My stay at the Movenpick Durres Hotel had its highs and lows: Staff Recommendation: Leda stood out as an exemplary staff member. Her kindness, attentiveness, and professionalism made a significant positive impact on my stay. She handled every request with a smile and efficiency, embodying the hospitality one expects from a five-star establishment. Check-in / Reception: The check-in process was smooth and efficient, with the reception staff were lovely and extending a warm welcome. Sofa Bed: I had a late flight, and upon arrival, the room was missing pillows and linen for the sofa bed. Although this was swiftly rectified, it should have been set up prior to my arrival. Breakfast: The breakfast lacked variety. For a family staying two weeks, the same food day after day becomes quite boring. A five-star hotel should offer more diverse options. Towels: The quality and availability of towels were disappointing. The towels were more like thin throws, unsuitable for drying off or using at the beach or pool. Also being told towards the end of our stay that there is a limit on the number of towels we can take based on occupancy is unacceptable. In a five star hotel, guests should have ample access to fresh towels without restriction. One towel per person is insufficient for a full day at the beach or pool, especially with children. Beach Beds: The beach beds were comfortable but very dirty, with stains on many of them. This is not up to the standards of a five-star hotel. In other high-end hotels, beach beds are cleaned and washed down every evening, and the beach is maintained without debris. One of the most frustrating aspects was that every morning the onsite team would ”save & chain” multiple front-view sea beds for ”VIPs of the hotel,” which is unacceptable. Most of these chairs remain unused for the whole day. Unless you are present at the beach, you should not be able to hold a spot for others just in case they arrive. Many guests are families who want to be able to see their children playing in front of the beach. Who classifies hotel staff as a higher priority than other paying guests? Dinner Menu: The dinner menu has not changed since last year. We stayed here last year for a few days, and the menu is exactly the same, with no changes. When staying for weeks, the repetitive food is not ideal. Hotel Room Towels and Water: We were three people in one room, and for the beginning of the stay yet we were only given two towels, and replenished water was only provided for two. If we are paying for a suite for three, then provisions should be made accordingly. Ping Pong Table: The ping pong table was a nice touch. However, there was only one ball, and it went missing. A five-star hotel should have replacements on hand and not rely on one ball for all guests. While Movenpick Durres has great aspects, including friendly and professional staff like Leda and a hassle-free check-in process, it falls short in many other areas. The property has th
