I genuinely have no idea how Hotel Casablanca earned a 3.5-star rating. The property feels like it hasn’t been meaningfully updated since the 1970s.
The room itself was tired throughout. The mattress was old and, at least from what I could see, did not have a protective bed-bug encasement. The furnishings, bedding, and décor all looked decades past their prime.
The surroundings didn’t help. Our room overlooked a torn-down building, and the neighboring property also appeared abandoned, making the block feel run-down and uninviting.
Because the hotel sits directly in front of a busy bus stop, the entrance was crowded late at night with people who were not hotel guests. During our stay there were around twenty people gathered outside smoking and waiting for buses. There was also a woman with a young child panhandling on the property, and no staff member appeared to intervene. While I sympathize with people in difficult circumstances, it contributed to an uncomfortable first impression.
The first room we were assigned had an overwhelming odor of cheap men’s cologne. The smell was so strong that it immediately triggered sneezing, and I requested another room. The front desk changed it without hesitation, which gave me the impression they were already aware of the issue.
The one bright spot was the bell staff. They were genuinely friendly, professional, and helpful throughout our stay. They deserve recognition because they were the best part of the experience.
Free parking