunately, this one disappointed me.
Check-in was fine, and I appreciated the small welcome bag with bottled water and Sun Chips. I was also assigned a spacious double-queen suite. On first impression, the room looked great--modern, colorful and exactly what I expect from Aloft.
Then I started looking closer.
The room simply wasn't clean. There was visible dirt and debris on the floors, carpet and sofa. With all those beautiful hard-surface floors Aloft uses, cleanliness becomes even more noticeable. There was also only one trash can that I could find, in the bathroom, and none near the desk or living area.
The bathroom brought more issues. The shower's water pressure was extremely weak--getting my hair thoroughly wet took forever--and the body wash dispenser was empty. When you're staying one night on a work trip, these are precisely the little things you shouldn't have to discover after you've unpacked.
I was also surprised by the parking charge. This is an open surface lot with no gate, guard or other obvious added security, so I struggled to see the value behind charging guests separately to park there.
That's what made the stay frustrating. The property itself has plenty going for it. It's new, attractive and contemporary. The suite was spacious, and I like Aloft's design and functionality. But a beautiful new hotel still needs to nail the basics: a clean room, stocked bathroom and a good shower.
I shouldn't need to conduct a room inspection before unpacking. But if you're staying here, I recommend doing exactly that. Check the floors and furniture, make sure the shower dispensers are stocked, and test the water pressure before settling in.
I wanted to love this Aloft. Based on my experience, I wouldn't choose this particular property again.
Life is too short not to sleep well, eat well or travel well. Get out there and find your next destination.
My Yelp rating: 2 stars. The physical property earns more, but cleanliness and basic room readiness are fundamental hotel standards. read more