Deeply Disappointed – Not Worth the Price or the 4-Star Rating
Deeply Disappointed – Not Worth the Price or the 4-Star Rating
I stayed at the Gem Strathmore Hotel for two nights while working at Imperial College and needed to stay nearby. I paid nearly £500 — and honestly, I have no idea who awarded this hotel four stars.
From the moment I arrived, it felt like a rip-off. The first room I was given was the smallest I’ve ever seen. Booking.com stated the room would have a bath — it didn’t. When I asked, I was told I had to upgrade to get one. So I did — and paid an extra £48 — only to be moved to a basement room. Slightly bigger, yes, but still far below expectations for the price.
To top it off, I was woken up every morning by slamming doors and noise. I wondered what it was — then I realised the hotel’s storage room for amenities was right next to mine. Staff were going in and out from early morning, letting the doors bang loudly. Thank you for the wake-up calls — not.
Then came the questionable water. A glass bottle was left in the room with a loose, mouldy metal cap. I asked reception whether it was mineral water. The staff member said she didn’t know, and that it “probably” wasn’t. Again — for nearly £500, is safe, sealed water too much to ask?
The bed was two singles pushed together, not a real double. The mattress and pillows were awful — uncomfortable and unsupportive.
Breakfast? The room was grand, with lovely original decor. But I was told only continental breakfast was included — despite my booking simply stating “breakfast included.” No mention of it being limited. I was expected to pay £25 extra for eggs or meat. No thanks.
Overall, this hotel is overpriced and underdelivers. The location does not justify the cost, and the experience certainly doesn’t reflect a four-star standard. I’m seriously disappointed and will be raising this with Booking.com. I absolutely do not recommend this hotel and won’t be staying again.