S Hotel Bahrain

The receptionist gave me the biggest room without even asking ❤️, and breakfast was good for 3 BD. The location is great, but it didn’t feel family friendly. I didn’t like seeing their alcohol collection promoted on the same menu as regular food. The toilet seat was uncomfortable and too low.

The room smelled strongly of curry or spicy food, and the odor stuck to our clothes. After how we were treated, we were exhausted and just wanted to see the room before deciding whether to stay. We then went back down and asked to cancel. I don’t usually complain, but this was the worst hotel in Bahrain for us. I booked because the hotel was close to the mall and other Bahrain attractions, and brought my wife for the night. Our 30-year-old son was coming up for just a few minutes before leaving to meet friends. My wife gave reception the reservation number and they found the booking. I had to try several times to pay because their machine wouldn’t take Amex; another machine worked. It seemed they didn’t want Amex payments. Once we had the keys and were heading to the elevator, the receptionist said our son couldn’t come to the room unless we paid for him. We explained he’d only be there briefly, but she said it wasn’t allowed and, when we asked for her supervisor, rudely insisted he couldn’t go up even for a minute. The manager refused to speak with us and said it was policy. I’ve stayed in at least 200 hotels around the world and in Bahrain, and have never been treated this badly, especially in Bahrain, known for its high customer service. We arrived one day before Valentine’s Day and paid three times the regular price. Save your money and go somewhere that treats you much better.

The sheets smelled unpleasant, the furniture was old, and service fell below standard. The hotel is overpriced for the quality and service, and staff should be more welcoming and at least greet guests with a smile. I’ve stayed in many hotels, but this was by far my worst experience and most disappointing stay.

The recreational area was the standout for me. Two good bars and an excellent shisha lounge give it a lively, relaxed feel that’s much better than the rest of the hotel, and are reason enough to return. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, clean, and full of light, with excellent views of the city’s upcoming Marina extension. The location works well too, close to downtown but far enough away for peace and quiet during the business day. It’s a pleasant hotel, though the experience is decent rather than outstanding. You get roughly what was promised, without the extra polish or consistency I’d expect from a solid full four star property so near Bahrain’s city centre. There are clear strengths and some missed opportunities, but the recreational offering could bring me back.