Cambria Hotel

We booked the Cambria Hotel based on the room listing on Booking.com, which explicitly promised WiFi, air conditioning, hot showers and a safety deposit box. None of them was available as described. The WiFi never worked during our stay. Although we were told each day it would be fixed, it wasn’t, and I had to buy my own data package for essential work. Air conditioning came with an extra charge, which we reluctantly agreed to, but we were charged for nights when the power was out and it couldn’t be used. There was no hot water for our whole stay, and we later learned that hot water also came at an undisclosed surcharge. The room didn’t match the description either. It had visible mold and dampness, no safety deposit box, and faulty door locks, with parts of the locks stored in a drawer. We tried to sort this out with staff and management. They said they couldn’t offer a discount or compensation because the owner would illegally deduct it from their salaries. That suggests a breach of labor rights and a climate of fear and exploitation, which is unfortunately all too common in the Global South. The day before we left, the manager, who is the owner’s sister, agreed that we could pay local rates and have the air conditioning fees waived. The owner then overturned that agreement without speaking to us or giving a reason. When we asked to talk to the owner, management refused, saying they feared retaliation.

The staff’s kindness felt genuine throughout my stay. Reception took time to chat, the restaurant team recognized me when I came in, and the same people saw me off with a personal note. Breakfast was varied and enjoyable, with fresh pastries, freshly squeezed juice and nicely presented savory dishes. I would have liked a few more vegetarian choices, as others have mentioned. The garden was a peaceful retreat, with flowerbeds and a subtle fountain. Natural light in the lobby gave it a reassuring feel, away from the city bustle. My north-facing room looked toward the canopy and had light oak furniture, spotless bedding and a faint essential-oil scent that made it easy to rest. I did notice some sound coming through the walls. I came across the Cambria Hotel almost by chance and left feeling as if a burden had lifted. It does the things that matter well: nature, considerate comfort and attentive service. If you can live with a few small shortcomings in the soundproofing and buffet choices, it’s a restorative break. I’d gladly return for another peaceful escape.

The studio still suits me well. It’s airy, pleasant and looks out over the countryside, and a new generator now provides electricity. Bravo for that. But construction of two ground-floor studios brought 44 days of unbearable noise for the guests. Every day except December 25th, there was banging from hammers and sledgehammers, plus loud drills and grinders. There was no consideration for the people staying there. It’s outrageous, and I won’t return to the Cambrian because there’s no guarantee guests will be respected. I travel five to six months a year and have never had this happen without being warned. My earlier review from May 2022 still stands on the studio itself: no hot water, which surprised me; no mirror in the living room; and a tiny shower and toilet, like a two-star hotel.

The staff are attentive and very helpful, and the beds are comfortable. It’s a simple, practical and secure hotel with air conditioning, but there’s no hot water.