Lilac City Motor Inn

I booked online and paid in late December. The site was still open on my phone when a red message appeared saying no bookings were available. I assumed the payment would be reversed, as I'd never had a problem booking that way before, but a few days later I saw the charge was still there. I called the motel and was told twice that the matter would be referred to accounts, but heard nothing. I then contacted my bank and sent an email, followed by another a few weeks later. I don't know if this was a system fault or fraud, but with no response from the motel, it's hard to reach any other conclusion. They don't seem to care about their reputation or acting responsibly and ethically. I stayed there about four years ago; the room was basic, but I had no cleanliness complaints then. From the reviews, it seems like more could be done for a pet-friendly place. I've stayed at an excellent pet-friendly motel in Bathurst, so it can be done with competent management.

The air conditioning didn't work effectively, which made a summer stay even harder. I spent the night itching severely all over and barely slept, especially stressful with a long drive to Melbourne the next day. The mattress didn't feel properly cleaned, and many guests bring pets that sleep on the beds. It's clearly very pet-friendly, but that may not suit people with allergies or sensitivities. The hotel should say so clearly in its advertising and mention possible allergy concerns, so guests can judge whether it's right for them. I won't return.

Razi at reception was cheerful, kind and very helpful. We took four spacious rooms, all good apart from the door in room 28, and having an extra bed in each room worked well for our four children, aged one to ten. We all slept well, and the kids and adults enjoyed the ample open space. Breakfast was included and we enjoyed it, though the portions were a little less than expected and only just sufficient. It would be nice to add something like pancakes with chocolate or honey, and provide at least a litre of water per person. It was a good experience overall.

I didn't feel safe enough to stay and left. The ground floor lock was flimsy, and ashtrays on the plastic outdoor table were overflowing. The room was dingy, damp and unclean, and the staff were rude when I arrived and could use basic lessons in greeting guests. As a woman travelling alone, I felt so unsafe that I'd rather have stayed with the grooms during a horse-riding weekend. I wouldn't let my animals stay there. Disgusting.