Ocean Surfers Paradise - GCLR

After our three-night stay at Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise from Feb 12 to Feb 15, I found an unauthorized $792.80 AUD charge on my credit card on Feb 20, after I got home. There'd been no notice or explanation. When I asked by email, the hotel said it was for "TV damage." I want the full $792.80 AUD refunded. We used the TV on Feb 12 and 13 and it worked perfectly. We were out all day on the 14th and didn't turn it on before checking out on the 15th. It was in perfect condition when we left. The only evidence they sent was a single photo of a damaged screen. It had no timestamp and no context showing it was from my room. They also haven't provided an official receipt or invoice for replacing the TV. Charging my card without contacting me about the alleged damage or getting my consent is appalling and, in my view, a blatant violation of consumer rights. I've prepared to dispute the charge with my card issuer and will escalate this to Fair Trading Queensland. Potential guests, beware of what I see as arbitrary charging practices and a lack of integrity.

We booked because of the indoor and outdoor pools, and they were fabulous. The staff were friendly and accommodating. Our room was clean, modern, and so quiet we couldn't hear other guests. The beach is right across the road. We'll definitely return.

Everything else about the stay was lovely: the room was clean, the bed comfortable, and the view from my room beautiful to wake up to. Check-in was the one bad part. I honestly couldn't tell whether there was a queue, so I stepped forward and the receptionist spoke to me in an unfriendly way, saying there was a line. It happened twice. After someone left, I stepped up again, and he said he wasn't finished and I needed to wait. Fair enough, but he could have said it much more calmly and kindly. I wasn't sure where to stand, and it didn't feel good to be spoken to like that.

The hotel upgraded our suite to a sea view, so we could see the water from the hall and balcony. There was plenty of space for our family of four, with two bedrooms, a large hall, and a kitchen and dining area. Having a gym and pool made it a good place to escape the outdoor heat. When we wanted sun, sand, and sea, the beach was just across the street. There's also a nice cafe to relax in. Excellent place to stay.