Hotel The Originals du Grand Monarque

The concierge and staff were outstandingly professional, and the location is excellent. The hotel is dated, but aside from the usual amenities there were no other issues. Still, my room had bedbugs, and the bed needs to be checked. I usually sleep on top of the covers in hotels for this reason. This time I used them because the sheets looked clean and bright, and felt soft and sanitized. It pains me to say it, because the staff are clearly giving their all to keep things clean, but there were bedbugs. I took photos and am still recovering. I woke early feeling itchy, at first thinking it was just me. Then I noticed it on my torso, arms, back and lower back. When I lifted the covers, I saw the bedbugs. I left very early, a few hours before checkout, left the key in the room with a note and went. This needs to be raised as a concern and addressed to keep the hotel clean.

The building is old, and getting to the rooms means climbing a narrow, winding staircase, which is a real problem with heavy luggage. My room looked renovated, but the materials seemed cheap. There was mold in the corners near the ceiling, and I was surprised to find a soap dispenser in the shower, something I’d never seen at a hotel before. The person I met in the lobby wasn’t very pleasant, though I imagine the rest of the staff may be fine. It’s okay for a night and very conveniently located. If the price is really low, it might be acceptable, but I wouldn’t recommend it highly.

The staff were very friendly, and the train station is close by. There are lots of inexpensive places to eat along the street, handy for a quick meal, and many sightseeing spots are within walking distance. The rooms are cozy, but the bathrooms are definitely cramped. Getting around the hotel is a bit difficult, since the rooms are only accessible by a spiral staircase. I didn’t try breakfast, so I can’t comment on it.

The location is the main draw. It’s about 10 minutes from the station, five minutes from a beautiful botanical garden and a 20-minute walk to downtown, with plenty of places to eat nearby. The rooms are comfortable, and room 102 is very quiet. Staff were pleasant and helpful, and they speak English. I’d stay here again.