The Brandize - Torquay, United Kingdom     

After enjoying a wonderfully relaxing time at a country Hotel in the North of Devon, it was a real culture shock to arrive in a busy seaside resort. We were even more disappointed when we arrived at our Hotel. The "tree-lined approach to the sea" that we had read the Hotel is situated on, is in fact a major busy road that is quite frightening to cross. The Hotel is described as "Quality Guest Accomodation" and indeed the place is meticulously clean. However, a word of warning to those with sensitive noses, the pungent smell of abundant plug-in air freshners is quite nauseating after about an hour and we found ourselves wondering why this excess was necessary. Also, the notices warning guests about "quality furnishings" gives a less than relaxed feel to the place. We had booked a discounted break with our Travel Offers Privilege Pass and the deal was for bed, breakfast and evening meal. This sounded like a reasonable offer, and being tempted by the idea of "home cooked food using fresh local produce", and this being served in the "charming licensed dining room", we happily accepted. The "charming licensed dining room" is in fact a converted cellar. Nothing wrong with that, except we found it dingy and oppressive and being the sole diners, we found ourselves wondering if we had made the right choice. While the food was indeed home cooked and of reasonable quality, the choice was limited (two - three options per night) and consisted mainly of casseroles. Everything had to be pre-ordered which is understandable in a small family run business which appears to be manned entirely by the owners. However, we were somewhat perturbed to discover that even breakfast has to be pre-ordered and the request for that has to be on reception by 8pm the night before!! This somewhat regimented regime is further engendered by the abundant notices & requests posted around the place, some of which are obviously aimed at the comfort of guests, but others concerning the many rules and regulations of the premises. In fact, to us, a read of the Guest Information Book had a feel of the Ten Commandments which gave a distinct feeling of unease lest one transgress the rules and regulations and incur the wrath of the owners! Sadly, this fell far short of the relaxed and carefree break we were hoping for and left us longing for home. Oh and by the way, read the Terms and Conditions of the Hotel before booking. They read like a legal mandate and are rigidly applied without concern or compromise.