Sandman Hotel Edmonton West

This hotel is a popular choice for its unique courtyard pool area, which many rooms open directly onto, creating a lively atmosphere. Its prime location near West Edmonton Mall makes it an excellent base for shoppers and families looking to explore the city's attractions. Guests frequently commend the generally friendly and accommodating staff who strive to enhance the stay experience, alongside the convenience of on-site dining options. While the hotel offers spacious accommodations, particularly in the tower, some guests note the property's confusing layout. To ensure a restful stay, consider requesting a room away from the pool if noise sensitivity is a concern, and be prepared for a potentially maze-like navigation experience within the hotel.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's courtyard pool is a significant draw, especially for families with children, offering a fun and engaging environment. However, some guests have noted that the pool water can occasionally be cold or appear cloudy, and there have been instances of towels being unavailable. The hot tub is also a popular feature, though it is sometimes reported as being out of order or having lukewarm water. A fitness center is available for guests, though some find the equipment selection limited. While Wi-Fi is provided, some guests experienced unstable connections or restricted access to certain websites. The availability of vending machines and ice machines is convenient, but they are sometimes found to be empty or out of service. The hotel's layout can be confusing, with multiple buildings and elevators that are not always intuitive to navigate, and some low-rise areas lack elevator access entirely. Many tower rooms feature balconies, which are appreciated, though some have noted issues with cleanliness or security. Select suites offer the convenience of kitchenettes and washer/dryer units.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness is mixed; while many guests describe their rooms as spotless and well-kept, others reported issues such as hair in the beds and tubs, dusty surfaces, or stained linens and towels. The room condition varies, with some areas appearing worn or dated, featuring dings in walls, loose fixtures, or broken closet doors, while other rooms are noted as recently renovated. Most guests find the beds comfortable, but opinions on pillows are divided, with some finding them too hard or lumpy. Noise levels are a recurring concern, particularly from hallways, slamming doors, and the pool area, which can be disruptive, especially for rooms facing the courtyard. Some rooms have also been described as having high humidity or unpleasant odors, including smoke or lingering food smells. While some suites are spacious, many standard rooms are considered quite small. Bathroom issues, such such as lack of shower doors leading to water on the floor, low water pressure, or visible wear, are also mentioned.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers convenient on-site restaurants, including a Chop Steakhouse and a Denny's. The Chop Steakhouse generally receives high praise for its excellent food quality and service, though it is considered a more expensive option. Denny's is appreciated for its accessibility and 24-hour operation, providing a convenient option for meals. However, some guests have experienced long wait times due to understaffing or found the food to be cold or overpriced. It is important to note that breakfast is not included with the stay, despite some booking sites potentially implying otherwise, meaning guests will incur additional costs for meals at the attached restaurants.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, particularly its close proximity to West Edmonton Mall, which is a major advantage for guests looking to shop or visit attractions. Many other restaurants and amenities are also within easy walking distance. However, parking is a significant challenge, often described as a "nightmare" due to a lack of dedicated hotel guest spots, narrow lanes, and a free-for-all environment shared with nearby establishments. The hotel layout is frequently cited as confusing and maze-like, with multiple entrances, some of which are locked, and a lack of clear signage, making navigation between the main building and the tower difficult. While the hotel itself is generally considered secure, some guests have expressed concerns about unsettling activity in the immediate surroundings.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for being friendly staff, helpful staff, and accommodating staff. Many guests highlight their professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as quick and efficient, though some guests initially experienced issues with reservations. Numerous guests appreciated receiving room upgrades to larger suites or tower rooms, which significantly enhanced their experience. However, feedback on housekeeping service is mixed; while some found it responsive, others reported inconsistent cleaning, rooms not being serviced for days, or issues like open balcony doors after cleaning. There were also instances where maintenance requests, such as for broken toilets or heating issues, were slow to be addressed or not fulfilled.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with their animals, though finding suitable outdoor areas nearby can be a challenge. Some guests booked jacuzzi suites, which were appreciated for their size and amenities, though some found the "jacuzzi" to be merely a jetted tub. Certain suites also offer the convenience of full kitchens, which are ideal for longer stays or for preparing meals. The hotel's security measures, including key card access for exterior doors and elevators, are generally effective, though isolated incidents of unauthorized individuals have been reported. While the hotel has undergone some updates, some areas still show signs of age and could benefit from further renovation. Guests should also be aware that sofa beds in rooms are often described as uncomfortable or small. The hotel can become particularly noisy during large events, such as sports tournaments, with increased activity and sound from the pool area and hallways. Wheelchair accessibility to the tower rooms can be challenging due to stairs and a lack of sidewalk paths.