I thought that having paid a premium price for the better rooms would make the stay at a renowned resort enjoyable. However, sad to say, it was disappointing.

First, the check-in was a flop. My reservation couldn't be found even after 15-20 minutes of waiting at the counter. The staff couldn't offer an explanation as to why it took so long.

The room was also a mess. I found a half bottle of Shiraz and half-open chips in the fridge. Obviously, the housekeeping crew wasn't thorough in their job. I even found cobwebs hanging from the ceiling of my rooftop jacuzzi. The room also had a musky smell.

The next disappointment was the clueless reception. I asked for directions to the Italian il Lido restaurant located at the other end of Sentosa. But the man manning the counter was totally clueless. Fortunately, his colleague helped him out, saving him from further embarrassment.

I have put up in many overseas hotels before. Some have separate check-ins for guests staying in their premium rooms. The staff are attentive and I usually don't take more then 10 minutes to check in - with or without reservation.

Leon Foo Jiqiang