Pallazzo Alfonso

The room smelled like something was rotting, both the carpet and the bed. We had to keep the window open because of the stench, even though there was a construction site right outside it. There was no response to our request to change rooms, and no staff at the hotel. I couldn't find a smoke detector either. How is that allowed? It's a 15-minute walk to the city centre.

Breakfast wasn't included, and there was no maid service during our stay apart from the rubbish being emptied. The tiny amount of shampoo they left ran out halfway through my first shower and wasn't replaced, so I was glad I'd brought my own. My room was a fourth-floor walk-up, which isn't suitable for elderly guests. I used airline miles to book, but wouldn't stay again unless the price were a bargain for the service and amenities.

The room itself was adorable, but the staff setup left me frustrated. Registration closes early, and we were lucky to arrive in time. Our room was on the fourth floor, with no elevator, so expect a climb. At check-in, we said we'd be out late and didn't want to wake up for breakfast, which ended at 9 am. There was a problem with our bill, and they called at 9 am to wake us because they wanted to close registration again. Then, at 12:02, while I was getting ready, a male housekeeper walked in without knocking. I thought it was my husband bringing the luggage downstairs, but it wasn't. I just wish the staffing matched the room.

Woaaw, our room was bigger than my apartment, with a lovely balcony full of greenery. There's a kitchen too, though we didn't use it. The bathroom was luscious, with a bath and Dornbracht tap. Everything is within walking distance of the centre. We'll book for longer next time.