Hampton By Hilton Locarno

I couldn’t properly sleep or relax because there’s no soundproofing. Doors kept slamming, and it felt like being in a war zone. Adding silencers or felt pads to the doors would help. I don’t want to pay for a bad night’s sleep, even though the hotel itself is nice, modern, well equipped, and has great housekeeping. I appreciated being allowed to check in early, and the woman at the front desk was very nice. The washer and dryer and small fitness center were useful too. Breakfast was a letdown: the hot food was cold, and by 9 a.m. the scrambled eggs were gone. They need to manage breakfast better. The hotel is good, but guest comfort needs attention.

The bed was comfortable, and it’s a relief to find one in Europe that isn’t hard as plywood. The room was a little small but fine, and the staff were great. There were plenty of breakfast choices. Parking costs 15 euros in the same lot as Migros. The gym is what you’d expect at a typical hotel.

The breakfast staff deserve credit for clearing tables quickly when it gets busy and keeping the buffet full. This is a newer budget hotel, so the furnishings and trim are basic, though they’re still in mint condition. It’s in a non-touristy part of town, but centrally placed for locals, and the free public transit ticket makes it easier to explore. Chipped spots in the paint are already showing, so keeping the rooms in good shape may be a challenge for the hotel’s operations team.

Breakfast is included, with lots to choose from, and I especially liked the vegetables. The staff were all friendly and helpful. The hotel is comfortable and well located, just a three-minute walk from the bus stop. A local transit card comes with the room.