Riviera Hotel

The staff were kind and friendly, but there were serious problems throughout my stay from 4 to 7 January 2025. The hotel was infested with cockroaches, the air conditioners didn't work, and water leaked in the bathroom. The lift was out, so I had to carry my luggage up the stairs to the fifth floor. On my last night I left my cellphone in the car, which meant another trip down and back up those stairs. Parking was a nightmare and wasn't free for guests. On a rainy day you can't just relax indoors without watching the bill, which could reach R200 for a full day and night. The rooms also had no small fridge or microwave. I can live with old furniture, but this place needs a serious revamp.

Check-in was easy, and the staff were professional and friendly. Breakfast was good for a budget hotel, and I'd recommend staying here. I'd give it 8/10. The only issue I had was with DSTV. There were eight channels, but just two ordinary ones worked. I hope management takes note and sorts it out, as they seem to respond to reviews I've read before. Thanks.

The breakfast was great, the view from the fifth floor was lovely, and the staff were very friendly. The hotel is also close to Durban attractions. Still, it was a very disappointing stay. The lift wasn't working, and we had to go up and down to the fifth floor with my mom, who has a bad knee. The wet-carpet smell was awful. The TV was an old, blurry set, Wi-Fi didn't reach some rooms, and there was no fridge or microwave despite this being a self-catering place. Hotel guests also don't get discounted parking. Never again.

I'd already paid for my booking, but apparently the hotel was overbooked. I only found out after I messaged them, and they replied, “We don't see your booking.” No apology at all. I understand that these things can happen, but at least they could say sorry. Who's managing bookings and customer care at this hotel?