Unbelievable Lagos Luxury: Presken Hotel & Suites (Alade) Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This is going to be a real review of Presken Hotel & Suites (Alade), Lagos. Forget the glossy brochures – we're going raw. And trust me, after spending a week there, I've got opinions. This is my messy, honest, and hopefully helpful take on this Lagos luxury spot.
First Impressions: The "Wow, But…?" Factor
Right, so the name. "Unbelievable Lagos Luxury"? Ambitious. The hotel doesn't disappoint, mostly. The lobby is all gleaming marble and towering ceilings – genuinely impressive. But the "Unbelievable"? Well, it's more like "Believable, with a few Nigerian quirks." This is the good and the bad, the beautiful and… the slightly less beautiful, rolled into one.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag
Okay, let's get practical. Accessibility is key. They claim to have Facilities for disabled guests. I didn’t personally need these, but I did see an elevator, which is always a win for a large hotel like this. But I also did find a few areas - like some restaurant entrances - that could pose a bit of a challenge. This is Lagos, after all. Things are…evolving. I’d recommend contacting them directly to confirm your specific needs are met. Wheelchair accessible is definitely a question mark.
Rooms & Comfort: The Good, the Bad, and the Fridge Full of… Stuff
My room? Lovely! Air conditioning that actually worked (a godsend in Lagos humidity!), a comfy bed, and blackout curtains – important when you're trying to sleep after a long, hot day. Loved the free Wi-Fi in all rooms! – a lifesaver. The mini-bar… well, let's just say it was stocked. And by stocked, I mean everything was overpriced as hell. But, hey, options, right? Also, that in-room safe box was a relief - peace of mind is priceless. Honestly, it's the little things – like a strong shower and decent towels – that really matter. The slippers they provided were a nice touch. I also found myself really appreciating the desk, it provides a good spot to get work done.
Cleanliness & Safety: Reassurance, Not Perfection
This is where Presken earns some serious points. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. Rooms sanitized between stays? Double-check. Seeing their commitment to the hygiene certification definitely made me feel safer, especially given the current global situation. The staff trained in safety protocol, were all taking it very seriously. The hand sanitizer stations were everywhere. I felt confident, though, not completely relaxed. This is not to say, everything was perfect. Like, I saw a guy sweeping the hall without a mask once. Small things like that left me questioning a bit, really. There was a doctor/nurse on call – thank goodness! And the fire extinguisher and smoke alarms in the room, well, let’s just say they added a layer of assurance to my already slightly overwrought mind.
Dining & Drinking: A Culinary Adventure (Mostly Good)
Okay, let's face it, it’s Lagos – the food better be good. And at Presken, it mostly was. Restaurants galore! The breakfast [buffet] was epic – a vast spread with everything from your average Western breakfast to spicy Asian breakfast options. Loved the coffee/tea in restaurant, it was absolutely a necessity. The desserts in restaurant were the bomb. The poolside bar was a lifesaver during the crazy Lagos heat. Sipping a cold cocktail while the sun sets? Chef's kiss. The A la carte in restaurant options were generally delicious, the International cuisine in restaurant menu was a bit of a mixed bag, though. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was really worth checking out. The salad in restaurant was superb and the soup in restaurant was great to start with. There's even a vegetarian restaurant! I’m no vegetarian, but I was impressed. The room service [24-hour] was a godsend after a long day exploring, though the delivery times varied wildly, from "lightning-fast" to "fashionably late."
A Specific Dining Story: The Curry Conundrum
One evening, I decided to try the Indian curry. I'm a sucker for a good curry. The ambiance was perfect - low lighting, soft music, the works. The curry?… Let's just say it was… spicy. Like, "tears streaming down my face, needing three bottles of water and a cold towel" spicy. I nearly called the doctor/nurse on call in distress! But, you know what? It was also delicious. A testament to the chef's passion. I mean, a truly unforgettable experience.
Spa & Relaxation: Ahhh… Maybe
The spa, the pool with view, the sauna, the steamroom. They all sound amazing, right? Well, they were amazing… when they were open. And the opening times, as with other things, were… flexible. A bit of a frustrating experience. I’m not going to lie. But, if you catch them at the right time, the massage is worth the wait. I got a body scrub, which was heavenly. They do have a fitness center/gym, I didn’t spend much time there, but the equipment looked pretty decent. They also offer a foot bath if you're looking to relax. They clearly offer a strong emphasis on relaxation.
Services & Conveniences: A Mixed Bag
Concierge was helpful. The dry cleaning was efficient. The daily housekeeping was consistent. The luggage storage was useful. The currency exchange was handy. But the convenience store was more like a "slightly overpriced shop." Car park [free of charge] was great. Airport transfer nice. The staff were, in general, lovely and helpful. They have meeting/banquet facilities, for those who need them. Doorman was a great touch. Contactless check-in/out was easy.
Things To Do & Getting Around: Lagos Life
Presken is pretty well-located. Taxi service is easy. The car park [on-site] is a plus – navigating Lagos traffic is a sport in itself. You're close to… well, things. And the airport transfer makes getting there and away a breeze.
For the Kids: Family Friendly? (Probably….)
I didn’t have kids with me, but they appear to offer babysitting service and have kids facilities. So, it appears to be family/child friendly.
The Weird & Wonderful: The Quirks of Nigeria
This is what makes traveling in Nigeria so special. From the occasional power outage (they have a generator), to the friendly staff who go above and beyond, to the sheer, unadulterated chaos of Lagos itself – it's an experience. Some of the room decorations were… interesting. And I found an essential condiment in my room. They also have a shrine.
The Bottom Line: Should you go?
Yes. Absolutely. Presken Hotel & Suites is a solid choice. It's not perfect, but that's what makes it real. It's a taste of Lagos luxury with a side of Nigerian charm. It’s a good base for exploring the city. Be prepared for some "African time," a few minor hiccups, and a whole lot of character.
Unbelievable Lagos Luxury: Presken Hotel & Suites (Alade) – The Offer You Can't Refuse!
Stop Dreaming, Start Living! Experience the Essence of Lagos at Presken Hotel & Suites!
Forget generic hotel stays. Escape to the heart of Lagos and immerse yourself in a world of comfort, convenience, and unforgettable experiences. At Presken Hotel & Suites (Alade), we offer a unique blend of luxury and authentic Nigerian hospitality.
Here's what awaits you:
- Unwind in Style: Sink into plush beds, enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi, and experience the ultimate in room comfort.
- Savor Culinary Delights: From authentic Asian dishes to international favorites, our diverse restaurants and bars cater to every palate.
- Recharge and Revitalize: Pamper yourself at our spa, take a dip in our refreshing pool, or hit the gym to energise your day.
- Stay Safe & Secure: Rest easy knowing we prioritize your safety with stringent cleaning protocols and 24/7 security.
- Convenience at Your Fingertips: From easy airport transfers to attentive concierge services, we're dedicated to making your stay seamless.
But wait, there's more!
Limited-Time Offer: Book your stay at Presken Hotel & Suites (Alade) now and receive a complimentary bottle of local wine, perfect for enjoying on your private balcony as you soak in the vibrant Lagos atmosphere.
**Don't miss this opportunity to experience the real Lagos! Book your escape to Pres
Uncover the Secrets of Vajra Heritage Bangalore: A Hidden Gem Revealed!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your average TripAdvisor itinerary. This is the PRESKEN Hotel and Suites (Alade) Lagos survival guide according to yours truly, a seasoned traveler with a healthy dose of anxiety and a penchant for accidental adventure. Prepare for the glorious mess that is me:
Day 1: Arrival, Arrival, ARRIVAL & The Great AC Gauntlet
10:00 AM: Fly in. Let the chaos begin! Lagos traffic, as always, is a beast. Negotiated a slightly inflated price with the taxi driver. Swallowed my pride and kept my "I'm-a-tough-traveler" face on. Arrived at Presken, and honestly, the entrance is pretty sleek. Not as "luxe" as the website implied, but hey, clean is good.
11:00 AM: Check-in. Lady at the desk was a gem, super friendly. Room key in hand, I mentally prepared for the real test: the air conditioning. I've had AC battles that would make a Viking warrior weep.
11:30 AM: Room exploration. Okay, the room itself is decent. Clean sheets, a halfway decent view of… a building. No complaints. Yet. The AC… well, it hums. A low, ominous hum. I cautiously flicked the switch. Nothing. Panic. Eventually, after some button mashing and a fervent prayer to the AC Gods, it sputtered to life. A weak, wheezing life. The battle of the AC had begun.
12:30 PM: Lunch: Found the hotel restaurant. Let's be honest, it's a little beige. Ordered Chicken and chips. The chicken was… well, let's just say it had a life before. The chips were the best part, surprisingly well seasoned. Ate slowly, bracing myself for the next AC challenge.
2:00 PM: The Great Nap (and the AC drama continues): Tried to nap but the AC was cycling on and off. Decided to have a cold bath instead, to cool down.
4:00 PM: Exploratory wander. Decided to ditch the stuffy hotel and ventured out to explore the area. Found a small store to buy a sim card. Also found a lot of traffic, loud music and people. Lagos is a sensory overload in the best way.
6:00 PM: Back at the hotel, and the AC is still, on-and-off, the bane of my existence and all my sleep-deprived dreams. I'm pretty sure I can hear it taunting me. Maybe it's time to complain. Maybe I'm just crazy.
7:00 PM: Ordered room service. This time, the food was decent. It wasn't amazing, but it filled my stomach and got me ready for bed.
8:00 PM: Finally, sleep. Woke up a couple of times during the night to make sure the aircon was working.
Day 2: Unbelievable Market Chaos and Food Adventures (and More AC Shenanigans)
9:00 AM: Breakfast. Pancakes. Sweet, fluffy, and the best part of the morning so far. The waiter was super helpful.
10:00 AM: Taxi to a local market. The smell hits you first. A glorious, pungent mix of spices, fish, and… well, everything. It's an assault on the senses in the best way. Negotiating prices is a sport, a dance, a battle of wits. I think I got ripped off on the plantains, but hey, at least I got a story.
1:00 PM: Lunch. Tried "Suya" from a street vendor. Oh. My. God. The spice! The smoky flavor! It was a near-religious experience. It’s probably not the cleanest place to eat, but I'll risk it.
2:00 PM: Napping and dealing with the air conditioning. Same old, same old.
4:00 PM: Back to the market to get some souvenirs. Found a beautiful handmade bag. Happy.
7:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel. The Nigerian Jollof rice was pretty good, not the best I've had, but still good.
8:00 PM: Time to sleep. Praying the AC behaves.
Day 3: The Great Departure (and the AC’s Final Act?)
9:00 AM: Breakfast. The food is starting to get old. At least the coffee is decent.
10:00 AM: Tried to check out. The AC, in its final act of defiance, gave up the ghost entirely. I just gave up.
11:00 AM: Headed back to the airport. Another crazy ride.
1:00 PM: Goodbye, Lagos. Goodbye, Presken Hotel. Goodbye, AC. I'm exhausted, a little sunburnt, and smelling faintly of market spices. But I'm also utterly, completely, and wonderfully alive.
Final Verdict on Presken:
Would I stay there again? Maybe. It's not perfect. The AC… ugh. But it was clean, the staff were friendly, and the location was decent. And hey, the adventures I had outside the hotel made it worth the while. Lagos is chaotic, loud, and overwhelming, but it’s also a place that burrows its way into your soul.
Also, remember:
- Bargain! Everything is negotiable.
- Hydrate! The sun is relentless.
- Be prepared for anything. Seriously.
- Embrace the chaos. It's part of the fun.
- And for the love of all that is holy, pack a portable fan. Just in case.
Welcome (or Beware!) to the Chaos: Presken Hotel & Suites (Alade) FAQ – Your Guide to… Well, Everything!
Okay, honestly, is this place *actually* luxurious? I'm seeing "Luxury" and "Lagos" and... I'm skeptical.
Alright, buckle up Buttercup. "Luxury" in Lagos is a… relative term. Presken (Alade) *tries*. It's certainly got the fancy-ish lobby with the chandelier that clearly hasn't seen a good dusting in, oh, a decade. The rooms? Some are legitimately nice. I stayed in one once, and it felt like a legit upgrade from my usual "mosquito net and a leaky tap" existence. But then… well, things happen. Think "aspirational luxury" that occasionally trips over its own ambitions. One time, the air con crapped out in my room at 3 AM. In Lagos. Need I say more? Sweating through the night, I felt like I was auditioning for a remake of "The Inferno" starring Yours Truly. So, yes, *try* is the operative word. Plan for it to be a rollercoaster ride, and you might just enjoy the view (when the AC works!).
The location. Is it actually *safe* in that Alade area?
Look, Lagos is Lagos. Safety is always a *thing*. Alade is… not the roughest part of town, but definitely keep your wits about you. I’d describe it as "vigilantly aware." The hotel itself has security, which is good. They've got those guys in the vaguely military-esque uniforms (which always makes me slightly nervous, I'm lying, it always makes me *very* nervous). I wouldn't wander around flashing Rolexes at 2 AM, you know? Just… be sensible. Ask the hotel staff for advice on getting around. They're usually pretty helpful (at least when the power's on). Pro-tip: Don't be afraid to haggle with taxi drivers. They *will* try to overcharge tourists. It's practically a national sport.
The food! What's the grub like in the hotel restaurant? Good, bad, or "I need something, *anything* to eat?"
Ah, the food. Okay, the food is… a mixed bag. The breakfast buffet (if you're lucky enough to *find* it open) is a staple. Eggs cooked however you like them, though sometimes the cook seems to be having an existential crisis about the very *nature* of omelets. Some days it's a masterpiece. Other days… well, let's just say I've seen better omelets at midnight from a starving student on a diet of instant noodles. They do a decent jollof rice, though! Seriously, the jollof is a lifesaver, especially after a long, sweaty day. Avoid the continental options. Trust me on this one. Stick to the local fare and you'll be alright. And always, *always* ask about the freshness. You don't want to learn the hard way. My stomach can vouch for that. (It's still recovering from the last incident I had).
Is the Wi-Fi any good? Because, you know, the modern world.
Ah, the Wi-Fi. Prepare yourself. Prepare yourself to be patient. Prepare yourself to curse silently (or not so silently, depending on your blood pressure) at the gods of connectivity. The Wi-Fi exists. Sometimes. It's like it's a shy little creature that hides when you need it most. Expect dropouts. Expect it to disappear completely during important video calls. Expect to tether to your phone, which, let's be honest, is often faster. It's… a challenge. Basically, plan for digital detox if your job requires consistent internet. Or, embrace the chaos and start writing those long-lost vacation journals!
About the staff… Are they helpful? Friendly? Or just… there?
The staff? A mixed bag, again! Generally, they're *very* helpful. The ones that are great are *genuinely* great. They will try to go out of their way to fix things, get you what you need, and generally make you feel welcome. And then… you get the ones who are just...there. Tired. Maybe a bit jaded by the daily grind of Lagos life. But here's the thing: be nice to them. A little kindness goes a long way. A friendly smile, a thank you, some small talk… It can work wonders. I’ve found that treating them with respect usually unlocks the best of the staff. I’ve had some fantastic conversations with the bellhops, the cleaning staff – seriously, they’ve had some amazing life stories. Don't be shy.
What are the rooms *really* like? Be honest!
Okay, the rooms. Let's get down to brass tacks. Some are genuinely quite nice, like I said. Think comfy beds, a decent (usually) bathroom, and maybe even a balcony if you're lucky. Others? Well, let's just say they've aged a little less gracefully. You might encounter dodgy plumbing. The air conditioning might be playing games. You could discover, as happened to me once, that there's a family of ants colonizing the bathroom. Yes. Ants. But here's a pro-tip: when you check in, *inspect the room*. And if something's not right, don't be afraid to ask for another one. They *usually* will accommodate you. And bring some bug spray. Just in case. Trust me.
Are there any hidden fees or things I should watch out for?
Ah, the hidden fees. The bane of my existence. Always, *always* ask about everything upfront. Seriously. Extra charges can pop up, especially on the mini-bar (which may or may not be working) or if you order room service (which will take about an hour to arrive). Double-check your bill before you leave. I once got charged for a phone call I *definitely* didn't make – and it took a small war to get the charges removed. Just be vigilant. Ask a lot of questions. And don't be afraid to politely push back if something doesn't seem right. It's called getting a good deal, my friend.
Okay, let’s say everything goes wrong. What's the *worst* thing that could happen to me at Presken?
The *worst*? Hmm… besides the aforementioned ant invasion? Probably the combination of the awful Wi-Fi, the power going out (which is a common occurrence in Lagos, let's be honest), the air con dying, and then discovering thatOcean View Inn
