The Benson Hotel

This hotel offers a memorable stay, distinguished by its recently renovated, modern rooms and an unbeatable central location that places guests within easy reach of the city's main attractions. It is an excellent fit for sightseers eager to explore on foot, business travelers attending events, and both couples and families seeking comfortable and convenient accommodation. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's cleanliness, the comfort of its beds, and the generally friendly and helpful staff. To enhance your experience, consider requesting a room away from the street-facing side to minimize potential noise, and be sure to check the limited operating hours of the on-site restaurant and bar upon arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a swimming pool that is generally well-maintained and appreciated by guests, though some note it lacks shade or umbrellas and can be quite deep. A significant recurring issue is the lifts, with many guests reporting that only one is operational, leading to considerable waiting times and frustration, especially given the lack of an accessible staircase option. The air conditioning in rooms is frequently described as noisy, often likened to a "jet engine," and many guests find it cannot be set below 22 or 23 degrees Celsius, which can be uncomfortable in warmer weather. For convenience, rooms are typically equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, kettle, and crockery and cutlery. While Wi-Fi is available, some reviews mention network outages or slow speeds. Laundry facilities are provided, but guests note there is often only one washing machine and one dryer, leading to availability issues. Parking is offered on-site but comes with a notable daily fee.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently praise the cleanliness and modernity of the rooms, often describing them as spacious and well-appointed following recent renovations. The beds are consistently highlighted as very comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, complemented by fluffy pillows. However, some guests find the beds to be on the softer side. The bathrooms are generally described as modern and clean, with many appreciating the great shower and good water pressure. Despite the overall positive feedback on cleanliness, a few guests reported minor issues such as housekeeping inconsistencies or a persistent damp smell in some areas, which some attribute to air conditioning issues. Noise levels can be a concern, particularly from street noise and loud music from nearby entertainment venues, especially on weekends, impacting the tranquility of some rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast at the hotel receives mixed feedback; most guests find it to be good with a nice selection, while some express disappointment with the variety, noting that the hot food can be cold, fruit options are limited (often canned), and there's a lack of cheese or diverse yogurt choices. The coffee from the machine is sometimes criticized, and some guests mention having to pay extra for certain coffee types. The hotel's restaurant and bar on Level 3 are generally well-regarded for their food quality and atmosphere, especially during happy hour with live music. However, a significant point of contention for many guests is that the restaurant and bar are only open on Fridays and Saturdays, which is seen as a major inconvenience for those staying during the week.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is overwhelmingly praised as one of its strongest assets, placing guests within easy walking distance of virtually everything in the city. It is conveniently situated opposite Rusty's Market and close to numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. Guests appreciate its proximity to the Esplanade, the night market, the shopping mall, the casino, and the train station. For those planning excursions, the Reef Terminal is also just a short walk away. While the hotel offers parking, guests frequently mention that it is quite expensive, with a daily fee. Despite this, the hotel's walkability makes it an ideal base for exploring the city without needing a vehicle.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests highlight the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as early check-in. The events team is particularly commended for their excellent communication and support in organizing business functions. However, feedback on housekeeping is mixed, with some guests noting inconsistencies or issues with room servicing. A few reviews mention isolated incidents of staff being perceived as rude, dismissive, or lacking full knowledge of hotel protocols, which can be frustrating for guests seeking assistance. Overall, the majority of guests report a positive experience due to the staff's welcoming demeanor.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel may charge a breakage deposit upon arrival, which some reviews indicate can take up to 30 days to be refunded. There have been instances of network outages affecting in-room Wi-Fi and TV services, with some guests reporting no compensation offered for this inconvenience. The hotel also hosts events with loud music, particularly on weekends, which can contribute to noise levels for guests in adjacent rooms. Some guests noted a lack of basic in-room amenities such as detergent for washing dishes or face washers. While the hotel provides umbrellas for guest use, some reviews mention that pool towels are not always readily available.