I stayed at Aylesbury Travelodge for four nights and unfortunately had a very disappointing experience. The hotel was extremely hot with no air conditioning, and for a family room we were only given one small table fan.
The room key constantly failed. On the first day, I had to go to reception four times before a staff member came to open the door with their own key. The problem continued throughout my stay, and many other guests seemed to be experiencing the same issue.
The biggest concern was the fire alarm. There was no announcement that fire alarm testing would be taking place. The alarm went off while I was in the bath, forcing me and my children to evacuate immediately. We used the stairs as instructed in a fire emergency rules, but became trapped because the exit door would not open. We waited around 15 minutes before a member of staff came to let us out, after I a have called the reception few times before, a staff member showed up.
A staff member apologised and said that when they carry out fire alarm testing, people usually do not leave their rooms. However, that is not the point. Whether guests choose to evacuate or not, the hotel should always announce that fire alarm testing is taking place so everyone knows it is only a test. Clear communication about fire safety is essential.
Overall, this was a stressful and disappointing stay. I expected much better communication, working room access, and proper safety procedures.