Hotel Indigo Dali Erhai, An Ihg Hotel

After checking in at Hotel Indigo Dali Erhai tonight, my sister slipped in a large pile of vomit right outside the elevator when we got out around 9:25 pm. It looked like it had been there for at least an hour, which points to a serious problem with the hotel's inspection and cleaning. The manager on duty, whose last name was Yang, first suggested washing the vomit-covered clothes so they could be worn again. That was completely unacceptable for basic hygiene and guest safety.

We really enjoyed the restaurant, especially the mushroom hotpot, which I understand is a Yunnan specialty. The hotel is about a 20-minute taxi ride from the airport, and around 30 minutes from the ancient town of Dali and the mountain range with its temples and convents. It has a lovely lounge, plus a beautiful gym and swimming pool overlooking Erhai Lake. We came to Dali in August for my mother's 85th birthday and to escape the summer heat. I'd heard the climate there was excellent all year, and the stay went beyond what we expected. Everyone we met, from reception and concierge to the restaurant, gym and housekeeping teams, was super nice. I wish I could name them, and maybe staff could wear name badges. Our room had a wonderful view across Erhai Lake. Waking up to that panorama each morning brought to mind being on an ocean cruise. Since our flight landed around 7 am, the hotel let us into the room before noon. We just went for breakfast while Housekeeping got it ready. On her birthday, my mother received a complimentary cake, and we found pretty rose petals and towel arrangements on the bed, like you might see on an ocean cruise. There were other surprises too, but I'll keep those to myself so future guests don't come with unrealistic expectations.

This was easily the worst hotel experience I've had. I told the woman who called from the hotel the day before what we needed and when we'd arrive, but they still couldn't provide the rooms we asked for. Then the man at reception lied about whether a room was available. They need to improve their staff training.

Lots of ways to relax here, and the view is good too. 👍