The Algonquin Hotel

The people working here are nice, and it's close to the waterfront, but check before booking because some rooms share a washroom and shower. The whole building reeks of smoke despite being non-smoking. Gross.

When we got home, my boyfriend found a $100 charge on the card we'd used to reserve, even though we paid for the room with another card. He called to ask about it and was told they'd found an ashtray and the room smelled of smoke, though none of us smoke. I made the booking and had chosen a nonsmoking room. The woman he spoke with said the old building was nonsmoking and that the cleaner had photographed the ashtray, but she couldn't provide the picture because she was “on vacation.” I've seen other reviews, buried under fake ones, saying these extra charges are common. They WILL scam you if you stay here. The hostel, not a hotel, was dirty, the beds were unbearably uncomfortable, and the other guests were less than savory. The person checking us in was so drunk we could smell liquor on him. I also believe most of the reviews are fake, paid for by the proprietors to make the place seem legitimate. I wish I could give less than one star.

The sleeping arrangements really let the place down. It wasn't disabled-friendly, smelled of smoke, and had uneven steps over multiple flights. The bathroom was horrible, the shower was odd, the microwave didn't work, towels weren't white anymore, the floor was sticky, and the coffee machine couldn't reach the plug. I could hear another guest's TV all night. The staff were really nice, though, and the bar was great, with a pool table and other things.

The owner is extremely kind and accommodating, takes real pride in this Historic property, and keeps the common areas beautiful and clean. Front desk staff were always smiling and helpful, especially with local information for people new to the area. The location is convenient, and the rooms are comfortable, but they need updating. The mattress in my room should be replaced as a top priority. The updated common areas show what could be done.