Hayley
4/5
I stayed an extra night because the staff were very kind to me and I wanted to stay close to the hospital.
I made a mistake on my booking and accidentally booked the wrong room type and I was very grateful when the staff quickly helped me move to the room type I actually needed. I'm super grateful to Katrine (apologies if misspelled) for everything, she even pulled my unreasonably heavy rolling luggage for me! Super kind and very efficient. It was extra nice that she remembered my name and greeted me in the mornings, inquiring as to wellbeing. She even went to great efforts to secure me a second night stay despite that they were actually fully booked. A real professional and a credit to the hotel.
The room was basic, but I chose the cheapest option. The bathroom was clean and the water pressure fairly good. They supply an all in one soap in the shower stall and a soap dispenser beside the sink/wash basin. The door to the bathroom needs adjustment because it was hard to close. I forgot to notify the staff! They can't repair it if nobody tells them. The window was small and even when closed the fumes from smokers outside came in. I requested an electric fan and they kindly supplied one and the reception manager, Daniel, also said they would try to ask people to smoke further away. Unfortunately there are benches and ashtrays there, so it's not the fault of the smokers for choosing that spot. The problem didn't reoccur so we solved it. I slept as well as I could in my situation. The bed wasn't very comfortable for me, but being just a day post-op it is very hard to be comfortable. Also, people like different kinds of bed and I tend to prefer very squishy soft beds. This was maybe medium/hard and had a thick top-mattress over the main mattress. So likely most people find it comfortable. The room was clean and had a tiny refrigerator, which although not super cold, was extremely useful for me and a very welcome feature. No coffee facilities in the room, but a coffee machine (no extra cost) available at all times in the restaurant.
The breakfast was lovely and I'm usually disappointed with hotel breakfasts! I only wish it could have stretched to lunch time so that I could have had a second plate!
I ate at the restaurant. Very delicious food from a limited, but very nicely curated menu. It is moderately expensive, and the quality reflects this along with a very satisfying quantity. I wish I could have had a glass of wine with my food, but I was on strong pain medication. Madara the waitress was so welcoming and friendly. She showed great care and kindness asking me the next day how my recovery is going and wishing me well.
The parking was disappointing, especially in my condition. It's only a short walk, but all the same it was hard for me. I think the cost of parking should be deducted from the cost of the stay as for me hotels should always have free guest parking. The proximity to Oslo is probably why it has to be a paid space.
The area is a short drive from Sandvika and many options for shopping and entertainment. The immediate area had a shop and a fuel station. I didn't get to investigate much more in my condition. I asked about cafés and restaurants, but was informed that there isn't anything very close by. The surroundings are peaceful and close to water. I'm sure there are nice scenic walks. It felt peaceful and pleasant.
The staff are the reason I definitely will be staying here again. I must have further surgery and I felt so safe and cared for. Everyone kindly fetched crushed ice for me. Karl-Atle, who was working the night shift, even carried it to my room as I was carrying my coffee. He also greeted me in the morning before breakfast and asked how I was doing. Truly the staff here are such kind people. They really made a big difference to me during a vulnerable time.
Thank you to all these wonderful people!
Sorry I didn't take photos!
