"I booked this hotel due to high ratings and attractive photos, expecting top quality and no hidden costs. Reality was disappointing.
At check-in I was shocked by the unexpected deposit demand- not mentioned clear but hidden, where the price was shown as final with all fees included, it did not include the deposit. The receptionist insisted the rate was “too low for two people” and pushed breakfast hard despite my clear refusal. We compromised: I paid only half the requested deposit.
I repeatedly asked if a contactless phone payment (Apple Pay) would allow instant refund at checkout. Each time: “No problem, come 15 min early, we check minibar and return it immediately.” It was a lie.
At 3 a.m. check-out (early flight) they said refunds only start at 9 a.m., no physical card= no instant return, transfer takes 3 business days. Mr. Ismail Balaban (shift manager?) and the receptionist showed zero empathy or willingness to help. To this day the deposit hasn’t been returned and no one has contacted me.
Worst part: the hotel created the problem but takes no responsibility to fix it. Only I have to chase, email and fight to recover my money.
Room: very comfortable beds (only real positive), broken bathroom scale, rusty bathtub plug, constant beeping from bathroom 24/7, average indoor pool. Housekeeping staff were genuinely kind and helpful.
For a 5-star hotel this level of unprofessionalism, dishonesty and lack of accountability is unacceptable. Price-quality mismatch is huge."