The Grand Hotel Excelsior

Hotel location is exceptional - walking distance to bus garage where you can use public transport to connect to various towns. I had very high expectations of the hotel particularly due to the 5* rating but I was very disappointed as it was more a 3-star hotel for sure. The reception service was great on arrival with a drink and concierge service, but let down by the 4-hr lack of notice that our room was ready as we had arrived early before the official check-in time. We did let them know to either text us or find us in the lounge opposite reception but this was never to be. The room view was great, but the facilities not what you expect in a 5* establishment with the bathroom being the worst i.e. shower curtain, basic toiletry brands, laundry basket, a stool, etc - was rather taken back by it all. The service in the restaurant by reception was 'touch and go' and although it was table service, one had to wait for at least 20mins before being served, which was rather bizarre especially when there were multiple staff walking up and down. Anyhow, we pointed this out and the rest of our service was improved following that which a was bit too much then as it didn't come across as "naturally" and became rather off-putting. The hotel has the potential to be a 5* star establishment, but somehow it seems that it is too 'big' to be managed to a high standard. The furnishings across the hotel don't feel very streamlined and comes across as clutter although it could be expensive. It needs an interior designer to refurbish the whole place and obtain that continuity in decor across the hotel. The live music comes across rather like a 'very cheap holiday' and of a 'karaoke' style as it is too loud -the sound system is non existent so the music is concentrated in one area which means it is loud and not relaxing at all. We had to leave for our rooms a few times for some peace and quiet there. The existence of the shuttle bus in to Valletta is rather puzzling as it runs only twice a day i.e. 10am and 6pm and last return is 6.15pm but valletta is walking distance from hotel. It takes no more than 10mins to walk, with high heels on, there as we timed this so not sure what value it adds for sure. For the spa, the indoor pool was great and very clean however, I was very disappointed that there was a fee to pay to use the sauna and steam room for a day in a 5* hotel- really? To make matters worse, the 'day' means that it has to fall within the opening times of the spa and not valid from the time of purchase. Overall, I believe there is more to be done to make this hotel a TRUE 5* establishment as it surely isn't as it currently stands for sure. It felt like a "cheap holiday hotel" as depicted in the media as it lacked the elegance I was hoping for!

We had an excellent table situated by the window enjoying both the pool area and harbour views. The buffet is lavish, varied and delicious. Great choice of starters, soups, pasta, Asian treats, a larger variety of sushi platters, fresh fish display, carvery corner, International main course, mini delicacies, a selection of condiments, local and International cheeses and last by not least the mouthwatering decorative desserts. The staff were all very friendly and helpful. Looking forward to going again in the very near future.