Ambasciatori - Milano, Italy 

This was our 3rd stay at Ambasciatori. They have remodeled (are still in the process, though you might not know if signs weren't posted) but we really saw little difference in the rooms. It's too bad that one or two staff members behind the desks (no name tags, or would have left manager a note) can ruin a hotel experience. One was consistently snippy and rude. I mean, really, really snippy-- and we were causing him no problems. honest!! luckily, another staff member (underling) went out of his way to be helpful. my italian isn't good enough to be sure of this-- but it seems like the snippy one was giving the nice one a really hard time about his helpfulness!?? The common areas are oddly arranged (remodel will fix?) and awkward on entering. Many will find this very disturbing with such an expensive hotel. however, i think this will be changed when the remodel is complete. all of that said-- bathroom is very clean and good sized. beds are very comfy and sheets are very high quality. air conditioning works really well. lights and window shutters are all controlled from next to the bed. the maid service changed the sheets daily, which is such a treat. breakfast is fantastic (though nothing hot on the buffet) with really good coffee, lots of good protein choices (including parma ham) and a good variety of the usual fare. Location is absolutely perfect... just a minute walk from the duomo and metro... shopping right there.... it doesn't get better. we got a really good rate on kemwel. i'd love to return to the ambasciatori again-- but it will be difficult to put the awful treatment we got at the desk out of our minds. we were there 3 nights, and never seemed to be able to break through.