Toulon Getaway: Holiday Inn City Centre Luxury Awaits!
Toulon Getaway: Holiday Inn City Centre - Luxury? Yeah, Okay, Let's See About That… (A Rambling, Honest Review)
Alright, folks, buckle up. This isn't your polished, PR-approved hotel review. This is a brutally honest, potentially rambling account of my recent stay at the Toulon Getaway: Holiday Inn City Centre. "Luxury Awaits!" they chirp. We’ll see about that, won't we? I'm aiming for a SEO-optimized review – a real one – so, prepare for keywords!
Accessibility - The Elephant in the Room (and Sometimes, The Elevator)
First things first: Accessibility. Holiday Inn, generally, is pretty decent on this front. Wheelchair accessible rooms are listed, and I'm betting they’ve got facilities for disabled guests. The elevator was, blessedly, working (I've had some experiences with elevators in Toulon!), so that's a huge win. HOWEVER, the Casting call for reviews of the hotel should have a disabled person because I can't tell you what's really going on with the accessibility.
Cleanliness and Safety - COVID-19 Era Survival Guide
Okay, let's talk pandemic protocols. They were taking it seriously, which is a huge relief in the current climate. Lots of hand sanitizer around, daily disinfection in common areas, and what looked like professional-grade sanitizing services. The staff were all wearing masks, and there were physical distancing of at least 1 meter markers everywhere. I also saw evidence of anti-viral cleaning products being used. Rooms were apparently getting a good going-over between stays – rooms sanitized between stays. There was room sanitization opt-out available if you wanted to keep a bit of your own germies. They even had individually-wrapped food options at the breakfast buffet (more on that later). Seems as though they are doing their very best, which is more than you can say of other places….
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking - Breakfast Buffet Battleground (and the Poolside Bar Bliss)
The breakfast [buffet] was a mixed bag. They’re trying to be good, you know? But it's still a buffet. Listen, I’m not going to lie, I love a good buffet. So, when they said Asian breakfast AND Western breakfast, my eyes lit up! They had coffee/tea in restaurant and the usual suspects. But the REAL highlight? The poolside bar! That was the happy hour highlight. Sitting there with a cocktail gazing at the pool with view, was totally worth it.. There were restaurants available and the promise of Asian cuisine in restaurant. Didn’t get to try it, but the menu looked okay. A snack bar was also an option. They also offered breakfast takeaway service - a definite perk if you’re running late or feel like eating in bed… in the breakfast in room.
Things to Do and Ways to Relax - From Cardio to Calm
Okay, Fitness center was… typical hotel gym. Always a good start point to your day. I personally gave it a pass. On the other hand, the swimming pool [outdoor] was a lifesaver. The sun was beaming down. I think I even saw a Poolside bar. They had a spa/sauna and a steamroom. A massage was offered, but didn't try it, as I’m not that kind of person… or if I had the money.
Services and Conveniences - The Little Things That Matter
This is where the Holiday Inn often shines. Concierge service was helpful, though I didn't need them for anything particularly challenging. A pretty standard offering of laundry service, dry cleaning, and ironing service are available. Oh, and a convenience store for those late-night snack attacks. Cash withdrawal was easy. They had airport transfer too. Don't forget the Daily housekeeping and the doorman, which felt pretty nice.
For the Kids - Babysitting? Possibly, But My Kids Were Somewhere Else!
Didn’t personally test this area, but they listed Babysitting service and kids facilities - a big plus for families.
Rooms - My Personal Castle (or, at Least, My Temporary Pad)
Now, for the nitty-gritty: my room. It was… fine. Clean. Air conditioning (air conditioning is a must in Toulon summers) worked well, which is a blessing. They provided Free bottled water. Free Wi-Fi – a godsend -- they claim it really is Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, although internet speeds can often be hit or miss. I had a desk, which was handy for work (ugh, work). The blackout curtains were a lifesaver for sleeping in. The bathroom was, well, a Holiday Inn bathroom. Clean, functional, nothing to write home about. But functional is good. There was a hairdryer, always welcome. And extra points for the complimentary tea and coffee/tea maker in the room.
Getting Around - Easy Peasy (Mostly)
Car park [free of charge] was a huge bonus. Taxi service readily available.
A Note on the Staff
The staff were generally very helpful and friendly. However, I did notice a few hiccups, like miscommunication about my bill. But they were quick to rectify any issues.
The Verdict: Luxury? Debatable, But It Gets the Job Done
So, "Luxury Awaits!"? Maybe not full-blown luxury. But the Holiday Inn City Centre Getaway is a solid choice. It's clean, safe, conveniently located, and offers a decent array of amenities. It’s a comfortable base for exploring Toulon, and it's got enough going for it to make your stay enjoyable. It's a safe bet.
My Offer to You: Book Now for a Stress-Free Toulon Escape!
Tired of travel hassles? Craving a relaxed getaway? Then book your stay at the Toulon Getaway: Holiday Inn City Centre today! We offer:
- Prime location, with easy access to Toulon's best attractions.
- Impeccable cleanliness and safety protocols for your peace of mind.
- Comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, perfect for work or relaxation.
- Delicious dining options, from hearty breakfasts to poolside cocktails.
- Exceptional service from our friendly and helpful staff.
- Plus, book within the next 7 days and get a complimentary upgrade to a room with a balcony and a bottle of local wine!
Toulon awaits! Don't miss out on your next unforgettable escape! Book your room now and let the Toulon Getaway: Holiday Inn City Centre be your home away from home!
Escape to Paradise: Bali's Lush 1-BR Garden View Haven (NE134A)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because here's my brutally honest, emotionally charged, and probably slightly chaotic itinerary for a stay at the Holiday Inn Toulon City Centre By IHG. Prepare for a journey, not just to Toulon, but into the messy heart of me.
Pre-Trip Meltdown and the Curse of Booking.com
Right, let's be real. Planning trips? It’s a sport. A sport I regularly lose. The initial booking process (thanks, Booking.com, for your constant stream of slightly misleading "deals"!) involved a fair amount of panicked clicking fueled by caffeine and the fear of becoming a hermit. So, before we even get to Toulon, I'm already slightly irritable. Pack lightly? Ha! That's for people who have it together. My suitcase is a black hole of overpacking and questionable fashion choices.
Day 1: Toulon - City of Sun and Sudden Existential Dread
Morning (ish, because jet lag): Arrive at the Toulon train station. The train ride itself? Utterly forgettable, except for the unsettling number of people who seemed to be staring directly into my soul. Anyway, a quick taxi (fought to understand the driver better) deposited me at the Holiday Inn. First impressions? Pretty standard, but clean. Thank god for air conditioning, because Toulon in July is a furnace. Initial thought: "Did I bring enough sunscreen? Probably not."
Check-in: Smooth. The staff were friendly, and the lobby was actually… pleasant. I'm always wary of hotel lobbies. They're the waiting rooms of life. This one, though, passed the vibe check.
Room Reconnaissance: Okay, the room is decent. Not palatial! But the view, what a view! Mostly rooftops and a glimpse of the sea. (Okay, I might have squeaked a little).
Afternoon: The Quest for Lunch (and Sanity)
- First mission: Find REAL food. I wandered the narrow streets near the hotel, slightly bewildered. French is rusty at best. Asking for directions? A comedy of errors involving hand gestures and the increasingly baffled faces of locals. Finally, finally found a tiny boulangerie overflowing with delicious smells. Ordered a sandwich I think was chicken, I was too exhausted to look carefully. Ate it while watching the world go by. Perfect.
- First Impressions of Toulon: It's… charming, in a slightly gritty way. A little bit rough around the edges, but honest. The sun is relentless. There are a lot of scooters.
Evening: A Stroll and a Revelation
- Took a walk along the port, dodging (more) scooters. The yachts are ridiculous. Makes me wonder what I'm doing with my life. Witnessed a truly breathtaking sunset, the kind that cracks you open and makes you question everything. Followed that up with a mediocre pizza and a glass of wine (or two…) at some tourist trap restaurant near the port. Overpriced, but, hey, ambiance.
- Emotional Breakdown (mini-edition): Sitting there, staring at the harbor, I had a mini-existential crisis. Why am I here? What am I doing with my life? Am I wearing enough sunscreen? (Okay, the last one wasn't a crisis, but a worry.)
- Back to the Hotel: Exhausted. Flopped into bed. Realized I forgot to buy water. "Tomorrow is a new day", I heard myself.
Day 2: Double-Down on the Mediterranean and the Charm of Le Mourillon
Morning: The Beach, The Beach, the Beach!
- Woke up early(ish). Fuelled up with mediocre coffee (again) from the hotel. Headed for Plage du Mourillon. This, my friends, this is why I'm here. The beach is gorgeous. Golden sand, crystal-clear water. I spent a solid chunk of the morning just being. Swimming, reading, people-watching. Complete and utter bliss. (Until I realized I really needed the bathroom.)
Afternoon: A Dive into Local Life (and More Coffee)
- Wandered through Le Mourillon. This neighborhood… WOW! This is where Toulon whispers its secrets. The local market, the quaint shops, the real people. Managed to order a coffee (with more accurate pronunciation this time, I hope). It tasted amazing.
- Obsessive Photographing: I took approximately 500 pictures (or more). Everything! Old doors, colorful shutters, street art, cats lounging in the sun. The light in Toulon is simply magical.
Evening: The Food Tour (or, My Quest for Moules Frites)
- Tonight! Moules frites! I'm determined. I found a small restaurant recommended by a local (bless them!). The mussels were divine. Perfectly cooked, in a rich, garlicky broth. The fries? Crispy, salty, and everything I'd ever wanted.
- Rambling Thoughts on Food and Life: I realized, in that moment, that good food can solve almost anything. Even existential dread. (Almost.)
Day 3: The Cable Car, History, and Farewell (for now, at least)
Morning: The Téléphérique to Mont Faron.
- Today, I go up. Up, up, up to the heights! The cable car? A bit rickety, to be honest (and I hate heights!) but the view from the top! Unforgettable. Panorama. Breathtaking. (Even though I spent most of it clinging to the handrail).
- History and Reflection: I even braved the museum up there, something about the history of Toulon in WWII. The emotion of the events were so palpable. I felt a lump in my throat. Not my usual fare, but actually fascinating.
Afternoon: Shopping and Second Thoughts.
- Went back down and bought some souvenirs, desperately trying to avoid anything too cliché. Found a book, a scarf, and a few things that made me happy.
- Exit Strategy: I am not ready to leave. I do not want to go. I will learn French, I will move here! I tried to make a list of everything I want to do on my next trip.
Evening: Packing and the Ultimate Meltdown
- Packing. The worst part. Trying to squish everything back into that black hole suitcase. I had to sit on it. Sigh.
- Final Meal: Ate at a restaurant near the hotel again. Simple but satisfying.
- More Existential Dread: Okay, this time it was a big one. *Am I leaving too soon? Am I missing out? Did I *really* experience Toulon?*
- Goodbyes and Goodbye’s: It was a pleasant trip, but it just felt like there was more to discover.
Departure Day: Leaving, and the Promise to Return
- Early Morning Struggle: Wake up, grab some mediocre hotel coffee and head to the train station. I'm tired, sad, and already planning my return. Toulon, you glorious, gritty, sun-drenched place, I'll be back.
So, that was it. The truth. Raw, messy, and probably filled with spelling mistakes, but that's my Toulon adventure. Hope you enjoyed the view! Now, if you'll excuse me, I need a nap. And maybe a therapist. Kidding! (Mostly…)
Escape to Poland's Hidden Gem: Krutyń's Pearl Awaits!
Okay, spill the tea: Is the Holiday Inn Toulon *actually* luxurious? My expectations are ALL OVER THE PLACE.
Luxury, huh? Well, let's just say my expectations were, shall we say, *optimistic* after looking at those glossy photos online. It's not Buckingham Palace, let's be clear. My first thought when I walked in? "Pleasantly… beige." (Don't get me wrong, beige is comfy sometimes!).
Honestly? It's *good* luxury. The lobby is all marble-y and the staff (mostly) are lovely. The rooms themselves? Clean, spacious, comfy bed – the kind you immediately flop onto after a long day of navigating Toulon's (admittedly charming, but sometimes confusing) streets. They had proper blackout curtains. This is a DEALBREAKER for me. And the shower? Decent water pressure! (Been in some places that are practically a dribble.) My partner, she really dug the Nespresso machine. Me, being a tea-loving Brit, I was more concerned about the lack of proper tea bags (the horror!), but hey, you can't win 'em all.
The "luxury" part? It *felt*… contained. Like the luxury was in the *absence* of the usual travel chaos, if that makes sense. It’s a good, solid, reliable base. Not a palace, but not a dump either. Definitely a step up from that hostel I stayed in during my backpacking phase… (shudders).
Location, location, location! How centrally located is "City Centre," really? Walking distance to anything fun? (Asking for a friend… who's me.)
City Centre, *technically* is the truth. You're right there, which is handy. You're a hop, skip, and a jump from the harbor - fantastic for people-watching and grabbing a pastis (and getting judged for it, I loved it!).
The markets are walkable (SO worth it, trust me). The shops? Yep. The Naval Museum (boring for me, my partner thought it was fascinating) - definitely within striking distance. Honestly, you could stumble back from most places without needing a taxi, which is a HUGE win in my book. Unless, like me, you got overly enthusiastic about the local rosé. Then a taxi is a *necessity*.
However, and this is a tiny "but…", the *vibe* around the hotel itself is a little… sterile. It's all business and, well, hotels. You walk a few blocks and *bam!* You’re in the thick of Toulon life, filled with the kind of delicious chaos I thrive in. Just don’t expect romance right *outside* the front door. It's not the most charming square, by any stretch of the imagination.
Breakfast. Is it a continental nightmare, or a full-on feast? Give me the lowdown! (I'm a breakfast person.)
Breakfast. A critical question! I will say, the breakfast at the Holiday Inn was… adequate. It wasn't a Michelin-starred experience, but it filled a whole and was a useful foundation to the day.
They had the usual suspects: croissants (always a good sign, even if they weren't *quite* as buttery as they should’ve been), cold meats, cheese (yay!), yogurt, cereals, and a selection of the usual fruit. Fresh juice, no fancy smoothies, but okay. The coffee? Standard hotel fare – not amazing, but caffeine delivered. Hot options? Scrambled eggs, (fairly dry) bacon, and sometimes little sausages. It's a solid "get the engine running" breakfast. I saw it as fuel.
One memorable morning (*ahem*, after a particularly generous night out) I may have accidentally filled a small bowl to the brim with the miniature, pre-packaged pain au chocolates. Don’t judge me! It felt wrong, but also… right. They were delicious and I am not ashamed.
The pool! Is it swimmable, or just a decorative puddle? (I need to RELAX.)
Oh, the pool. "Decorative puddle" might be slightly harsh. It’s *usable*. Small. Not huge. Perfectly fine for a quick dip to cool down. Its not the largest pool in the world, so don't expect to do laps, or you will be bumping into people all day. Honestly? After seeing how busy everything was and thinking about a nice long swim, it didn't appeal. The thought of the sun, the quiet, and the lack of kids was just too alluring…
It’s more about the *vibe* around the pool area. They have some sun loungers (get there early!), and it's generally a peaceful spot. You're not surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the city. I took a very large book, some suncream and earplugs. Perfection. Plus, you can order drinks and snacks. The pool is an oasis. A bit of much needed alone time after the chaos of the city, I think it's well worth it.
It's not a resort pool, though. Don’t go expecting a mega-resort experience with swim-up bars and DJs. Just a little bit of calm, which, in Toulon, is sometimes all you need.
Any restaurant recommendations near the hotel, or is it a culinary desert?
Culinary desert? Absolutely not! Toulon's food scene is fantastic. Right around the hotel? Well… the immediate area is a little sparse, honestly. But walk a few blocks, and you are IN. It's all very French, so be warned you will either love it or it won’t be your cup of tea.
I'd recommend, (and I'm a bit hazy on the exact name, sorry!), the one I went to on Saturday night. It was along the water. The mussels were *amazing*. I had to pick up my partner because their face was filled with it. Oh, and that ice-cream... Oh my god, the ice-cream. Go get some ice-cream!
Otherwise, spend some time to explore and be ready to be surprised! But if you want a really *memorable* meal, get yourself down to the harbor. Be prepared to queue (it's worth it) and embrace the chaos. Toulon's food is something really special!
Would you go back? The ultimate question!
Honestly? Yeah, I would. For a few reasons. It's a good base. Reliable. Comfortable. Clean. And the pool? That little slice of calm was worth the price of admission alone.
Mountain Stay
