VIP Executive Azores Hotel

The gym equipment was outdated and clearly hadn’t been maintained for years, and the swimming pool was unavailable, though nothing about that was mentioned when I booked. The entrance looks good, but the interior is poorly maintained, and the hotel is really expensive for what it offers. The rooms are a bit outdated and smelly, and the air conditioning didn’t work. The whole AC system was broken, and management offered no refund. It doesn’t provide four-star-level service. Sorry for the negative feedback, but the reviews seem far too high for this place. For what I paid, I could have stayed somewhere better.

The balcony and top-floor terrace had a really good view, but there was no service on the terrace, and all the sunbeds were worn out. The restaurant was about average and expensive at 32 euros, though that included the buffet and wine. Staff and service were average too. My room was okay, but sounds from nearby rooms came easily through the walls, and it didn’t feel properly cleaned. The bathtub had old marks, the shower handle leaked, and the quilt had blood stains. Reception replaced it without a proper excuse or compensation, saying they don’t change it between bookings, which sounded remarkable. The gym equipment was outdated and hadn’t been maintained for years. The entrance looks impressive, but the hotel is poorly maintained, expensive, and not at a four-star level. If I return, I’ll choose another hotel.

We got very good value for the price. The rooms are large by European standards and have a mid-century modern feel, with a nice balcony and a view. Staff were friendly, and it’s easy to reach the roads. Downtown and the shopping mall are about a 20-minute walk away. There wasn’t a coffee maker in the room, but we asked for a kettle and picked up instant coffee from the supermarket across the road. The rooftop pool and bar were closed, but that wasn’t a big issue for us.

The rooftop pool is still closed, and you’re not allowed to sunbathe up there. For the indoor pool, bring your own swimming cap or buy one for €4. Even with a “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door, staff may still come into your room. You also have to ask reception for basic things like a kettle and condiments. If you’re on a budget and just need a basic room without extras, it might work. I wasn’t impressed and wouldn’t call it a real four-star hotel.