Palm House Boutique Hotel and Spa

The heritage feel of Palm House Boutique is one of my favorite things, and breakfast was easily five-star, maybe even better. The hotel itself is wonderful, with impeccable service and real attention to detail. I’d eaten at their exceptional De Tafel Restaurant before, but this was my first stay. I also tried Chef Gregory’s Tasting Menu, which was incredible. The food’s quality, flavor, and presentation were outstanding, and each wine pairing worked perfectly with its dish. Thanks to Hze, Chef Gregory, and the helpful staff. I highly recommend this charming boutique hotel and can’t wait to come back.

My visit has been overshadowed by how badly this was handled. I booked a massage and facial, and my close friend Ayesha Kazim (recent review) was due for a massage about 45 minutes later. Communication before we arrived had already been poor, though at first the staff seemed ready to provide the treatments we’d paid for. While I was having my treatments, she waited 10-15 minutes at the restaurant before being told it was closed. She asked about ordering Uber Eats and was told that was fine. After she placed the order and waited around 20 minutes, staff said she couldn't eat on the property. Her food was delivered, but she never got it, so she was left hungry and frustrated. It’s strange not to let a guest eat on hotel grounds, but the bigger problem is that nobody told us in advance. After our massages, I could see her mood had changed. We explained what happened to the guest experience manager. He apologized, said he’d look into it, and admitted he didn’t know why we’d been given the wrong information. Only then did he mention snacks were available. Nobody had offered or shown those to my friend. Mistakes happen, but giving misinformation afterward is unacceptable. Please take responsibility. Staff communicated badly, failed to offer available options, and gave no solution or compensation for her wasted time, hunger, or inconvenience. I’m very disappointed in the way this matter was handled. Do better.

The food was actually very good, which makes the service and attitude all the more disappointing. It could have been a lovely family lunch, but management left us feeling unwelcome from the moment we arrived. We were told we had to pay the full visitor day fee even though we were there for lunch at the restaurant. Then our kids were refused dessert because it was just past the 15:30 cut-off. There were no other guests around, and serving it would have taken very little effort. The rule felt rigid and short on basic hospitality. The manager on duty showed no people skills and made no effort to help or find a solution. Such a pity.

We’d happily stay again. The room was spacious and lovely, the food was very good, and the pool was heated. The grounds were beautifully kept, and everyone was so friendly with my two-year-old son. The staff were a joy: attentive, warm, funny, and professional. The only small annoyance was the shower getting everything wet, but it mattered very little to us.