Carlton Hotel

I enjoyed my week at the hotel, and the staff outside the casino were highly professional. The casino itself needs attention, though, which is why I’m giving one star to alert management. Dealers gossiped when they thought guests didn’t speak Malagasy, and their behavior felt erratic. They laughed when someone lost a bet and gossiped more when someone won several times. The Filipino manager’s communication with staff came across as overly aggressive and made the gaming atmosphere unpleasant. Carlton may be unrivaled for casino options in the city, but this conduct doesn’t meet the standard I’d expect of a 5-star establishment.

I only stopped by for the bar and casino during a tournament, so I didn’t stay overnight. The lobby was beautiful and clean, and this is the city’s best casino.

Right in the heart of the Lower city, this place is quiet and very clean overall. The furniture and decor look a little old, and breakfast is rather limited and could be better. Free Wi-Fi worked without any problems. I didn’t try the pool, but it looked clean and well cared for.

The room was huge, with a lovely view over the north of the city, a very comfortable large bed, charging sockets, armchairs and bottled water. The minibar had a good range of snacks and drinks, but there was no bottle opener or iron, which was a letdown for a high-end hotel. The bathroom looked dated but was spotless, with plenty of storage, expected amenities, a decent shower over the bath and good towels. Housekeeping did a great job, and everyone I met there was friendly. The hotel’s exterior didn’t make much of an impression, but inside it has a traditional luxury feel that suits the location, even if some might find it dated. Check-in was lovely, and staff were happy to offer city advice. Breakfast comes in a fairly basic room. You mark choices on a small paper menu and they’re cooked to order, rather than taking food from a buffet. It’s a nice idea, though self-serve drinks or pastries would have helped. The staff were lovely here too. I didn’t get to use the outdoor pool and bar because the weather was poor and the area stayed closed, though it looked like a great spot. The lobby bar was a comfortable place to spend the evening, with decent food and drink choices, reasonable prices, seating for groups or solo guests, and a small outdoor terrace. There was nothing on draft while I was there. I’d stay again when I’m back in the city, especially if you like traditional luxury.