Hotel Relax Inn

While advertised as a four-star establishment, many guests perceive this hotel as more akin to a two or three-star property, offering a budget-friendly option for visitors. A unique feature is the ability to book the pool and jacuzzi for private, exclusive use, providing a secluded relaxation experience for an additional fee. The hotel is particularly well-suited for concert-goers attending events at the nearby O2 Arena, and budget-conscious travelers who prioritize affordability and convenient public transport access over central location. Most guests find the hotel to be clean, though rooms are frequently described as dated. Despite mixed feedback on breakfast and significant noise concerns from both external sources and neighboring rooms, the staff consistently receives praise for their helpfulness. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to utilize the excellent public transport links for city exploration and consider bringing earplugs for a more restful night.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though guest experiences are varied. The pool and jacuzzi are available for private booking, a feature some guests appreciate for its exclusivity, but it comes with an extra charge and is often occupied by external swimming lessons, limiting guest access. Many visitors note the absence of air conditioning, leading to uncomfortably warm rooms, though some were able to request a fan. While a lift is available for convenience, the Wi-Fi is generally reported as fast and reliable. Rooms typically include a mini-fridge and sometimes a kettle, though coffee supplies are inconsistent. Parking is available on-site but is described as a small and difficult space, incurring an additional fee, with some guests opting for street parking. The hotel does not feature a full-service restaurant or bar beyond breakfast, with a vending machine offering wine bottles as an alternative to traditional room service.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably mixed. While many visitors report their rooms to be clean and well-maintained upon arrival, others encountered issues such as dust, hair on bedding, stained carpets, or even ants and other insects. A recurring theme is the dated condition of the rooms, with observations of peeling wallpaper, worn furniture, damp spots, and general signs of age. Bed comfort varies widely; some guests found the beds comfortable, while many others described them as hard, thin, or noted issues with squeaky frames and two single beds pushed together. Noise is a significant concern, with complaints about thin walls allowing sounds from neighbors, banging doors, and considerable external noise from a busy railway line and road junction. Bathrooms are often described as small, with some guests reporting issues like non-functional soap dispensers, lack of shampoo, or broken fixtures.

Dining & Food Quality
The dining experience at the hotel primarily revolves around its breakfast buffet, which receives highly mixed reviews from guests. Many describe the breakfast as good, sufficient, and offering a decent variety of options, including cold cuts, cheese, breads, cereals, and fruit. The coffee is often praised for its quality. However, a significant number of guests express strong dissatisfaction, labeling the food quality as poor, basic, or even a "health hazard," citing issues like overcooked eggs with unusual discoloration or salami and ham appearing stale. Some note a lack of hot food options beyond beans and sausages, and a general monotony with the same items served daily. The juice is sometimes described as watered down, and certain items like scrambled eggs or orange juice are frequently reported as missing. The hotel does not offer a full-service restaurant or room service for other meals, with a vending machine serving as an alternative for beverages.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a significant point of discussion among guests. While it is generally considered quite far from the city center, often requiring a 30-40 minute journey, its accessibility via public transport is highly praised. A bus stop is conveniently located just steps away, providing quick connections to metro stations that lead directly into the city's main attractions. For those attending events, the hotel is notably close to the O2 Arena, with many guests finding it within walking distance or a short bus ride. However, the immediate surrounding area is described as residential and lacking in local restaurants or pubs, necessitating travel for dining and entertainment. The hotel is also situated near a busy railway line and road junction, contributing to external noise. On-site parking is available but is often described as limited, challenging to navigate, and incurs an additional fee, prompting some guests to seek alternative street parking.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel consistently receive high praise from guests, standing out as a strong positive aspect of the stay. Visitors frequently commend the reception staff for being exceptionally friendly, helpful, and accommodating, often going out of their way to assist with inquiries, provide directions, and resolve issues promptly. The check-in process is generally described as quick and efficient. While some guests noted occasional language barriers, the staff's willingness to assist and their overall pleasant demeanor largely overcome this. Housekeeping efforts receive mixed reviews, with some guests reporting clean rooms daily, while others experienced less frequent service or specific cleaning oversights. Despite minor inconsistencies, the overall impression of the staff is one of professionalism and a genuine desire to ensure a comfortable guest experience, contributing significantly to positive reviews.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel's marketing photos may not always accurately represent the property, with some reviews noting the use of images depicting a shopping center located a considerable distance away. It is also advisable to confirm booking details directly with the hotel, as some guests have reported issues with unexpected cancellations or discrepancies upon arrival, which can cause inconvenience. Additionally, while public transport is readily available and convenient, it is recommended to purchase transport tickets from official vendors or machines, as there have been isolated reports of misinformation regarding ticket availability from unofficial sources. Overall, the hotel is often seen as a value-for-money option, particularly for those seeking an affordable stay near the O2 Arena, but setting realistic expectations regarding its amenities and perceived star rating is crucial for a satisfactory experience.