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Beware of Hidden Fees: A Shocking Experience at a “5-Star” Hotel

Imagine checking out of a supposedly luxurious hotel, only to find unexpected charges on your credit card. This happened to me, and it left me feeling betrayed and frustrated.

The experience began with a promise of an invoice being sent to me after checking out. I naively trusted that a 5-star establishment wouldn’t resort to sneaky tactics. But, my trust was shattered when I saw the extra charges.

I contacted Trip.com to request the promised invoice, only to discover the extra charges were for a so-called “discussionary charge of tips.” This charge was never mentioned upfront, and when I challenged it, I was told it was non-refundable. I was outraged that a 5-star hotel would force me to pay for something I didn’t know about.

The hotel’s deception didn’t end there. The service was atrocious. We ordered room service and waited an hour for our food, only to be told there was a delay. Then, we waited another hour for someone to remove our plates.

This experience left me feeling disillusioned with the idea of a 5-star hotel. Transparency and honest service are essential, and this hotel failed on both counts.

Beyond the 5 Stars: A Hidden Gem in London

It’s not always about the stars. Sometimes, it’s about the heart. My recent stay at the Holiday Inn Sutton was a true testament to this. While it might not boast 5-star luxury, it exceeded expectations in other ways.

Cleanliness is paramount, and this hotel delivered on that promise. But what truly made the difference was the exceptional staff. From the restaurant to the front desk and housekeeping, every single person went above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay.

The friendly atmosphere and attention to detail created a warm and welcoming environment. It’s the little things that make a difference, and the staff at Holiday Inn Sutton truly understood this.

I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this hotel. If you’re looking for a clean, comfortable, and welcoming place to stay in London, this is it.

Service with a Smile: An Unforgettable Stay

Sometimes, the best experiences are those that surprise you. My stay at [Hotel name] was one of those.

From the moment I contacted Tarek at the front desk, I was blown away by his kindness and helpfulness. He went out of his way to ensure our early arrival was as smooth as possible, and his follow-up call after check-in confirmed his dedication to guest satisfaction.

The hotel itself was a delight. The rooms were clean and spacious, and the views from the higher floors were breathtaking. The bar/restaurant provided a welcoming atmosphere for both breakfast and dinner, and the food was delicious.

The only downside was the lack of a business center. However, Tarek immediately offered to print our documents, further demonstrating the exceptional service provided by this hotel.

We were truly impressed with [Hotel name] and will definitely be returning in the future. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel valued and cared for, and that’s invaluable.

A Clean and Modern Hotel with a Few Quirks

While [Hotel Name] offers a clean and modern environment, it’s not without its drawbacks.

The rooms are comfortable and well-maintained, but lacking in space, especially if you’re staying for more than a couple of days. The tiny closets and lack of drawer space can make packing and unpacking a challenge.

The breakfast is just okay, with a limited selection of fresh fruit and mediocre hot breakfast options.

The reception staff was marginally helpful, and no one offered assistance with our luggage. Getting a taxi to the airport can be problematic due to the bus stops in front of the hotel.

Overall, [Hotel name] is a decent choice if you’re looking for a clean and modern hotel, but it’s not without its flaws.

A Simple Stay with Exceptional Service

Sometimes, simplicity is key. That’s what I found at Zedwell.

This hub hotel offers basic but comfortable rooms in a fantastic central London location. The beds are incredibly comfortable, and the lack of distractions in the room ensured a peaceful sleep.

The absence of breakfast options wasn’t a problem for us, as there’s a Tesco Express nearby. We appreciated the 24-hour cafe and bar next door as well.

But the true highlight of our stay was the exceptional service we received from a member of the reception team. His thoughtfulness and willingness to help made a lasting impression.

If you’re looking for a simple and comfortable hotel in a great location, Zedwell is worth considering. And don’t forget to thank the reception team for their outstanding service.

Reference photo

Olivia Mitchell
Olivia Mitchellhttps://londongreens.org/
Olivia Mitchell is a travel writer who enjoys uncovering London’s best-kept secrets. From quaint cafes and unique boutiques to lesser-known museums, Olivia’s articles provide readers with a fresh perspective on London’s diverse offerings. Her approachable writing style and keen eye for detail make her content engaging and informative for all types of travelers.

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