Novotel Recife Marina

The explanation from Novotel changed my view of the hotel: they said the marina operation is run independently, with its own staff and rules. I’m keeping my original impression of the place itself, where the employees were cordial and the atmosphere was great. Still, Novotel should be careful about its marina partnership. Other customers could have the same idea I did and end up with a terrible experience if unprofessional partners damage the brand.

Having to go down to the desk several times just to politely ask for more coffee capsules was a real letdown, especially at a hotel charging so much during carnival. I’d thought I liked the place, but the food served by the pool was poor quality too. Such a pity.

I wasn’t a hotel guest, but met someone staying there for a meeting at the restaurant. The burger and fries we ordered were good, and so was the service. The reception staff were friendly and helpful, called a taxi when I asked, and spoke English. The place looks luxurious, tidy, professional, and lively.

The room was lovely, and the facilities looked good: an inviting reception, nice dining room and breakfast views, a beautiful pool, and probably the best hotel gym we’ve seen. We had a junior suite for a week on our honeymoon, though, and basic requests were a struggle. Staff seemed annoyed when we asked for things, toiletries and soap weren’t replaced, and our robes weren’t washed. We were also charged for replacement coffee capsules, which I’d never come across at a hotel. The quiet location is pleasant, but there’s nothing nearby, so we needed taxis or Ubers almost everywhere. In the room, the air conditioning was a bit loud and there was no permanent way to turn it off. We were beneath the pool, and each night we heard chairs and tables being moved, which made it hard to sleep. Maybe we’re judging it a little harshly because it was our honeymoon, but we wouldn’t choose to stay here again. There’s nothing outright wrong with the place, we’d just hoped for more.