Added value at hotels more important than ever

I was impressed by three things of real value that were offered without charge at 120-roomed Park Inn by Radisson, Cape Town Foreshore during a recent stay.

A shuttle service that is available at no charge within 3kms of the Foreshore and is also available upon request. 3kms takes you to the V&A Waterfront, to Long Street, to Somerset Road in Green Point and to the Biscuit Mill Market in Woodstock.

While it doesn't take you to the spot where the Cable Car departs for the top of Table Mountain, it will deposit you within easy reach of the bus that takes you directly to the Cable Car station.

I mention these specifically as visitors to the city who don't have an available car will typically want to visit these sites and this service will save them significantly. The location the hotel, on Heerengracht mid-way between the Adderley Street fountain and The Cape Town International Convention Centre, means that the city's transport hub (trains and My Citi busses) is within easy walking distance as is the CTICC.

While the hotel has a well-equipped, if small, fitness room (available 24-hours for hotel guests) there is also a Virgin Active gym directly around the corner.

I like the high-energy look of The Park Inn Foreshore by Radisson, a brand that is linked to the Club Carlson awards programme, The Park Inn's design handwriting and colourful RBG Restaurant will be familiar to guests who have stayed at a Park Inn else around the world.

Another free service is unlimited wifi for up to six devices and a full buffet breakfast is also included as standard.

Drawbacks include a glassed-in bathroom (showers are standard so request a room with a bath tub if this is important to you) which means turning on the bathroom light during the night will likely wake your companion.

I was impressed by the generous balcony and Table Mountain and Harbour views our third-floor Business-Friendly category room offered. Service across the board was friendly and energetic.

The Harald's Bar and Terrace with a few sun loungers and a splash pool is a good spot for sundowner drinks. Live music (or a lounge-style DJ) creates a vibe on Friday evenings from 6pm until 8pm.

For more, go to www.parkinn.com/hotel-capetown