Let me begin this review by saying that this is the first negative review I have ever written about a hotel. We are a family of four with two small children that travel frequently. We are adaptable, easy going, and can make the most of almost every situation.
First off, we booked a “Quadruple Room.” I was under the impression that this would consist of two rooms, as to be able to separate our children to sleep. This is not the case, and the rooms are tiny. After walking in the room, we immediately walked down to the front desk, politely explained that this room would not work for our children, and asked to cancel the reservation. (We had only booked it 30 minutes prior) The front desk attendant stated that it was not his “duty” to be able to assist in the matter and refused to call a manager to explain our situation.
Ok, our bad for misunderstanding. We booked the room, we will make it work.
Except, after walking to our car, parking in a suspect “free parking area” and exploring a little, we came back to the room so my daughter could nap. When we got settled in the room, we noticed a weird sound when we turned the water on in our bathroom. After spending a few more minutes there, we realized that it wasn’t only when we used water, it happened any time ANYONE IN THE HOTEL USED WATER.
Also, when I say weird sound, think of the TV show lost, and the alarm when they are in the underground bunker. You could use this sound to torture people.
Still, making the most of it. Surely it will stop at nighttime, right. And the front desk had been so helpful so far. (sarcasm)
ALL NIGHT, every 10-30 minutes the alarm went off, waking at least one of us up every time. We attempted to call the front desk at 1:30 and again sometime around 3, but got no one.
Next morning, sleep deprived and in a fantastic mood, (again, sarcasm) we went downstairs to eat a delicious breakfast. Seriously, the breakfast was outstanding.
Leaving, I explained the noise to the front desk. He said he had not been notified of any noise and there was (again) nothing he could do for us. (Let me be clear: There is NO WAY that this noise had gone unnoticed) At this point, we were so frustrated that we decided not to bother with the shuttle and carried our children with our luggage what felt like 3 miles to our car.
THEN, when we arrived at our “free parking area” there were construction workers dismantling the side of the building that we were parked right next to. There were rocks falling all around the side and front of our car. The very nice construction man moved all obstacles out of our path so that we could exit. “Va Bene” No, no va bene, but whatever at that point. Not surprised.
After we returned home, I called the hotel to let them know about the parking situation so they could, I don’t know, let other customers know. Again I was told he was not aware of any such situation and it was not his duty to help us. This made me even more angry, and I informed him that I felt the need to write a negative review of their hotel.
Five minutes later a manager called me and explained that we had “unearthed a situation” with their septic system and as thank you, they would refund our stay. Fine, I just wanted to forget the last twenty four hours of my life.
Fast forward 10 days later, without receiving said refund, I email the hotel. I was then told I would not be receiving a complete refund, but only a small portion. Ok, so you are now calling me a liar. Outstanding. (again with the sarcasm)
The location, breakfast and gorgeous antique furniture do not even BEGIN to make up for the absolute worst customer service we have ever received. Not only will we never stay at this hotel again, I am not sure I will ever visit Cefalu ever again.