The hotel is very dated and a lot of staff seem extremely new (young high school students in training, not much English). Even though they were willing to help, they couldn’t - calling the operator to ask a simple question often led to being passed around to 3 people or so. We had a few issues with cleanliness with the room (stains) and on departure they left us chocolates that tasted like they were expired from 1995 and made me want to vomit. On the plus though, the palace lounge is nice air conditioned place to hang out, the free photoshoot is decent, and the free costume experience in the lobby is a nice touch. Staff are kind and well meaning but not well resourced to help guests with requests.

A stay at the Ayoda Palace includes exclusive access to a dining area that is adjacent to the beach and a lovely pool. In this area, free non-alcoholic drinks were available all day, as well as complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, and "happy hour" that includes heavy appetizers. Happy Hour often became dinner as we are not huge eaters. The Ayoda was clearly once a premiere hotel and still has an elegant beauty, but the rooms feel somewhat dated with some odd lighting controls. The STAFF could NOT be nicer. They were accommodating, friendly and always available. I needed to get to a pharmacy when I arrived and a front desk staff member drove me there, waited for me, and drove me back. Stellar service all around.