Road Lodge Umhlanga Ridge

The staff made the stay comfortable: they were warm, polite, attentive, and quickly sorted out a housekeeping issue in our room. I chose the place because Gateway is within walking distance, so we could pick a restaurant for supper. The one hassle was getting in from the overflow mall parking. That door wasn't working, and we had to walk around in the rain to the main entrance.

Senzeni from security was the one bright spot, helpful and professional. The rest of the stay was very disappointing. The bedding was dirty, and the room clearly hadn't been checked before I arrived, even though staff knew I was coming. My paid airport shuttle also never arrived the next morning. Getting there wasn't much better. I couldn't get a proper, professional quote when I called to book. At 1 AM, I was left to check myself in despite having large luggage, which felt unsettling as a woman travelling alone. The receptionist was busy on his phone and seemed uninterested when I tried to buy water from the vending machine, telling me to go to a garage instead. I wouldn't recommend this location given the poor hygiene, unhelpful service, and lack of professionalism.

Gateway shopping centre is right nearby, with plenty of shops and restaurants, and the hotel is centrally placed for getting to the business centre. There's basement parking, buffet breakfast, and a la carte dinner, though no bar. The rooms were very clean and had a desk, TV, and coffee facilities. They were adequate, if a bit bare, and reminded me of a university dorm. Staff were friendly and efficient. For a budget hotel, it felt quite high end.

I had a good stay in room 115. I first asked to move from 102 because cockroaches were crawling around, including on the bed and blankets. The gentleman on duty quickly helped me switch rooms.