Swiss Chocolate Lausanne by Fassbind

The pillows were much too soft, and there weren’t enough hooks in the bathroom or by the sink. Still, we had spacious rooms, a very comfortable bed, a huge shower, and a mini fridge for small items. The location was great, with amenities right on the doorstep. Before we arrived, communication was easy and they responded quickly. The receptionists we met during our stay were all courteous and helpful, and luggage storage was always available.

The room was spacious and clean, with a nice patio overlooking the city, and the central location is handy for sightseeing. Lausanne felt sketchier than the other Swiss cities I visited, though. Check-in was the worst part: one guest was ahead of me, and it took 20-25 minutes to get them checked in. They were already there when I arrived, so the wait had started before I did. My own check-in took under three minutes. The room was dark even with every light on. They provided just one flimsy pillow, so I asked for another. The desk clerk said they’d get back to me, then called 15 minutes later to say there were no spares. I find it hard to believe a hotel with 60+ rooms has no extra pillow, and the clerk seemed lazy. I’d probably look elsewhere if I ever came back to Lausanne, which I doubt. Just an OK stay.

We paid around €300 a night for a “Business Quadruple Room” so our family could stay together. When we arrived at 8:00 PM with our two 6-year-old children, they said the room was full and made us split up into standard rooms. Those rooms were selling for €110 that same day, so it felt like we’d paid €300 for a much cheaper downgrade and they kept the difference. We were given a “take it or leave it” choice. We felt trapped and scammed. Avoid this place if you expect to get what you paid for.

There are plenty of nice places to visit nearby, and I loved my stay with my brother. The chocolate atmosphere was a big draw. They sell chocolate that was some of the best I’ve had, so you really need to get a choco bar or two while you’re staying.