Hotel Ocean

The hotel's signature feature is its central location in the heart of the city, placing guests within easy reach of local attractions and amenities. This hotel is primarily suited for budget travelers, solo adventurers, and business travelers seeking an affordable place for a short stay or overnight rest. While it offers a convenient base for exploring the area, guests should be prepared for an older property with a rustic charm. The hotel's affordability and strategic position make it a practical choice for those prioritizing location over luxury. For a more comfortable experience, it is advisable to confirm room conditions upon arrival and be aware that the hotel primarily relies on stairs, which may not be suitable for elderly guests or those with mobility challenges. Additionally, guests should anticipate potential noise from morning repairs.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's facilities are basic, reflecting its budget-friendly nature. A significant point for guests is the absence of an elevator, meaning all rooms are accessed via stairs, which can be challenging for some. While some rooms feature a new air conditioning unit and a functional television, others have reported issues with non-working units or limited channels. Wi-Fi service is generally described as weak or non-existent in many areas, prompting guests to rely on their mobile data. Essential amenities such as free coffee, mineral water, and toiletries are not consistently provided, and there is no ironing board available. Some guests noted the presence of a water purifier in the hallway, offering a source of drinking water.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is notably mixed, with many guests reporting significant issues. Common complaints include dirty floors, dusty surfaces, and a pervasive unpleasant smell, often described as moldy or smoky. The presence of cockroaches was a recurring concern for several visitors. Some found their bed sheets to be stained, smelly, or causing skin irritation. While some guests found the beds comfortable enough for a short stay, others noted a hard mattress. The toilets were frequently mentioned for their strong odor, slow water flow, or pump problems. Noise can be an issue, particularly from morning repairs or general activity outside the rooms. Some rooms lack windows, contributing to a stuffy atmosphere, and the door knobs were sometimes reported as loose or easily opened.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as its strongest asset, making it highly convenient for guests. It is situated in the middle of town, offering easy walking access to numerous shops, a 24-hour market, and the popular night market directly in front of the premises. The Lahad Datu Post Office is conveniently located next door, providing a potential free overnight parking option for those traveling by car. Despite its prime position, the hotel is on a busy road with heavy traffic, which can make parking challenging during peak hours. Guests should also be aware that access to rooms involves navigating steep and high stairs, a point frequently mentioned by visitors.

Staff & Service
Guest experiences with the staff and service are varied. Many guests found the staff to be friendly and helpful, particularly in assisting with room changes when issues arose, such as a non-functional air conditioner or mobility concerns. The check-in process was generally described as easy. However, some reviews reported instances of unfriendly reception staff and confusion regarding pricing. There were also significant complaints about bad management, including instances where booked rooms were not reserved or were still occupied upon arrival, forcing guests to seek alternative accommodation. Housekeeping was criticized by some for not returning forgotten items, leading to concerns about trustworthiness. A deposit is required upon check-in.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several specific aspects of the hotel. A refundable deposit is required at check-in. The hotel has an issue with cigarette smoke permeating the building, as smoking appears to be permitted in rooms, making it less suitable for non-smokers. There were also reports of incense burning within the premises, contributing to the smoky atmosphere. A significant concern raised by some guests was the hotel's booking management, with instances of rooms being confirmed but still occupied upon arrival, leading to considerable inconvenience. Furthermore, some guests reported that forgotten items, such as phone chargers, were not returned after their stay. The overall impression for some is that the hotel is an older property that could benefit from significant updates.