The Regency, Rome, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

This hotel is a solid choice for a stay in Rome. If you upgrade or choose the second to smallest room I think it is more than sufficient for the stay (most negative reviews seem to be regarding the size of rooms and AC) - we were 2 adults and one child in our room without issues. The interior of the room is nice, modern, sleek and comfortable. AC works on and off - a bit spotty, but not as bad as I feared, even thought the hotel, restaurant and common areas are quite warm. You don’t need to dress heavily for breakfast. The breakfast was OK. Nothing terribly exciting even though I guess it is quite ok for Italy where breakfast is not a big ritual. Just expected a bit more for a hotel this quality and size. Totally doable though, especially if you are here for just 2-3 nights. The hotel is located nicely and you can walk quite comfortably to many central areas, as long as you don’t shy a 15 minute walk, which we don’t. Staff are friendly, but many also very neutral. There is one female staff on the breakfast team that is amazing, but others are mainly there to carry out their work, not really heighten any experience of the guests, which I guess is fine depending on what you expect. A bit more problem-solving orientation and forward friendliness would be appreciated, especially among the male staff (older) in the reception and bar/restaurant. A smile is rare and sometimes they will just stare while you deal with them in a very unfriendly manner - 0 effort. Also, always ask for pricing. While the food (take away) is quite affordable (and surprisingly tasty) they charge 5€ for half a glass apple juice for a child, which is just a gross overcharge to make some additional euros, not worthwhile the establishment and just feels petty and makes guests less inclined to eat and drink at the hotel. Lastly housekeeping also needs to take it up a notch; the bedding is made and towels exchanged but there is no tidying up of the room, clearing of blow dryer/iron or opened bottles etc. which is expected in a 5 star hotel. Vacuuming would also be appreciated. All in all a recommendation but still some way to go for a full star review!