Guest User
September 22, 2024
This was my 4th visit to Turkey, and unfortunately, my stay at the Hilton DoubleTree in Sanliurfa was the most uncomfortable I’ve ever experienced in the country. I was given an “upgraded” room, but this meant direct sunlight was pouring in during the afternoon, making the room unbearably hot. The air conditioning couldn’t keep up, so the room was stifling for most of the day. Communication with the staff was another challenge. Aside from one kind girl at check-in, the staff did not speak English, which isn’t usually an issue for me. I’ve traveled to 59 countries and can easily communicate with hand signals or basic phrases, but the staff insisted on using Google Translate, making the interactions awkward and difficult. The outdoor patio was lovely and shaded, but it was filled with smoke, creating a persistent cloud over the entire area, which made it unenjoyable for a non-smoker. Inside, the reception area has a beautiful spot to sit, but it’s more for the coffee bar. When I tried to order a drink and sit there, it caused a lot of confusion. There is no dedicated bar area, which I understand given the local culture, but the lack of clarity made it difficult. Dinner was the most uncomfortable experience. The hostess just stared at me when I asked for a table, and the server seemed to struggle with the payment system. There were multiple pricing issues, and when I tried to charge it to my room, there was another price discrepancy. It seemed like they were unaccustomed to single travelers, and the entire interaction was awkward. I chose the Hilton because of the excellent reviews and the convenience of having a hotel restaurant/bar as a single female traveler. Unfortunately, the service didn’t align with the standards I’ve come to expect from Hilton properties. In hindsight, I wish I had picked a more authentic, charming hotel that would have provided a more comfortable and personalized experience.