Hampton by Hilton Dortmund Phoenix See

Staff were friendly, and the hotel was comfortable and clean. There was a good range at breakfast. If you’re travelling by car, the parking garage is right across the street, so I’d recommend it.

The strangest part of my stay was watching guests marvel at opening doors with a key card, as if it were magic. At least ten people arrived without luggage, carrying whole wardrobes on hangers in their hands: suits, dresses, shirts and shoes swinging along like a tragic operetta chorus line. Maybe Hamptons suit people who are new to travelling, still impressed by plastic key cards and packing as if they’re fleeing a fire. Good for them, but I won’t be back. I booked because it was the only Hilton property in Dortmund. I was there for one night on business, which is about the only reason I can imagine going to Dortmund, unless you’re changing trains or have had a cruel twist of fate. I’ve stayed in plenty of Hiltons, but this was my first Hampton, and the first Hilton-branded hotel that felt cheap in a thoroughly uncharming way. The room upgrade for my Hilton Gold status was exactly the sort of room I’d hope to be upgraded out of: a shoebox with carpet, a kettle, and a sad packet of tea bags, with no amenities at all, not even a vanity kit. The sink was so tiny I felt I’d have to wash one finger at a time, like operating on a sparrow. The pillows were a comic pair, one puffed up like a parade balloon, the other flat and feeble as a hungry flatfish. The Gold perks were no bottled water in the room, and a scavenger hunt to find out I could claim a soft drink and a “snack”, but only by going down to the lobby myself. Nothing says valued elite guest like queuing at reception beside someone buying Pringles. Breakfast didn’t help. I had coffee and water. My wife tried some food and wasn’t impressed. The beige buffet won’t be in a Michelin guide unless they make one for beige buffets. Still, the place was clean and the staff were friendly. That’s it, and it’s the whole review Hampton’s marketing team seems to want.

It’s a pleasant hotel, clean and comfortable, with all the facilities you might need. The location is great too, close to the lake and with lots of restaurants around.

I was impressed by how helpful and friendly the staff were, especially Ira, whose warm manner made the stay better. The rooms were spotless, well kept, and comfortable. The hotel is by a beautiful lake, with lovely views and peaceful surroundings. Breakfast was a highlight too, with fresh fruit, pastries, and hot food to choose from. I had an outstanding stay at the Hampton by Hilton in Dortmund and would highly recommend it.