Mont Hermon by HX

The accommodation, cleanliness, and location were decent to good, but the reception staff were awful. One seemed unwilling to work and took his time doing check-in with us outside, looking like he loved every minute of it. He was slow, confused, and completely unsympathetic. The other was worse, replying sarcastically out of nowhere, “If you don’t push the door, it won’t open, right?” When we answered, he asked if we couldn’t read. For someone working with the public, I expect basic politeness and enough emotional maturity not to bring personal frustrations into the job. Guests shouldn’t have to deal with someone’s unresolved problems when they arrive. Management should reconsider who they hire and give the job to people who actually want to work. Other travelers may want to think about what kind of service they’re willing to accept.

The flat’s staff are wonderful, so attentive and welcoming. I’m very grateful! There’s also a really pleasant restaurant with good options, and a cheerful, friendly, attentive manager.

The restaurant is spectacular, and everyone was very attentive. A 10 out of 10.

A couple of the few positives were the polite, attentive receptionists and the parking valets. Beyond that, here are reasons I wouldn’t stay here. Air circulation wasn’t good, at least in the apartments facing Bela Cintra. Internet is by cable, so you have to buy and set up your own equipment if you want Wi-Fi. There’s only one cable TV connection, in the bedroom, with a basic to intermediate package that lacks most channels. You can’t upgrade the package, add another connection, or move it to the living room. Cleaning costs extra and is done by an outside company twice a week. If you’re a light sleeper, you won’t get a quiet night: the bars on the street and the women working there mean you hear loud laughter and arguments over the spot. The worst part for me was going three days without hot water. Reception said the boiler had a problem. It started Saturday and wasn’t fixed until Tuesday, and there was no manager or maintenance staff from Saturday afternoon until Monday morning. They make it clear that this is a lodging service, but in practice it doesn’t feel like one. I didn’t know the city and, based on recommendations, thought a flat fairly close to the metro would be the best choice. My advice: don’t sign a long six-month contract like I did. Keep it to two months at most.