OYO Flagship 8645 Syeds Inn

Room service staff were good and obedient, and there was free Wi-Fi and good water. The hotel is good value compared with other places at similar prices, with things like an intercom and restaurant. Getting around is easy, which matters a lot, and I was happy with the improved stay. Earlier there was a water problem, but that's been solved and they now provide corporation water. Families and business travelers can stay comfortably for a longer time.

The location was great, and I had a nice two-day stay. The staff were cooperative and helpful, and most understood Urdu and Bangla since they came from West Bengal. The only downside was the salty water, which made it hard to shower properly.

The water from the tap was extremely salty, like seawater, and I couldn't even use it to bathe. The room boys said the water softener wasn't working, apparently just on the day I visited. They suggested another OYO hotel nearby if I wasn't happy, but I'd have had to pay extra on the spot. The blankets and towels smelled awful, and the old building was badly maintained. Staff also insisted on watching while guests gave them high ratings in the OYO app. If guests don't comply, they may be charged for damage. There should be one or two Tamil-speaking staff in Chennai, or at least staff who speak English. On the plus side, the room boys were helpful, though they couldn't speak Tamil or English. The room rate for an AC room was reasonable when booked through OYO, and the location made it easy to reach the city and public transport. It was easy to find near Anna Salai (Mount Road), opposite the YMCA main gate in Nandanam.

After paying online, I arrived for my 12:00 PM check-in and was told to leave because I'd paid online. I waited an hour and a half but never got a room. A completely poor experience. Please don't choose this hotel, and OYO and Syed Inn should be ashamed.