What’s it like?
Friendly, well-situated and efficient. Port Elizabeth is known as the ‘friendly city’ and the hotel staff at the Courtyard go out of their way to do justice to that. From the moment I stepped inside, I was made to feel at home and from there on, the staff didn’t disappoint with their service.
Where is it?
Along Port Elizabeth’s beachfront and a short distance from the Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World. The hotel is ideally situated for a quick dip in the Indian Ocean or a relaxing walk along the promenade. It’s also just a few minute’s drive from both the airport and the city centre. If leisure or post-work drinks is what you’re after, it’s a short walk away from a number of bars and restaurants, where you can sip cocktails overlooking the sea or indulge in a business lunch or two. Further to that, the Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World offers a variety of shops, restaurants, entertainment and a casino. Access is free of charge and there is a 24-hour shuttle service to and from the hotel.
Room and Facilities
The complex comprises 91 units, consisting of studio rooms and one and two-bedroom suites. Each room has a spacious en suite bathroom, as well as a private balcony overlooking the ocean. The beds are comfortable and a notable feature is the Chrysalis Egyptian cotton bedding, ensuring a good night’s rest. Each room comes standard with air-conditioning and heating, an electronic safe, telephone, satellite television, modem connection and Wi-Fi. There is also a kitchen facility with microwave, fridge, kettle, cutlery, crockery and glassware in every room. The hotel provides a complimentary self-serve laundrette, as well as dry cleaning services available on request.
Restaurants & Bars
The hotel dining room offers an extensive self-serve breakfast, which is served between 06h00 and 10h00 on weekdays and between 07h00 and 11h00 on weekends and public holidays. A nice touch is the complimentary drinks and snacks served between 17h00 and 19h00 every evening in the lounge. Here, hotel staff mingle with guests for a friendly chat or to answer any queries. The hotel is surrounded by some of Port Elizabeth’s most up-market restaurants and they have an arrangement by which hotel guests can charge their bills to their room accounts. The restaurants also provide room service.
Business and Meeting Facilities
Conferencing at the hotel has been given a lot of thought with three facilities to choose from. The first is set up in cinema style and can accommodate 50 people. The second seats 10 people around a conference table and the third option is ideal for events and year-end functions, catering for 60 people. Conference facilities available include screen, data projector, television, DVD, power points, white board, flip-chart, stationery, water, mints and juices. Meals can be arranged through the hotel, as part of the package. There is also a business office with printers and stationery available for use.
Leisure Facilities
Overlooking the ocean is a pool and lounging area situated in front of a wrap-around veranda with endless sea views. There is also a small gym with television and refreshments available, in case you’re looking to relieve some pent-up work tension.
Verdict
Falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves cannot be beaten and will ensure a good night’s rest, whether you wake up needing to tackle your next business meeting or enjoy the sights and sounds of Port Elizabeth. This four-star hotel is all about attention to detail and ensuring that your stay is as comfortable as possible. This was further emphasised when, upon checking out, I received a complimentary newspaper and muffin for the road. A nice touch and a fitting end to an enjoyable stay.
Contact
Address: Corner, Lodge and Beach Roads, Summerstrand
Contact: +27 41-5834655, citylodge.co.za/cy4.php
Debbie Windsor