Podollan Inn & Spa Grande Prairie

This hotel offers a notable urban retreat, distinguished by its on-site spa which provides a unique and relaxing amenity for guests. It is particularly well-suited for work travelers and those in the oil and gas industry due to its convenient location and practical amenities, while couples can enjoy romantic getaways with the spa and comfortable accommodations. Families also find the spacious rooms and included breakfast beneficial for their stays. Guests frequently commend the hotel's comfortable beds and the exceptional quality of the included breakfast. However, many note that the hotel's furnishings and overall appearance are dated and in need of significant renovation. To enhance your experience, it is advisable to confirm the condition of your room upon arrival and to take full advantage of the highly praised breakfast service.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a highly regarded on-site spa, which many guests describe as a rare and welcome bonus, offering a relaxing and well-kept environment, with some enjoying couples massages. The underground parking is a significant advantage, particularly during winter, providing sheltered and convenient access, though some guests have noted it can be busy or have limited space. Feedback on the fitness center is less positive, with many describing it as small, poorly equipped, and lacking basic amenities like towels, sometimes requiring guests to use an off-site gym. The elevators are a frequent point of concern, often described as noisy, feeling unstable, or being out of service. While Wi-Fi is available, guest experiences are mixed, with some finding it fast and stable, while others report it being slow, unreliable, or frequently dropping connection.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is notably mixed. While some guests report their rooms to be clean and comfortable, others express significant concerns, detailing issues such as dirty walls, stained carpets, mold around showers, and even unhygienic bedding. Many reviews consistently highlight that the rooms and furnishings are dated and show considerable wear and tear, with peeling paint, chipped surfaces, and signs of water damage. The beds receive varied comments; many find them comfortable, but a substantial number of guests report them as worn out, saggy, or uncomfortable. Noise levels are also a point of contention; some rooms are described as quiet and well-insulated, while others experience significant disturbance from highway traffic, hallway noise, or other guests. Room amenities like TVs are often noted as small or outdated, and bathrooms are frequently criticized for dark lighting, small or skimpy towels, and occasional maintenance issues like broken drains or loose fixtures.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, particularly the included breakfast. Guests consistently praise the breakfast as excellent, describing it as a standout feature that is often made-to-order with hot choices, fresh fruit, and tasty pancakes, significantly surpassing typical continental offerings. While some note that the breakfast is no longer a buffet and portions can be small, the overall quality and service are highly commended. The on-site restaurant, Jax Grill & Lounge, is also well-regarded for its delicious food and good service, with specific dishes like butter chicken and seafood platters receiving positive mentions. Some guests find the restaurant's prices a bit high or note that it has limited operating hours, but the quality of the meals generally meets expectations.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is widely considered convenient and accessible, placing guests within easy reach of various attractions, shopping centers, and essential services. Its position on major roads facilitates easy access for travelers. The availability of parking, including the highly valued underground parking, is a significant benefit, especially during adverse weather conditions, though some guests have noted that the lot can be busy or challenging to navigate with larger vehicles. The hotel's proximity to amenities and its central placement make it a practical choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking convenience in the area.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests highlight the positive interactions with front desk personnel, describing them as welcoming, polite, and efficient during check-in and check-out processes. The restaurant staff are also frequently commended for their excellent service and pleasant demeanor. While most experiences with staff are positive, some guests have reported issues with problem resolution, particularly concerning significant room cleanliness problems or booking discrepancies, where responses were perceived as unhelpful or lacking adequate apology. Housekeeping service receives mixed reviews, with some guests noting inconsistencies in towel replenishment or amenity restocking.

Additional Information
The hotel has a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by guests traveling with animals, though some find the nightly pet fee to be quite high. Guests should be aware of the hotel's deposit policy, which requires a credit card or a substantial cash deposit, and some have reported issues with the flexibility or timely return of these funds. There have been instances where the hotel's advertised rewards program benefits, such as Aeroplan points, were not honored as expected, leading to guest frustration. The hotel is noted as a popular choice for workers in the oil and gas industry, which can sometimes lead to early morning noise from departing vehicles.