Park Inn, Sandton - lot of dash for not too much cash

The interior design brings a lot of energy to the property, which I believe, is shared amongst other Park Inn Hotels, by Radisson, a Rezidor brand. Local connections are made with very large images of the Mandela Bridge, printed as a black and white image on the window blinds.

Triple volume and large public spaces

The public spaces are triple volume and large, so even when the hotel is very busy, one doesn't feel hemmed in. The bar and lounge are punctuated by black leather look-alike George Nelson Coconut Chairs and the bold colours in the RBG Grill are pleasing to look at. I loved the large-scale images on the wall with accents in red, blue and green, from where the restaurant takes its name. Also, at breakfast, ceramic mugs in the same colours brighten up the area, not that it needs brightening as the length of the building is made up of floor to ceiling windows that draw in the sun and the outside pool area.

Although not busy when we had breakfast, we were very happy with the food quality and selection and service. Some guests did, via the TripAdvisor website, complain about poor service. We didn't experience this.

For smokers, there is a smart, rectangular "fish bowl" dinner table that is entirely enclosed in glass, in the centre of the restaurant which doubles as a wine cellar.

Effective use of space

The bedroom is small (+-23m²), functional but without any frills. Best part for me, as someone who has to turn noisy bar fridges off at night, is the fridge is not only stylish with its glass door but, thankfully, silent. The basin and dressing area is open to the room but mirrors are strategically placed to provide a modicum of privacy - shower and toilet cubicles are shielded but not private. This is a hotel where good design means space has been used as effectively as possible.

Internet access is included in the price of business-class rooms and suites but vouchers are available to purchase at reception. When we visited coverage was fast and consistent.

I hosted a meeting while staying at the hotel and was impressed with the conference facilities, situated in a second building, directly opposite the main reception.

Nearly 500m² of space can be configured into smaller rooms. There is a lobby area which served well as for pre-meeting canapés.

Confirm the best available rate before you book, but expect to pay R1150 per room, or more. Park Inn Sandton is situated at 118 Katherine Street, Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa. For more information, go to www.parkinn.com/hotel-sandton or call +27 (0)11 303 1000.