Went here on opening weekend, Saturday September 7th 2024. Arrived early in the morning to ensure there was parking and less traffic. There was plenty of outdoor and indoor spaces available. Unfortunately parking is paid. It is supposed to be free for the first hour if you have the Royalmount mobile app but this is not yet in operation. We stayed for a little over an hour and paid $5. Although easily accessible from the metro, for those coming off the island, the paid parking is a deterrent. Really hope they can reconsider this or offer at least 2 hours of free parking. We found the indoor parking to be confusing, not very visible signage and poor lighting. The lights are motion activated so many areas are dim.
Inside the elavator leading up to the mall, we noticed unfortunate cracks and breaks in the mirror panels. Probably due to poor installation - this was present in 2 different elavors we used. Many areas of the mall have cracked tiles, chipped or peeling paint like the job was not done well.
Right now only about half the stores are open - the overall layout and style of the mall is modern, fresh, lots of natural light and easy layout to navigate. However if you are looking for a specific store on the map, this is displayed on a screen that constantly rotates images, you cannot view the map for more than a few seconds. They should have a static or printed map. Restrooms are also not clearly labelled, sometimes hidden in a long corridor. Note that there are many washrooms, some are segregated and others are mix for both genders. Take your pick accordingly.
The mixed washroom is beautiful and spacious - love the artwork, lounge area and spacious stalls.
We wanted to eat in the food court area named "Foufou" which has many different restaurants however there was signage indicating some were not open until the evening when they are supposed to be open for lunch. As this place is new, expect some kinks before everything is running smoothly. The food court area is beautiful, very different compared to other major malls. There is also an outdoor terrace and multiple restaurants planned for the bottom floor, to be open in the coming year.
Compared to other luxury malls across the world, I found the Royalmount to be lacking some glitz and glam. The choice of flooring for example and construction material - it kind of looks basic.
I am not sure how successful this place will be - hoping to be a fun spot to visit once more attractions are open but the acsessibility issue and parking are big turn offs for me. read more