Hotel Hacienda

The staff were the highlight, friendly, helpful, and really sweet. The room was basic and everything looked aged. The floor seemed to have had its finish pulled up, but the sheets and towels were clean, and the bed and pillows were comfortable. We were on the railway side, and you could hear trains from around 5am. The hotel sits between a busy road and busy railway, though bars, restaurants, a park, and public transport are all within walking distance.

The friendly, welcoming staff and handy spot near public transport were the only real positives. The hotel didn't look like the photos, and though I'd expected road noise and a small room, the leaking sink and bathroom shelves coming apart were surprises. I didn't trust the shelves with my cosmetics. There was no real storage either, just two wall hooks. The room doors were ordinary interior doors with no soundproofing, so sounds from the hallway and other rooms carried right through. We stayed three nights, so we decided not to find another hotel. For a longer stay, I would have asked for a refund. At check-in they asked for a card to hold a 50 AUD deposit, saying it would be released within a week after checkout if we hadn't damaged any furniture. A week later I saw the money had actually been withdrawn. I have lots of travel expenses, so I'd been keeping an eye on that payment. I contacted the hotel, and they checked the charge and refunded it only after I wrote. I feel they might have kept the money if I hadn't checked my banking myself. It was a very unpleasant experience.

Alex was such a help when I arrived and realised I'd booked the room for a week later. It was entirely my mistake, and I'd made a non-refundable booking through a third party. After a breakdown and some Googling, I went back to apologise to Alex and ask about the options I'd found online. Alex spoke with the owner, who supported us through the process even though they were sick at home. They helped arrange somewhere for me to stay and process a refund. Such a blessing. I'm so grateful for their kindness in sorting out that hassle. The air conditioning was incredible, and the staff were amazing. The cleaners and behind-the-scenes crew deserve recognition too for their hard work. You can see the hotel's values in the staff, and I'd be happy to stay again. This place restored my faith in humanity.

Tidy rooms, friendly staff, and a nice little hotel. Redfern and Central train stations are both a short walk away, so it's easy to get around. I'd gladly stay again.