I need to visit Geneva occasionally for business and it's quite difficult to find a hotel that doesn't cost a fortune in the city center. I was hesitant about staying at the Hotel Admiral because of some of the other reviews, but was pleasantly surprised. I chose the hotel because of the decent room rates as well as to its proximity to the main train station. I really liked the neighborhood since it is multi-cultural, touristy, totally not snobby, and is full of bars, tourist trap kitschig restaurants, Halal kebab stands, and male strip joints. I actually felt safer in this area then I would in a quiet residential neighborhood! The grocery stores are open late and there are always people around.
The hotel itself is a good buy for the money, and although the personnel weren't as friendly as in other places, I didn't stay there to make friends with the receptionist. The personnel do what they have to do: give you the room key, tell you when breakfast is, and they make an effort to speak your language. I needed a taxi and the receptionist called one for me immediately. The main floor is very clean and friendly looking, with a nice breakfast area and a computer area free of charge for hotel guests. The breakfast buffet in the morning was fine. Not out of this world fabulous, but certainly good enough! My room was a bit rough around the edges. The door was not in good shape (could use a paint job - or a new door for that matter), the whole room could have used a new paint job, the bathroom just had the essentials, no room to even place a cosmetic bag, the shower grouting and shower curtains were quite disgusting, the carpeting could have used a good shampoo (or new carpeting) and another light in the room would have been appreciated. But, at least my room was very quiet, the heating worked perfectly, the tv also worked, and it was clean. For what I paid (internet non-refundable rate), I have to say, it was a good deal. But, to the owners of the hotel: invest in some nice shower curtains or have plastic or glass stalls built! You spend a lot on the fresh flowers in the main floor. Rather buy a few flower bouquets less a year, and save up for some nicer up to date amenities!
