Novotel Florianópolis

We had a seaside room with a stunning view, and everything went smoothly. The service throughout the hotel was excellent, and we felt completely pampered. The stay was fantastic. Best bartender ever, Filipe knows his guests and just what they want ☺️❤️

The friendly, welcoming staff and wonderful breakfast buffet were real positives. The hotel is nicely located across from the bay, with lovely views and plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance. But I gave it 4 stars because the tap water in Florianópolis isn't drinkable and the hotel doesn't provide bottled water for free. When I asked, the front desk said guests were "recommended" to buy it. At $200 USD a night for a marketed 5-star hotel, I expect drinking water. I've traveled around the world and this was the first hotel where I've encountered that in a place with non-potable tap water. Providing it would be a small gesture that could improve guest satisfaction. The WiFi was also very weak and sometimes didn't work. I doubt I'll stay at this Novotel again. Most other hotels provide complimentary drinking water, so consider what's important to you before booking.

The only real downside was the WiFi, which was hit and miss. Otherwise, this was another Novotel, and Accor hotel, that didn't disappoint me. Large rooms, great facilities, a proper gym, a lovely pool, and probably the best hotel shower I've ever had: hot and powerful. You know how consistency can vary with big chains, but I've rarely been disappointed with Novotel or Accor.

I've stayed here three times before, so seeing the standard drop so much was especially disappointing. A place that used to feel polished and friendly now seems indifferent to the guest experience. Check-in set the tone: nobody explained the services, breakfast, amenities, or even basic logistics. That felt surprisingly unprofessional for a hotel in this category. The bigger issue was that our rooms weren't ready at the agreed check-in time. I'd booked 2 rooms. One was available 10 minutes after check-in time, after I complained; the other came 40 minutes after that. Guests plan around the promised time, and missing it is a basic failure that's not excusable at this price. In years of travel, I've never had anything similar happen. I was surprised that Novotel, such an esteemed hotel chain, failed to meet this basic commitment. As a returning guest, I'm particularly disappointed by the decline. I won't be back.