I parket at the Cabot Circus car park, and walked through to the hotel. On my way there were a few loud, drunken homeless people that shouted at me asking for change. They were yelling in the street and made me feel intimidated, it's right by the hotel so this wasn't the best first impression. It stank of urine there too.
Went into the hotel and didn't get a very warm greeting - the girl spoke very quietly and asked what I wanted. I said I wanted to check in, was bluntly told to give a credit card for security - nothing screams welcome more than being treated with distrust on arrivel!! Bear in mind I'd booked and paid well in advance, this felt like a slap in the face.
Anyhow, I went to my room, it was adequate, but I could hear the elevator each time it went up and down, so not great. The windows don't open either, which I didn't like, although the HVAC worked well so I wasn't too hot or cold.
The room was nice and clean, and had plenty of storage, and was well furnished. Comfortable bed, and I had a good night's sleep.
Overall I felt that the hotel has gone downhill a bit since my last stay, don't know if I'll return. The guy running the breakfast was the most friendly person there, kudos to him.