Thistle Johor Bahru
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Summary of reviewsThistle Johor Bahru offers a strategically located retreat with numerous positive aspects. Guests consistently praise its central location, highlighting its proximity to the city center, local eateries, shopping centers and tourist attractions. The beautiful views of the strait and sea from the hotel add to its allure. The area is noted for accessibility to major roads and manages to remain relatively quiet despite its central position with ample parking enhancing convenience.
The breakfast experience is generally favorable. Guests commend the varied and delicious spread, supported by a pleasant ambiance and polite staff. The presence of a fish pond near the breakfast café also adds charm. However, some guests have pointed out the limited variety and quality of certain dishes, alongside issues with space and service during peak times.
Dinner experiences are mixed yet feature highlights like the praised Ramadhan buffet and certain tasty dishes. Despite some negative feedback on specific menu items and service during busy periods, the dining environment is found enjoyable by many.
Spacious rooms with picturesque sea views garner positive remarks, providing a restful atmosphere for families and groups. However, recurring issues with cleanliness and maintenance detract from the overall experience. Guests have reported dirty carpets, mold and non-functioning amenities, indicating a need for significant renovations.
Cleanliness across the hotel is a notable concern with multiple reports of unclean conditions, including moldy bathrooms and stained bedspreads. Despite occasional commendations for good housekeeping, the consensus calls for improvements in sanitation and maintenance.
Generally, the hotel staff are appreciated for their friendliness and helpfulness, particularly at the reception and concierge. Nonetheless, instances of slow service and unresponsive front desk staff do occur, affecting some guests' experiences.
The WiFi service receives mixed reviews with several guests citing intermittent connections and slow speeds. Better instructions for accessing WiFi could improve user experience.
Guests find the gym comfortable and adequately equipped, though there are issues with faulty equipment and the lack of toilet facilities. The operating hours and maintenance need attention.
The pool is a popular feature, praised for its size and suitability for families, but some guests report cleanliness issues and broken tiles. The poolside bar and views are additional highlights.
Parking is generally convenient and ample, although some find the basement parking area outdated and the lack of a lift problematic.
Families particularly enjoy Thistle Johor Bahru for its spacious rooms and kid-friendly amenities like the pool. Despite some room service criticisms, the hotel remains a preferred choice for family stays.
Most guests find the beds comfortable with positive mentions of their size and coziness. However, complaints regarding cleanliness, such as stained or smelly bedding, suggest a need for better upkeep.
Finally, Thistle Johor Bahru often falls short of its advertised five-star rating with guests noting that the facilities and overall experience are more reflective of a three-star hotel. Improvements in service provision and facility condition are needed to meet higher expectations.
Overall, while Thistle Johor Bahru has numerous strengths, addressing the cons will be key to elevating the guest experience.
Categories
The breakfast experience is generally favorable. Guests commend the varied and delicious spread, supported by a pleasant ambiance and polite staff. The presence of a fish pond near the breakfast café also adds charm. However, some guests have pointed out the limited variety and quality of certain dishes, alongside issues with space and service during peak times.
Dinner experiences are mixed yet feature highlights like the praised Ramadhan buffet and certain tasty dishes. Despite some negative feedback on specific menu items and service during busy periods, the dining environment is found enjoyable by many.
Spacious rooms with picturesque sea views garner positive remarks, providing a restful atmosphere for families and groups. However, recurring issues with cleanliness and maintenance detract from the overall experience. Guests have reported dirty carpets, mold and non-functioning amenities, indicating a need for significant renovations.
Cleanliness across the hotel is a notable concern with multiple reports of unclean conditions, including moldy bathrooms and stained bedspreads. Despite occasional commendations for good housekeeping, the consensus calls for improvements in sanitation and maintenance.
Generally, the hotel staff are appreciated for their friendliness and helpfulness, particularly at the reception and concierge. Nonetheless, instances of slow service and unresponsive front desk staff do occur, affecting some guests' experiences.
The WiFi service receives mixed reviews with several guests citing intermittent connections and slow speeds. Better instructions for accessing WiFi could improve user experience.
Guests find the gym comfortable and adequately equipped, though there are issues with faulty equipment and the lack of toilet facilities. The operating hours and maintenance need attention.
The pool is a popular feature, praised for its size and suitability for families, but some guests report cleanliness issues and broken tiles. The poolside bar and views are additional highlights.
Parking is generally convenient and ample, although some find the basement parking area outdated and the lack of a lift problematic.
Families particularly enjoy Thistle Johor Bahru for its spacious rooms and kid-friendly amenities like the pool. Despite some room service criticisms, the hotel remains a preferred choice for family stays.
Most guests find the beds comfortable with positive mentions of their size and coziness. However, complaints regarding cleanliness, such as stained or smelly bedding, suggest a need for better upkeep.
Finally, Thistle Johor Bahru often falls short of its advertised five-star rating with guests noting that the facilities and overall experience are more reflective of a three-star hotel. Improvements in service provision and facility condition are needed to meet higher expectations.
Overall, while Thistle Johor Bahru has numerous strengths, addressing the cons will be key to elevating the guest experience.
Luxury Hotel
This 5-star hotel offers luxurious accommodations with panoramic views of the Strait of Johor or the city skyline. It features outdoor pools, a beauty and massage spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining and bar options. Rooms are spacious and include modern amenities.
Hotel near Golf Courses
Located in Johor Bahru, it is a well-known hotel that offers a comfortable stay and easy access to local attractions and golf courses. It provides standard amenities suitable for a golf trip.
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
This hotel has an explicitly stated environment-friendly policy, indicating its commitment to responsible operational practices.
Hotel for Honeymoon
Thistle Johor Bahru is a good choice for honeymooners, offering dedicated honeymoon suites that cater to couples seeking a romantic getaway. The suites are noted to be clean and well-maintained, adding to the overall positive experience.
Family Friendly Hotel
This hotel is well-located in Johor Bahru, offering comfortable accommodations and family-friendly services [From the data source].
Romantic Hotel
Mentioned as a romantic hotel, providing a tranquil escape with beautiful sea views overlooking the Straits of Johor, creating a serene backdrop for couples.
Hotel with Swimming Pool
This hotel includes a large outdoor pool with ample space for swimming and lounging. The pool area is surrounded by greenery, offering a relaxing environment.
Children's Pool Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
Thistle Johor Bahru provides business travelers with a range of facilities, including meeting rooms and event spaces. The hotel also offers business services to support corporate events and meetings.
Accessible Hotel
This hotel provides accessibility features including a lift, wheelchair accessibility (though limitations may apply), a wheelchair-accessible concierge desk, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible pool, and a wheelchair-accessible registration desk. Their Junior Suite is designed to allow mobility and accessibility.
Hotel with Gym
Thistle Johor Bahru features a modern fitness centre with various cardio and workout machines, as well as heavier weights, allowing guests to maintain their workout routines. The hotel also offers a vast array of health and wellness activities. It has an 'Amazing GymFactor'.
5-Star Hotel
This 5-star hotel features tastefully decorated accommodations and a variety of health and wellness activities. It offers multiple dining options, a free-form swimming pool, and complimentary WiFi, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Hotel with Children's Pool
Features a distinct children's pool area with spacious and dedicated sections for both children and adults, making it child-friendly and welcoming for families. It also offers family-friendly rooms and dining options.
Hotel with Parking
Hotel with Tennis Courts
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Guest Reviews
The location of Thistle Johor Bahru receives consistent praise from its guests. Centrally situated and near the town, the hotel offers easy access to the city center, making it convenient for travelers. Guests appreciate its proximity to local eateries, shopping centers and tourist attractions, as well as the Singapore border. The strategic and superb location provides not only convenience but also beautiful views, particularly of the strait and sea, which many guests found to be a highlight of their stay.
The vicinity includes a variety of restaurants, cafes and other amenities, enhancing the overall appeal. Access to major connecting roads simplifies traveling in and out of the city. Despite its central position, the location remains relatively quiet with manageable traffic. Parking is also facilitated by the hotel's spacious compound.
Whether it’s the vibrant city buzz, the ease of reaching favorite dining spots or the stunning sea views from their rooms, guests find the hotel’s location a significant advantage. This strategic placement, complemented by helpful and courteous staff, adds to the satisfactory experience at Thistle Johor Bahru.
The breakfast experience at Thistle Johor Bahru has garnered a range of feedback from guests with notable mentions of both positive and less favorable aspects. On the positive side, many guests praised the breakfast for being good, nice and quite varied with comments highlighting a nice breakfast spread and a delicious breakfast. Some guests found the breakfast to be superb with a decent variety and tasty options, while the building's ambiance and polite staff further enhance the dining experience. The presence of a fish pond near the breakfast café also received appreciation.
However, several guests pointed out areas for improvement. Complaints were made about the limited variety and minimal selections of the breakfast buffet. Issues with the food quality, such as tasteless dishes and cold items even when placed in a bain-marie, were noted. The breakfast area was often described as cramped and too small, leading to long queues and insufficient seating. Some guests experienced poor service, insufficient food in the dining area and even cleanliness issues. There were also specific grievances such as the absence of baby-friendly meals and basic breakfast items like eggs.
Overall, while many guests find the breakfast at Thistle Johor Bahru enjoyable and satisfying, there is a clear call for improvements in variety, quality and service to better meet guest expectations.
Thistle Johor Bahru offers a mixed dining experience with some standout highlights for guests looking to savor a meal at the hotel. The food quality receives praise, particularly the delicious ramadhan buffet, which boasts a wide and enjoyable variety. Guests have also appreciated the hi-tea service. Certain dishes like Kway Teow goreng and fried rice are noted positively and diners have enjoyed both dinner and breakfast offerings. However, there are areas for improvement, such as the convenience of the in-house restaurant and the performance of the kitchen during busy periods. Some dishes, like the Mee Sop and nasi lemak, received negative remarks regarding their preparation. Additionally, accessibility could be enhanced as the dining facility lacks a lift for individuals with disabilities. Despite these issues, visitors to Johor are encouraged to experience the culinary offerings at Thistle Johor Bahru.
Thistle Johor Bahru, recognized for its spacious rooms, offers ample space ideal for families and groups. Numerous guests have highlighted the large and comfortable size of the rooms, providing a restful atmosphere for multiple occupants. The sea-facing rooms present picturesque views that have left visitors impressed. The beds contribute to the overall comfort, accommodating guests comfortably.
However, the reviews point out significant issues related to room maintenance and cleanliness. Guests have reported dirty carpets, smelly and stained sheets and instances of mold in the bathrooms and ceilings. The bathrooms, particularly the bathtubs, have been frequently described as dirty and plagued with slow drainage issues. Additionally, many amenities such as TV units, air conditioning and room phones require urgent repairs or updates.
Despite the rooms being spacious, the overall aged condition of the facilities detracts from the experience, suggesting a need for renovation. Small insects, faulty plumbing and poorly maintained fixtures have also been concerns for the guests. While some rooms were noted to be recent renovations, the general sentiment indicates that the hotel could benefit from a comprehensive refurbishment to enhance guest satisfaction.
Thistle Johor Bahru has garnered a mix of impressions regarding its beds. On the positive side, many guests describe the beds as cozy, super comfy and very comfortable. The king-sized beds particularly stand out, being mentioned frequently for their size and comfort. Several reviewers appreciated the comfortable mattress and big, soft beds. Pillows were often noted for being nice and fluffy, adding to the overall coziness of the sleeping arrangements.
However, there were also reports of less favorable experiences. Issues such as bedsheets with holes, stains and even bedbugs were noted by some guests. There were comments about smelly beds and bedding with some sheets not appearing to be washed. The beds and pillows periodically were described as smelly and needing an upgrade. Instances of dusty beds and blankets with burrs also detracted from the comfort for some.
Despite these issues, the majority found the beds to provide a good night's rest with consistent praise for the comfort and size of the bedding. With proper attention to cleanliness and maintenance, the potential for an excellent sleep experience at Thistle Johor Bahru could be fully realized.
Thistle Johor Bahru has garnered mixed reviews regarding cleanliness with a significant number of guests expressing dissatisfaction. The primary issues reported include dirty and moldy bathrooms, presence of cockroaches and generally unclean conditions throughout the rooms. Many reviewers highlighted specific problems such as moldy grout, stained bedspreads, smelly carpets and non-functioning drainage systems. Some rooms had lingering cigarette odors, dust on furniture and issues with air conditioning.
Guests also noted poor maintenance of hotel facilities, including smelly and dirty rooms, stained towels and furnishings in need of refurbishment. Several reported stumbling upon cockroaches, leaky toilets and inadequate housekeeping. Common areas like the pool and pond also were mentioned as being unclean.
However, there are occasional mentions of clean rooms and good housekeeping efforts, indicating that some guests had a more satisfactory experience. The consensus, however, strongly suggests that the cleanliness and maintenance levels at Thistle Johor Bahru could greatly benefit from significant improvements.
The reviews for Thistle Johor Bahru highlight a mixed yet generally positive experience with the hotel staff. Many guests commend the staff for being friendly, helpful and accommodating, frequently praising their politeness and excellent service. The reception and concierge teams often receive accolades for their hospitable demeanor and efficient service. Specific mentions of the bellboy and security staff reflect a high level of professionalism and readiness to assist.
However, not all feedback is favorable. Some guests reported unresponsive or rude behavior, particularly at the front desk and noted incidences of slow service and inattentiveness. There are repeated comments about the front office staff lacking smiles, leading to a less welcoming experience for some. Instances of ignored requests and poor treatment are also mentioned, along with concerns about staff punctuality and training.
Overall, while there are moments where service falls short, the prevailing sentiment leans towards a positive and friendly interaction with staff, making it a mixed but largely satisfactory experience.
Thistle Johor Bahru offers several highlights for guests, but one area that may require attention is its WiFi connectivity. While some visitors mentioned that the wifi worked fine and was okay, a number of reviews indicated issues such as intermittent connections and slow, unstable speeds. Guests have also noted the absence of clear instructions on how to access the WiFi ID and password, which could enhance the overall experience if addressed. Improving the WiFi service and providing detailed guidance on usage would likely increase guest satisfaction.
The gym at Thistle Johor Bahru has received mixed feedback from guests. Positive aspects include a comfortable atmosphere and adequate facilities. However, many reviews highlighted issues with the gym equipment, noting that a significant portion was either faulty or under maintenance, including weight and cardio machines. Additionally, the gym opens at 9 am and there is no toilet facility available at the gym or swimming pool. Despite some renovation efforts, the gym still has areas that require attention.
Thistle Johor Bahru offers a pool that has received mixed feedback from its guests. The pool itself is large and features separate areas for children and adults, making it an attractive spot for family fun. Many guests have appreciated the pool, noting its size and suitability for both kids and adults, as well as the pleasant views and friendly staff. For some, the poolside bar serving cold beers and offering great service was a highlight, while others enjoyed the pool almost daily during their stay, finding it a relaxing spot.
On a less favorable note, cleanliness appears to be an issue that many guests have pointed out with several mentioning dirty water, broken tiles and murky conditions. Some have observed leaves and other debris in the pool and others mentioned that the pool area needs more cleaning and maintenance. There have also been instances where the pool was closed without prior notice, disappointing guests who had looked forward to using it.
Despite the maintenance concerns, the pool's expansive area and scenic views provide a generally pleasant experience, particularly for families with children. However, potential visitors might want to check ahead to ensure that the pool is open and well-maintained during their stay.
Parking at Thistle Johor Bahru offers a mix of experiences for guests. On the positive side, parking is generally not a problem with convenient and ample parking spaces available. Many guests appreciated that parking is free and easily accessible. Additionally, there is valet parking for added convenience.
However, there are some drawbacks to be aware of. The car parks are described as old and unmaintained with one specifically noting a scary basement parking area and dim lighting. Several reviews mentioned that the lift servicing the underground car park was not operational, which posed accessibility challenges, particularly since the car park is not directly connected to the hotel via a lift.
Overall, while the parking situation is largely sufficient and functional, certain aspects like maintenance and accessibility via lifts may require attention.
Thistle Johor Bahru receives praise for its family-friendly atmosphere, offering spacious rooms that cater well to families, including those with small children. Guests frequently highlight how enjoyable the pool and bathtub are for kids, making it a good choice for a family getaway. Many mention that the overall environment is comfortable and conducive for family stays, providing a satisfying experience for families of all sizes. However, some reviews noted that the room service could use improvement. Despite this, Thistle Johor Bahru remains a strong contender for families seeking a relaxing retreat at a reasonable price point.
Thistle Johor Bahru is often perceived by guests as falling short of its five-star rating. Many reviews point out that it does not meet the high expectations typically associated with a five-star establishment. Several guests mentioned disappointment with the overall provision of services and facilities, noting that the rooms and amenities did not live up to the standard. The appearance and condition of the rooms were frequently described as old and worn-out, which detracts from the luxury experience usually associated with such a high rating. Long queues for breakfast and other service inefficiencies also contributed to the overall sentiment that the hotel is more aligned with a three-star rating rather than the advertised four to five stars. While it might have once been a reputable and lovely hotel deserving of a five-star award, current reviews suggest it is no longer at that level of excellence.
Thistle Johor Bahru demonstrates a commendable effort in catering to guests with disabilities, offering a wheelchair-friendly environment and accessible rooms. The facility boasts specifically designed features such as handicapped parking and easy access parking, ensuring convenience for guests with mobility challenges. Additionally, the overall accessibility within the hotel is noteworthy, garnering praise from visitors for its thoughtful accommodations.
Staff members are recognized for being accommodating, enhancing the experience for guests requiring additional assistance. Although there was an issue reported with the lift to the basement parking not working, the general sentiment remains positive regarding the hotel's accessibility features.
However, it's important to note an inconvenience regarding pedestrian access; there is no accessible route to the opposite road. Despite this, the hotel's commitment to providing excellent accessibility within its premises stands out in guest reviews.
The Thistle Johor Bahru features a distinct children's pool area that stands out for its spacious and dedicated sections for both children and adults, making it child-friendly and welcoming for families. The facility includes a big children’s pool, ensuring there’s ample space for young swimmers. However, some guests highlighted that the pool might not be appropriate for toddlers or younger children under five years old and it may be best suited for kids over ten. There were also remarks about cleanliness and overall suitability for very young families, suggesting occasional issues with maintenance.
The outdoor pool at Thistle Johor Bahru is highly appreciated for its spaciousness, being described as big, large and even massive. Guests frequently note the pool's cleanliness, referring to it as nice and clean with a well-maintained pool area. However, there are mixed opinions as some visitors observed the pool being dirty with dry leaves and greenish water, indicating inconsistent maintenance. The pool area is overall spacious and impressive, but it occasionally suffers from neglect. There are also comments about it not being entirely kid-friendly, which may be a consideration for families. Overall, the outdoor pool offers a generous space for relaxation, although it might require more consistent upkeep to meet all guests' expectations.
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Location
The vicinity includes a variety of restaurants, cafes and other amenities, enhancing the overall appeal. Access to major connecting roads simplifies traveling in and out of the city. Despite its central position, the location remains relatively quiet with manageable traffic. Parking is also facilitated by the hotel's spacious compound.
Whether it’s the vibrant city buzz, the ease of reaching favorite dining spots or the stunning sea views from their rooms, guests find the hotel’s location a significant advantage. This strategic placement, complemented by helpful and courteous staff, adds to the satisfactory experience at Thistle Johor Bahru.
Breakfast
However, several guests pointed out areas for improvement. Complaints were made about the limited variety and minimal selections of the breakfast buffet. Issues with the food quality, such as tasteless dishes and cold items even when placed in a bain-marie, were noted. The breakfast area was often described as cramped and too small, leading to long queues and insufficient seating. Some guests experienced poor service, insufficient food in the dining area and even cleanliness issues. There were also specific grievances such as the absence of baby-friendly meals and basic breakfast items like eggs.
Overall, while many guests find the breakfast at Thistle Johor Bahru enjoyable and satisfying, there is a clear call for improvements in variety, quality and service to better meet guest expectations.
Dinner
Rooms
However, the reviews point out significant issues related to room maintenance and cleanliness. Guests have reported dirty carpets, smelly and stained sheets and instances of mold in the bathrooms and ceilings. The bathrooms, particularly the bathtubs, have been frequently described as dirty and plagued with slow drainage issues. Additionally, many amenities such as TV units, air conditioning and room phones require urgent repairs or updates.
Despite the rooms being spacious, the overall aged condition of the facilities detracts from the experience, suggesting a need for renovation. Small insects, faulty plumbing and poorly maintained fixtures have also been concerns for the guests. While some rooms were noted to be recent renovations, the general sentiment indicates that the hotel could benefit from a comprehensive refurbishment to enhance guest satisfaction.
Beds
However, there were also reports of less favorable experiences. Issues such as bedsheets with holes, stains and even bedbugs were noted by some guests. There were comments about smelly beds and bedding with some sheets not appearing to be washed. The beds and pillows periodically were described as smelly and needing an upgrade. Instances of dusty beds and blankets with burrs also detracted from the comfort for some.
Despite these issues, the majority found the beds to provide a good night's rest with consistent praise for the comfort and size of the bedding. With proper attention to cleanliness and maintenance, the potential for an excellent sleep experience at Thistle Johor Bahru could be fully realized.
Cleanliness
Guests also noted poor maintenance of hotel facilities, including smelly and dirty rooms, stained towels and furnishings in need of refurbishment. Several reported stumbling upon cockroaches, leaky toilets and inadequate housekeeping. Common areas like the pool and pond also were mentioned as being unclean.
However, there are occasional mentions of clean rooms and good housekeeping efforts, indicating that some guests had a more satisfactory experience. The consensus, however, strongly suggests that the cleanliness and maintenance levels at Thistle Johor Bahru could greatly benefit from significant improvements.
Staff
However, not all feedback is favorable. Some guests reported unresponsive or rude behavior, particularly at the front desk and noted incidences of slow service and inattentiveness. There are repeated comments about the front office staff lacking smiles, leading to a less welcoming experience for some. Instances of ignored requests and poor treatment are also mentioned, along with concerns about staff punctuality and training.
Overall, while there are moments where service falls short, the prevailing sentiment leans towards a positive and friendly interaction with staff, making it a mixed but largely satisfactory experience.
Wi-Fi
Gym
Pool
On a less favorable note, cleanliness appears to be an issue that many guests have pointed out with several mentioning dirty water, broken tiles and murky conditions. Some have observed leaves and other debris in the pool and others mentioned that the pool area needs more cleaning and maintenance. There have also been instances where the pool was closed without prior notice, disappointing guests who had looked forward to using it.
Despite the maintenance concerns, the pool's expansive area and scenic views provide a generally pleasant experience, particularly for families with children. However, potential visitors might want to check ahead to ensure that the pool is open and well-maintained during their stay.
Parking
However, there are some drawbacks to be aware of. The car parks are described as old and unmaintained with one specifically noting a scary basement parking area and dim lighting. Several reviews mentioned that the lift servicing the underground car park was not operational, which posed accessibility challenges, particularly since the car park is not directly connected to the hotel via a lift.
Overall, while the parking situation is largely sufficient and functional, certain aspects like maintenance and accessibility via lifts may require attention.
Family
5 Star
Accessible
Staff members are recognized for being accommodating, enhancing the experience for guests requiring additional assistance. Although there was an issue reported with the lift to the basement parking not working, the general sentiment remains positive regarding the hotel's accessibility features.
However, it's important to note an inconvenience regarding pedestrian access; there is no accessible route to the opposite road. Despite this, the hotel's commitment to providing excellent accessibility within its premises stands out in guest reviews.
Children's Pool
Outdoor Pool
Yes, Thistle Johor Bahru has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Children's Pool, Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Thistle Johor Bahru.
No, Thistle Johor Bahru doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Thistle Johor Bahru.
Yes, Thistle Johor Bahru has a gym.
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