Stunning grounds, large, comfortable rooms, great location. I was thrilled to arrive. But the staff need better training. 2 issues—1 minor and common, 1 major and shocking—spoiled my stay.
Minor—the breakfast area staff are TOO aggressive about taking away plates. Every 3 minutes someone tried to take my half-finished plate and coffee. Let a man enjoy his breakfast in peace without being rushed!
Major—checkout was AWFUL! 5 staff behind the desk, only me and 1 other couple in front of the desk, but it took nearly 30 minutes. When I presented my door bracelet, and said "checking out," the staff looked at me blankly. I was ignored for 10 minutes. They finally got around to it, another 10 minutes later they came with a US$2 bill for tourist tax. (I paid $180 for the night, but OK...I gave 5,000 shillings) "Are we done?" "we check the room now." "Just now?!!" 20 minutes into it, I tried to leave (had a boat trip departure for my 50th birthday that was NOT flexible due to the tides).
They LITERALLY held me captive. The security guard seized my bag from me and protected the gate, crying that he would be fired if he let me out. Shocking! I said: "look if you want anything at all from me, simply ask for it and I will gladly give whatever it is, but I MUST leave NOW" but they wouldn't budge until I made an ugly scene. I arrived 15 minutes late to my destination and was lucky to board the boat.
Sum: More "Pole Pole" needed in the dining area, and far LESS needed at checkout.