Xemxija Bay Hotel

This hotel offers a practical and budget-friendly base for exploring the island, particularly appealing to sightseers and explorers due to its excellent transport links. Its signature feature is the provision of spacious rooms, many equipped with self-catering facilities, which guests find highly convenient for longer stays or those preferring to prepare their own meals. The hotel is also well-suited for families seeking ample space and access to pools, and solo travelers who appreciate the peaceful environment and available sunbeds. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, who are often praised for their attentive service. While the hotel is undergoing renovations and some areas appear dated, many guests feel this does not significantly detract from their overall positive experience, especially given the value. To make the most of your stay, be prepared for ongoing improvements and utilize the readily available bus connections to discover the island's many attractions.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features both indoor and outdoor pools, which are generally appreciated by guests, though feedback on their condition and availability is mixed. While the outdoor pool area is often described as lovely with plenty of sunbeds, some guests note that the sunbeds can be old or dirty, and the pool bar is frequently closed. The indoor pool, though available, is sometimes reported as being cold or in need of maintenance, with missing tiles. Many rooms include kitchenette facilities, complete with a fridge, kettle, and cooking hobs, which guests find very convenient for self-catering. However, some mention a lack of basic kitchen tools or issues with noisy fridges. Wi-Fi connectivity receives varied comments, with some finding it reliable and others experiencing signal drops. The air conditioning is present in rooms, but its effectiveness and noise levels are inconsistent. Guests also appreciate the presence of balconies in many rooms, offering pleasant views, though some note safety concerns or cleanliness issues. The elevator system is occasionally described as small or requiring multiple transfers.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness is generally positive upon arrival, with many rooms described as spotless and well-maintained. However, some reviews indicate inconsistencies, citing issues such as dirty towels, uncleaned kitchenware, or a moldy smell in certain rooms. The hotel's room condition is frequently mentioned as being tired, old, or outdated, reflecting ongoing renovations, though some guests were pleased with recently renovated accommodations. Bed comfort receives mixed reviews; while many find the beds comfortable, others report hard mattresses, feeling springs, or even broken bed frames, impacting sleep quality. Noise levels are a significant concern for many, with complaints about loud neighbors, disruptive construction work starting early in the morning, noisy in-room fridges, and general street noise. The bathroom facilities are often described as spacious and clean, but some guests note small shower cubicles, lack of ventilation, or unusual layouts. In-room amenities like kettles are provided, but hairdryers often need to be borrowed from reception, and televisions may have limited channels or non-functional remotes.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast service is a prominent topic in guest reviews, often described as budget-friendly and plentiful, yet consistently receiving mixed feedback regarding quality and variety. Many guests find the selection to be repetitive and basic, with hot items such as sausages, bacon, and beans frequently served cold or undercooked. While some appreciate the value for money, others suggest it is not worth the cost and opt to dine elsewhere. The coffee from the machine is occasionally noted as undrinkable, and the juice watered down. Furthermore, the hotel's restaurant and bar facilities are largely reported as being closed or non-operational during guests' stays, including the pool bar, which is a common point of disappointment. This means guests should plan to seek dining and beverage options outside the hotel premises, as in-house choices are severely limited or unavailable.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is widely praised as a significant advantage, offering a quiet environment while remaining highly accessible. It is strategically situated near bus stops, providing excellent transport links to various parts of the island, including popular beaches and tourist attractions. Guests appreciate the convenience of having a convenience store, cafes, and local restaurants within easy walking distance. The proximity to the sea and the Xemxija Heritage Trail also adds to its appeal for those who enjoy walks. While some describe the area as somewhat isolated if not relying on public transport, most find it an ideal base for exploring the island without being in a heavily tourist-congested area. Parking is available on-site, though spaces are limited and can be challenging to secure, with street parking also an option nearby.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with guests frequently highlighting their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many reviewers commend the staff for going above and beyond to assist with requests, provide local recommendations, and resolve issues promptly. While the check-in process is generally smooth, some guests encountered initial room assignment problems or payment discrepancies, which were typically handled efficiently by the staff. Housekeeping service receives mixed comments; while some appreciate daily cleaning and towel changes, others report less frequent service or issues with towel quality, requiring guests to request fresh ones from reception. Despite a few isolated instances of less welcoming interactions at the front desk, the overall sentiment is that the staff's dedication to providing excellent customer service significantly enhances the guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel is currently undergoing renovations, which may result in some facilities being closed or construction noise during the day, though many guests report these works did not significantly impact their stay. The hotel is consistently highlighted as offering great value for money, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a functional base rather than a luxury experience. A recurring point of feedback concerns the towel change policy, with many guests noting that towels are not replaced daily and may need to be requested from reception, sometimes with a deposit for items like TV remotes or safes. Some transactions, such as city tax or certain deposits, may require cash payments. The hotel also provides extension leads upon request for specific needs, such as CPAP machines, demonstrating a willingness to accommodate guest requirements.