Background
Established in 1988, the City Lodge was the first of the group’s offerings to find a home in Port Elizabeth, which now also boast two Road Lodges, a Town Lodge and a Courtyard Hotel. With ratings from 1-star through to 4-star and with all four offerings situated a stone’s throw from each other, there are plenty of options to suit your budget. All the hotels are computer-linked for onward reservations, making the City Lodge Group a convenient choice for a stay in PE.
Where is it?
The 3-star City Lodge is adjacent to the Town Lodge and Courtyard Hotel, and just a few minutes’ drive from both the airport and the city centre. It is situated across the road from the beachfront and within walking distance of the Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, entertainment and a casino. Access to the Boardwalk is free of charge and there is a 24-hour hotel shuttle service.
What’s it like?
Having been around for over 20 years, the refurbishment a couple of years ago was much needed, and the hotel is now in good condition. That refurbishment included the addition of a boardroom and terrace overlooking the bay.
Room and Facilities
There are 147 rooms consisting of family rooms and standard rooms, but they are not big by any means. The family rooms include a queen-size bed and sleeper couch, whilst the standard rooms have twin ¾ beds. Each room has an en-suite bathroom with separate bath and shower. There are the standard room features, in the form of tea and coffee-making facilities, air-conditioning, electronic safe, telephone, flat-screen TV with selected satellite channels, and Wi-Fi access that is complimentary for the first 15 minutes. The hotel outsources its laundry service, and that can be arranged through reception.
Restaurant and Bar
The hotel dining room offers an extensive buffet breakfast – Full English or Continental – which is served between 06h30 and 09h00 on weekdays, and 07h00 and 10h00 on weekends and public holidays. The hotel bar is open daily from 15h00 to 23h00 and there’s an in-house coffee shop open between 12h00 and 22h00, which also serves light meals. The hotel is surrounded by upmarket restaurants, some of which offer room service and free delivery to the hotel. Menus are available in the rooms.
Business Facilities
There is one conference room which overlooks the sea and can cater for 12 people. It includes a screen, data projector, TV, DVD, white board, flip-chart, stationery, water, mints and juices. Coffee, tea and muffins, or even meals can be arranged through the hotel. There is also a guest services terminal which includes access to the Internet, a printer and stationery. Internet vouchers can be purchased, but there is 15 minutes’ complimentary Wi-Fi in the rooms and reception area. As all the City Lodge Group hotels are situated in close proximity to each other, you are also able to make use of the other properties’ conference facilities. So, there’s access to a room set up in cinema style accommodating 50 people, and a room ideal for events and year-end functions catering for 60 people.
Leisure Facilities
An inviting swimming pool and lounging area provides an alternative to the beach. There is also a small gym with TV, whilst the local Virgin Active gym is a few minutes away.
Verdict
A property with an excellent location, relaxing setting on the beachfront, great basics and superb service. A great option if in PE on business.
Contact
Tel: +27 41 584 0322
Website: citylodge.co.za