Property: Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest
Booked: King Guestroom
Rate: LEI305 or AUD98
Received: Junior Suite
Room was booked for two but there were 3 of us checking-in at 7am, been upgraded to J.Suite on 2nd floor. Room was not ready, staff apologises and allocated the same room type on the 5th floor with much better views. "You can all have breakfast in the lounge located on your floor or in the restaurant. Would you like housekeeping to arrange the sofa bed?" That was so generous! Although the booking was clearly for 2 only (extra person cost more) she didn't let me ask for anything but offered all in advance, that's how customer service should be!
At breakfast we received special amenities to the table (three glasses of energiser juice and their signature muesli, both not offered as part of the buffet). We also got personalised service, our waiter was in charge of the whole section but basically ignored everyone else while giving us all the attention. I assume they treat all diamonds this way, it felt more of Conrad breakfast service. The buffet selection was very good, both in quality and quantity.
Back to room, it was decent size but the bathroom too small and needs to be refurbished. I've noticed housekeeping tripled all bathroom amenities and left a plate with Cozonac and small bottle of Tuica (tradition Romanian cake and spirit) on the table, nice touch!
Evening canapés in the lounge were mix of Romanian dishes, cooked prawns and sushi. Lounge was not busy and by 8:30 when staff were about to clear out there were only us and two couples left. Someone came to ask if we would like to have any more food and I said we will just grab last drink but the guy said he will keep all drinks out until they close down so no rush. If only all hilton lounges were that generous...