We recently attended the F-1 races in Austin and the only place we could find to stay was the Casulo Hotel. It is new and strives to create an oriental vibe through its minimalistic furnishings and art. Unfortunately, the service is also minimalistic. Whenever I asked a question, such as "do you have any newspapers?", the response was always the same, a vacant look of incomprehension followed by a shrug.
When thinking of a word to describe the front desk employees, the term "slacker" comes to mind.
Because the F-1 races jacked up the prices at all the hotels, I did not protest that this gussied-up, fancified box on Interstate 35 charged $600 per night. For us, it was a place to rest our heads after each incredibly fun and exciting day in Austin.
The bedrooms are also a little weird; the bathroom/tub area is separated from the bedroom by a large plate-glass window. If you want to lie in bed and watch your roommate sitting on the toilet, this is the place for you. Or you can open the window curtains and have a fine view of the parking lot.
Anyway, we love Austin, one of the coolest towns in the world and the Circuit of the Americas (where the F-1 races were held) is nothing short of spectacular. For next year's race, I need to book a place earlier and not wait until the last minute.
Oh, I almost forgot; they double charged us for our room. My wife brought me our AmEx bill and asked, "Is this right?" Of course, it was not right and we'll get it corrected but it is a small indicator of how they do business.
The Casulo's best employees are the maids and the hotel's shuttle driver. They seem to care about their jobs and want to do the best they can.
hotel reviews