I was going to rate the Halcyon Hotel two stars but, upon leaving after a one night stay, decided to upgrade my rating. Yes, the hotel is in a historically preserved building on a lovely quiet street across from the Royal Terrace Gardens but the amenities left me cold, literally. First off, no elevators. The manager/concierge told me they aren't allowed to change the building. I get that but then I had to walk to the 4th floor with luggage. (I know; it's a dirty job but someone's got to do it.) Second, electric outlets. My converter would not fit in any of the outlets around the bed. (There were two types.) Thank gaia for the shaving outlet in the bathroom so I could plug my phone in. When I awoke I had to plug the coffee water heater pot in the one outlet near the door that it fit - despite its location across the room on the mantle near some outlet that was completely useless. I was boiling water on the rug. Third, the hot water shower. There's a sign that says it's electric hot water so make sure the switch is on. The water was hot but had no force when coming out of the shower head. And if I touched any control in the shower it immediately went cold. There was a room heater which worked and the double bed was comfortable.
I had to leave at 8 am - which is when breakfast was served so the manager told me to come down at 7:45. That was very nice of him - and he was always very nice. Breakfast was ready and it was fabulous. Home cooked mushrooms, eggs, tomatoes, toast, cheese, fruit, butter, jam, tea - fit for a king! It is this reason that I upgraded my rating. The wait staff were lovely as well. No complaints about any of the people. The room just doesn't have modern conveniences. I go camping so I don't need them but I want them for a winter night in Scotland. I am really glad I only stayed one night. I paid 80 USD for the night through an online travel booking service.
PS: it's right around the corner from the Pink Triangle gay bars. read more