Holiday Inn Cagliari by IHG

The pool was a lovely extra and a nice place to relax after a long day. At the bar, Cuban bartender Luisa made a refreshing mojito that hit the spot. Reception staff Federica and Stefano were especially welcoming and helped with everything I needed. I had a fantastic stay at Holiday Inn Cagliari. It’s very close to the airport, which made arriving and leaving so convenient. Highly recommend for both the location and hospitality.

The staff were polite, and the stay was nice enough, but it felt a little expensive for what you get. Breakfast was really poor, especially when you’re paying €140.00 a night and have certain expectations.

The bar staff were good and there was a decent choice, but a couple of times I waited an unnecessary 10 minutes and had to ask reception twice to call them. Breakfast wasn’t great, so if you can, it’s better to buy your own from a local grocery store the day before. The pool felt more like a children’s pool than an adult one, and the area badly needs restoration. Several pieces are missing from the facade, which looks poorly maintained. I booked an upgraded room. It was spacious and satisfactory, with working air conditioning, though the window wouldn’t open and was dirty enough that I could barely see outside. The view was depressing, but manageable. Reception service started well. Unfortunately, only one of the two staff spoke English, and the other didn’t seem familiar with the routines, which made things difficult. I broke my toe at the beach on the first day and couldn’t walk, so I asked if someone could bring food and drink to my room, and whether room service could be complimentary given the circumstances. At first they said no problem, then changed their minds and tried to charge me, then reversed course and gave it free, but made it feel like an act of mercy. I felt as if I had to beg. The experience that really lowered my rating was the taxi mix-up. I ordered a taxi at reception for no earlier than 15 minutes later, then canceled it less than 60 seconds afterward when I learned of a meeting change. Five minutes later, I was told the taxi was waiting. I explained to the English-speaking staff member that it had been canceled straight away, but they said they’d cancel it this time and that from then on I’d have to order my own taxis. They made it seem like my fault, though the non-English-speaking staff member had misunderstood me. In tourist high season, having a trainee at reception who wasn’t experienced or able to speak English made matters worse. I’m certain this was my last stay here.

The location only really makes sense if you need to be near the airport or want to explore the beaches of southern Sardegna. It’s beside the highway in an industrial area. On the plus side, the staff were very friendly, the beds were very comfortable, and both breakfast and dinner were good.