Marriott Properties in Kobe

The English proficiency of the local staff is appallingly bad. I went to drop off my luggage and was told I couldn't check-in yet as it was too early. After finally checking in, I discovered my room was right next to the elevator. When booking, I had specifically requested a room away from the elevator, quiet, and non-smoking. It's my fault for not reconfirming with them, so I had to drag my luggage back to the front desk to change rooms. The new room was still on the street side, right next to the elevated highway, and directly opposite Kobe Station – you can imagine how noisy it was. This is an old hotel that's been renovated. You don't need a key card for any of the elevators, so female travelers staying alone should definitely be mindful of their safety. The quality of the renovation can only be described with a 'heh,' the details are just dreadful. Forget the small details, the door wouldn't even close automatically; you had to manually push and pull it to make sure it latched properly. The mini-bar light switch had an intensely bright light that was dazzling at night. Amenities weren't replenished on the second day, not even the drinking water. The staff passage, which also serves as a fire escape, was left wide open until 8 PM, indicating a lapse in safety management. The water pressure and temperature in the shower were unstable – hot one moment, cold the next, and then the water flow would suddenly diminish. I don't even want to comment on the breakfast; it felt worse than what you'd get at a slightly better budget hotel. The only made-to-order hot dish was an omelet. Every single cup was endlessly covered in limescale and scratches.

Great location, just opposite to the Kobe station. We can walk from the station to the hotel by underground shopping walk. It's especially good during the rain that we don't have to get wet. Also there's a shopping complex and harbour land for those who come with kids. 2 super market and mall at the station. 10-15 minutes walk to Kobe tower or to overlook the Kobe port. 20 minutes or so to go to Taira no Kiyomori statue. The room is a bit old, but big enough for us to open luggages. Bathroom has amenities which we don't need to ask for like other hotel. Overall I think it's worth money. If I have a chance, I will come and stay again.