The pre-sale package price was inflated, service standards were inconsistent, and the front desk staff was indifferent.
My two-night stay at CHAO Hotel Beijing for 3360 RMB was a disappointment. When I inquired if breakfast was included, I was told it wasn't, and a double breakfast would cost an additional 536 RMB. On the day of check-in, the same room type on Ctrip was just over 1700 RMB and included double breakfast. The pre-sale package was actually more expensive than the walk-in rate, a clear case of price inversion. The front desk staff was cold and unhelpful; it was only after Ctrip intervened that we managed to get double breakfast for the second night. The pricing system is clearly a mess.
I called for water to make Gongfu tea, and the delivery person warned that more than 6 bottles might incur a charge, which felt quite unpleasant. However, the next day, the cleaning lady proactively provided extra water when she saw us making tea. The service within the same hotel was polarizing. During this trip to Beijing, I also stayed at The Peninsula and several Hyatt hotels, and I never encountered such issues.
After checking out, the hotel called for a follow-up. Their intention was likely to solicit a positive review, but I honestly relayed my unsatisfactory experience. The staff member promised a further follow-up call, but I never heard back from them. Overall, the experience was a huge letdown.
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