Courtyard by Marriott Banja Luka

I couldn't sleep because loud folk music from the hotel’s sky bar carried on late into the night, even on a workday. When we asked for help, the staff wouldn't move us to a lower floor and didn't even answer the phone. The whole response felt completely unprofessional and showed no respect for guests. It was a very unpleasant stay, and I'll never come back. If you care about sleep and peace, avoid this hotel. I don't recommend it to anyone.

We loved this hotel when we last stayed two years ago, but this week's visit was the complete opposite. Strong pina colada air freshener in all the common areas, including the hallways, was extremely unpleasant. Our second floor room also smelled badly of exhaust and wood smoke and had no ventilation. It left me with a sore throat and very red eyes. We called the front desk several times, but they didn't offer another room, perhaps because none was available. The dining setup has changed too. The hotel seems to be a dedicated conference center now, and the dining room is reserved for attendees. Paying guests are sent to the bar and lounge, which felt uncomfortable and made us feel like “2nd class guests.” Motion sensor sliding glass doors in the dining area open every minute or so to the smoking section, letting all that toxic smoke into the lungs of guests trying to have a “smoke free” dinner. In that sense, this is not a “non smoking” hotel. Marriott, you can do better. We won't repeat this experience.

We had one of the hotel's three balcony rooms, room 601, with a fairly roomy balcony and a nice view. The room was clean and modern, the bed was good, everything worked, and it stayed quiet. The location is central and convenient, so we walked to all the attractions, including the fortress. Staff were pleasant and helpful. Breakfast was very good, though not especially memorable. A very good one-night stay.

The sensor controlled lights are a nuisance at night. A bathroom trip sets them on, and they stay lit for five minutes with no way to switch them off.