Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre

“Fine hotel in Johannesburg”

Decent hotel close to the airport of Johannesburg. The rooms are fine, spacious bathroom. Breakfast is fantastic, a lot of choice and of good quality. The free wifi is also good. We were here two nights before continuing our journey, had a pleasant stay.

“This review will probably not matter ”

Let's face it - going to this hotel is like a kids haircut or using Microsoft Office, its probably not something you pick for yourself. I can't imagine someone deciding to stay here if not part of a corporate conference, tour group or event. So in some ways this review does not really impact thei... more

Let's face it - going to this hotel is like a kids haircut or using Microsoft Office, its probably not something you pick for yourself. I can't imagine someone deciding to stay here if not part of a corporate conference, tour group or event. So in some ways this review does not really impact their business. That's the problem. This is a massive, sprawling establishment with multiple venues, buffets and hotels of different grades. I stayed here for a week to attend an event and chose the top of the line Silver Birch Hotel which is billed as an award winning 4* hotel. I should have just gone for the cheaper option since the rooms are a solid 3 star motel grade, My room had a noisy generator outside and an even noisier old style AC inside. You can see the maintenance team struggles to keep up & generally its slightly well worn but OK. The breakfasts were ok - quite generous in the traditional hotel buffet style with watery filter coffee or powder based "espresso's and cupuchino's". The fine dining option is the Grill at 120 which is expensive and mediocre - you will get a better steak at a better price at the Spur just outside the gate of the complex. For the rest its public sector conference/mass tourism par excellence with no adjustment to rules and a saussage machine model of customer service. The one time I complained about something the indifferent "eyeroll" by the reception desk was almost audible - just another guest - one of thousands - with an issue. Its well situated close to the international airport and probably one of few conference venues that can accomodate thousands of delegates with ease. It probably makes a lot of money from folks who eat and drink on the company bill and it delivers on volume and scale. Just don't expect any special attention and know you are just another PAX on just another day. I guess the model works but I can imagine more charming places to stay.

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