Geneva Motor Lodge

The room had fresh blood on both the sheet and pillowcase. When we were asked if we wanted them changed, we thought that was ridiculous. The owner returned with one sheet, and we had to ask specifically for another. We later found glass in the courtyard, which was described as private, though at least four windows look into it. When we raised it, he blamed us, even though we hadn't put it there. Then he told us to leave because we complained about the broken bulbs, dirty mugs, bloodstains, and glass. My children saw the whole thing, and I've never felt so angry or humiliated. This man ruined our first family holiday, and I'm amazed the place is still operating. Before we even arrived, despite an 8-hour drive, we got four calls asking where we were. We still arrived before the 7pm check-in cutoff. It felt like the male owner only wanted to know whether he could sell the room to someone else. He was rude, arrogant, nasty, and completely self-centred. Once we got there, both outside lights, at the front and back, had blown and needed replacing. The mugs in the cupboard were dirty when we went to make coffee. Disgusting.

The smell in the one-bedroom apartment was awful, like stale fish, and it was in the cupboards and drawers too. The cleaners had used some sort of air freshener just minutes before we arrived, and that smell mixed in with it. We left the door, windows, and cupboard doors open for hours, well into the night, and I even took down the curtains to air the place out. It was a terrible way to start a holiday. Then, before we'd even been there 24 hours, the host blamed me for a pot mark on the bench and demanded money. I didn't make the mark. I hadn't used the small pot for cooking. The next morning I used it only to empty cold leftovers while washing my larger pots. I'd noticed the mark while cooking but wasn't concerned, since I hadn't caused it. I tried explaining that to the woman, but she insisted I was responsible and later handed me a $250 bill. We'd planned two relaxing nights, but it became stressful and disastrous. We wanted to leave straight away, but stayed one more night because our child wanted to use the spa. My husband and I barely slept, worrying about being blamed when my explanation wasn't heard or considered. I would have openly paid every cent for damage I actually caused, but being treated as guilty and having my honesty questioned made me sad and worried for future holidaymakers and tourists. I told the host, and I'll keep telling people, that I did not do this and was treated unfairly. I'll tell at least 100 people, a million times if I have to. Please think twice before booking here.

The electrics were a hassle. Lights flickered, and some outlets only worked after resetting the mains. The spa worked on just one night, apparently it was already broken and we were told beforehand, but there was no alternative or discount. Towels were rationed to one per guest. The office stayed locked all day, so you had to ring for someone to let you in, and the woman seemed annoyed even during office hours. It was a cheap motel, but I've stayed in others for no less that were up to standard.

Staff and management are really helpful, and the rooms are reasonably looked after, with clean linen and towels provided daily as needed. General maintenance is what lets the place down. The spa baths could use more care, and the microwave ovens are overdue for replacement. Still, good value, a solid three stars.