One of the best hotel experiences I've had anywhere!…read more
Pros:
Great Location: Centrally located near lots of bars, restaurants, shops, a currency exchange, a casino, public pools, and more.
Exceptional Service:
Rodrigo at the front desk provided early check-in, local recommendations, and helpful insights. He allowed me to check in several hours early because my room was ready. He also took the time to explain some of the must see sights on the island. I was especially pleased when he shared with me that there is more than one hot spring on the island because the one that I initially planned to go to is closed. This was the one thing I really wanted to do and his recommendation helped make my trip that much more satisfying.
Hugo, the bellman, assisted with unloading and transporting my luggage and provided a thorough room walkthrough. I appreciate his knowledge and his thoroughness in explaining all of the room amenities an offerings.
Housekeeping does an excellent job of straightening of cleaning and straightening up the room; organizing items to maximize space without moving them too much or misplacing them.
The bar/restaurant staff are welcoming and attentive but give you the space to enjoy your meal.
The valet puts a cold bottle of water in your cup holder before delivering your car to you.
Room Amenities:
The room was slightly dusty but otherwise very clean and well kept.
Complimentary daily bottled water and welcome snacks provided.. There's also a Nespresso machine and electric tea kettle in the room, as well as bags of local tea and a few coffee pods, which are all replaced daily.
There are multiple USB outlets, ample luggage space, and lots of hangers in the room. For convenience, the 230 volt plugs are situated on the walls near the floor.
Strong steamer iron. One of the best I've used. Barely needed to make contact with my clothes to get the wrinkles out.
Bathroom & Shower:
The shower has 'rain shower' as well as handheld wand options, so you don't have to do the 'rotisserie chicken thing' to rinse off. Good water pressure too....plus it gets nice and hot.
The washcloths and towels are thick, heavy, absorbent, and the perfect amount of coarseness.
Cozy bathrobes and slippers are provided.
Dining:
Excellent breakfast buffet offering a delightful variety of local fruits, smoked salmon, meats, cheeses, pastries, fresh fruit and vegetables, fresh squeezed orange juice, a local take on a few breakfast staples and, my personal favorite, DIY mimosas.
Afternoon tea (2:30-6:00 p.m.) was a lovely spread of scones, croissants, pastries and tea sandwiches on Portuguese (English-style) muffin. I also appreciated how they honored my request of no pork. Some of the pastries were just a tiny bit overbaked, but everything was still very good. For €15, you really must try it.
The staff sometimes offers complimentary treats from the kitchen while you're waiting for your meal.
Other Amenities:
Small but functional fitness center and tranquil, heated indoor pool.
Efficient elevators. They arrive quickly, and I don't think I shared a single elevator the entire time I was there.
Turn-down service (an unexpected surprise!).
Valet places a cold water bottle in your car before delivery.
Cons:
Parking: Street parking is limited; valet is $14/day (however, they will bring you your car as many times as you like it no extra charge). There is also a parking garage nearby. Look for the structure that looks like an underground tunnel.
Security Concerns: No peepholes, single door lock, and front desk verbally announces room number. Before giving me my key, the front desk staff verbally shared what room I would be in. That is a potential safety issue and I discreetly let them know that in the interest of safety it's probably not a good idea to do that, especially for solo female traveler. They were very apologetic and understanding. However, not long after that discussion, I heard them do the same thing to another female traveler who was checking in.
The "complimentary" welcome drink voucher can only be used when you purchase a meal at the hotel restaurant
Room Features: No fridge, microwave, bathroom fan, or iron (available on request). Limited bathroom counter space and hooks.
Noise Levels: Occasional sounds from neighboring rooms. I could hear someone's cell phone ringing in one room. In another room I heard a guest sneezing repeatedly. Fortunately, I did not hear anything in terms of noise from above me. There's also a lot of loud thumping and bumping if housekeeping is cleaning rooms on either side of you.
On Friday nights, the bars across the water sometimes have live music that will go until 2:00 or 3:00 in the morning. While it's not super loud, you're still able to hear it a little bit with the balcony door closed. Nothing a little white noise or turning on the TV can't fix though. Keep these things in mind if you are a light sleeper or otherwise sensitive to noise.
