Manzo's Suites

The room looked nice, and the receptionist and cleaning staff were kind and generally helpful. But over our three nights, from December 8th to 11th, we had a string of issues in suite number 11 at The Monument Hotel – Manzo’s Suites in Zaandam. We were charged for roses and towel swans we hadn't asked for. We were told the charge would be refunded, but more than three weeks later there's been no update or money back. Some advertised facilities were faulty too: two of the three hot-tub features didn't work, and the tub was broken along one side. The toilet wasn't clean when we arrived, with toilet paper left inside and a mostly used roll on the holder. The TV couldn't use SharePlay, which the hotel already knows about and guests have mentioned in earlier reviews. We reported it on our first day and only got a response on our last evening. Since the free-to-air channels were all in Dutch and my partner and I only speak English, the TV was useless to us. We also went most of the stay without amenities listed on Booking.com, including bathrobes. When robes finally arrived, they were poor quality, with holes and falling apart, and barely fit. Other room problems included nails sticking out of the walls, a big dip in the middle of the bed, and a bright router right above the bed that disturbed sleep despite the blackout blinds.

The place looked lovely at first, but the stay was a letdown. The TV didn't work, and it was hard to reach reception. When they finally replied, they said they'd sort out the TV after we'd checked out. We also got robes that were falling apart and far too small, even though the ones promised through Booking.com hadn't been provided when we asked. They charged us for rose petals we never requested and promised a refund, but five weeks later it still hadn't come through. The jacuzzi buttons didn't work either.

The room was the disappointing part. The bed and shower were clean, but the toilet and couch were disgusting, and the air conditioning didn't work. It stayed at 30 degrees all night, even with the windows open, while noise from the nightclub right below made it worse. The hotel itself was fine otherwise. It's centrally located, easy to reach by car or public transport, and the breakfast was tasty with some solid choices. The club is part of the area, though, so expect that.

There was some noise from the nearby bars and clubs, but the sound insulation kept it bearable and it didn't interrupt our sleep. The location was handy for the shops and train station too. Our room was spacious and well equipped, with a comfortable bed and a shower that worked really well.