I have had the pleasure of staying at many Mandarin Oriental Hotels, and they consistently offer an unparalleled experience. Unfortunately, my stay at this particular hotel has been a glaring exception. The service, especially the concierge, has been very mediocre.
When I requested recommendations for authentic Italian restaurants--explicitly stating our preference for non-touristic spots and fine dining--the concierge lazily pushed the hotel's fine dining restaurant. Despite my clear request for something local and tasty, he continued to present a premade list and insisted on the hotel's offering. Reluctantly, we accepted, trusting his assurance of the food's quality. To our dismay, the meal was a disaster. The pasta was excessively salty, the food was mediocre, and the special sushi roll, priced at an outrageous $90, was below subpar. Frankly, better sushi can be found at a local food chain back home. This $300 meal was, without question, the worst I have ever experienced.
The following day, we faced another appalling ordeal at the pool. After waiting two hours for a waiter to take our order, we gave up. When the manager finally appeared, informing us the bar was closing, we asked for water. After another 30 minutes, the water never arrived. Deciding to return to our room, a waitress--who had been conspicuously absent--presented us with a check for water we never received. When questioned, she dismissively pointed at the counter and claimed, "We were about to bring it out to you."
Moreover, every meal at the hotel's restaurants has been an exercise in frustration. We have had to beg for a table, and once seated, beg for basic necessities like water. This constant pleading for attention and service is unacceptable.
Adding to the disappointment, the room we were given is significantly smaller than advertised. This deceptive practice only exacerbates our dissatisfaction.
This lack of attention and care has been a consistent theme throughout our stay. We have had to practically beg for basic services, something unheard of in any other five-star hotel. For the premium price paid per night, I expected nothing short of excellence. Instead, I have been met with incompetence and neglect, which has significantly marred my experience at Lake Como.
I am profoundly disappointed and dissatisfied. This experience has tarnished the reputation of a brand I once held in high regard.
The only reason I gave it 2 stars is because the view is exceptional, and the hotel is pretty. read more