Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

The views from every floor are just spectacular, and the daily service and hospitality were good. I was disappointed there were no USB ports, though reception lent me a USB wall charger port when I asked. The pillows were hard and uncomfortable, with no give at all. The pool was cold and needed cleaning, and the pool area is showing signs of desperate need for a refurb.

The pool areas weren’t kept clean during our four days. Bird droppings and fallen palm branches were left scattered around, which took away from enjoying the outdoor facilities. Regular cleaning would make a real difference. Breakfast was also pretty average, with the same limited selection each morning. It was enough, but nothing stood out, and some variety or fresh options would have improved it. The accommodation covered the basics, but the repetitive food and untidy pool surroundings left a lot to be desired.

The room was fairly spacious, but that was about the only positive. The hotel is a long walk from the night market and lagoon, where most restaurants are. We had to walk about 15 minutes in the rain, and there are similarly priced hotels closer to those spots. It didn’t feel worth the price or anywhere near four-star quality. Service was poor. Our room wasn’t cleaned even though we hadn’t put out the “do not disturb” tag. When we reported it, staff seemed tired and confused. There was no housekeeper working at 7pm, so we were given bathing towels and the bin bags were changed instead. Requests also went unanswered: we waited 20 minutes for towels after the receptionist said they’d bring some, then had to call again. The door tag saying “I’m going easier on earth” was confusing. They need separate “do not disturb” and “please clean my room” tags. The walls are thin enough to hear people in the next room making out. The aircon only has on and off, with no temperature adjustment. The TV was dodgy too: the monitor and remote didn’t match, and after turning it on once we couldn’t turn it off or change channels, and couldn’t get it on again afterward.

Everything was pretty average, though the amenities were fine. The restaurant menu left in the room showed lots of choices, but when I called, about half weren’t actually available. I’d have gone out to eat if I hadn’t already returned from a walk, so that was a bit disappointing. The hotel feels aged compared with others. That might be charming if the rooms were better maintained, with fewer scuff marks and warmer lighting. I’d stay again if I had to.