SOALTEE HOTEL by Trip Inn Frankfurt Messe

The single room was clean and comfortable, and the receptionist was very polite. The restaurant waiters were super friendly. There’s a great view from the sauna and balcony, and the bus station is nearby.

We booked through Trip thinking this was the hotel next to the Messe, then realized within about 40 minutes that we’d picked the wrong one. We requested cancellation through Trip and called the hotel, but they hung up a couple of times. They answered when we called from an internet line that didn’t show our number, though that may have been a coincidence. They refused to cancel under their policy even though we’d booked less than half an hour earlier, offering only a 10% refund on a four-night stay. We ended up with a big taxi bill, taking a cab to the Messe every day. As a business owner, I think they should be embarrassed to refuse a cancellation made online within the same hour.

I had a horrible stay and wouldn’t recommend this hotel to foreigners visiting or living in Germany. Responses were slow, and the service felt very unprofessional. Room service came in without permission more than twice, even with the Do Not Disturb sign out or when I hadn’t heard their knock while asleep. Once, they walked in while I was changing. Other times, they stayed awkwardly in my room doing things I hadn’t asked for. I stepped out for a few minutes to ask the front desk something, and when I returned, someone was touching and moving my belongings. The receptionists were rude and unwelcoming, and I avoided speaking with them unless I had to. Management added to the frustration. They accused me of not paying for something I hadn’t done and threatened further action unless I provided a valid card. I explained my disappointment with how disorganized they were and corrected them. They finally stopped contacting me after investigating the situation more carefully, which they should have done before making assumptions. It also seemed suspicious that they asked for a credit card without gathering more evidence. I stayed longer than planned only because my circumstances left me no other choice at the time. I don’t plan to return, and hope this helps others decide whether to book.

Late check-in went smoothly, and parking is available, though the hotel is often full, so plan your time. The reception staff speak more than two languages, and the restaurant had a positive atmosphere. At least three experienced staff members were circulating to make sure guests were okay. I saw a business room and internet room in the basement, plus fitness and spa facilities on the 12th floor. The hotel is very warm. Temperatures were really low while I was there, but the rooms had good heating. My room had a balcony, which is great for us smokers who want a cup of coffee without going downstairs.