ibis Pau Lescar

The rooms were clean and quiet, so I slept well, and the receptionist was friendly. The location was okay, on the edge of town near a business area. There wasn't a restaurant open on Friday evening, but several are nearby. Breakfast wasn't up to the usual top quality. Just normal IBIS standard.

There was no goodwill gesture offered, not even complimentary breakfast, and I was told they couldn't help because of internal politics. I gave them three chances to make some kind of gesture, but they refused. An ibis beside a car dealership isn't the same as a Novotel with a swimming pool and park views. I was originally booked at the sister hotel, the Novotel, but on arrival day they called to say its air conditioning was broken and they had no fans. These things happen, and we understood. They booked us into the ibis instead, but I wasn't impressed at all. Update after the hotel owner's reply: I've read your response and stand by what I said. I was booked at an Accor hotel, and you are an Accor hotel, but you had no interest in helping me.

Parking is free, with a large shopping area around the corner and a McDonald's next door. The location is a bit out of the way, but with a car it's a short drive into central Pau in the evening. The rooms feel fresh, and the beds are firm, just as I prefer them. Breakfast was good, varied, and well looked after. I had dinner in the restaurant on arrival and it was a good meal overall. A good hotel for a few nights.

I've stayed here at least once a year for over 20 years, through several remodels and updates. What has stayed the same is how friendly and efficient the staff are. They're always helpful and go well beyond what's normally expected of hotel staff. The place is consistently clean, the buffet breakfasts are tasty and plentiful, and the rooms are accommodating. If I had to sum up Ibis Hotels in one word, it'd be consistency.