Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square

Basic services. Serious room issues. For example, we could hear and smell activities in neighboring bathrooms.

The Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square offers a sophisticated contemporary stylishness that sets it apart from the other hotels. As I entered the hotel, I enjoyed the more intimate, personal feel of the hotel. At the same time, I could see that it would appeal to not only a younger customer but also to the mature customer as well. The hotel is one to definitely consider when looking to stay in Washington DC.

Room was good and clean and the bathroom a nice size with separate shower. Staff at check-in were friendly and helpful. Reported faults with our coffee machine and telephone. Someone looked at the phone and said he would speak to his supervisor and that was the last we saw of him. The coffee machine remained unattended for the entire duration including not even removing/washing the cup used when trying to get it to work. Glasses used in the room were left dirty or in another case left in the corridor with plates for a day and a half. Wi-fi throws you out daily and we were unable to login as a guest. Restaurant was good and had excellent service in the bar. Location is ideal for sightseeing.

Two stars for the great location and most staff I encountered were nice, but this is NOT a 5-star hotel by anyone's standards. The towels are sparse and threadbare, the bed, much too soft (and my back hurt every morning), parking cost $65/day (!) and the room and hotel, itself, dark and dated. Some problems with the room and extra charges assessed by another staff member, were remedied by the hotel manager. Even so, I would much rather stay elsewhere if seeking a 5-star experience. If half the price, I would still find the rooms and hotel kind of depressing.