Hilton Kinshasa — Hotel in Gombe

I stayed at this hotel for about two weeks in November, less than three months after it had opened. And while it’s by no means cheap (quite the contrary), I quite enjoyed my stay there. I particularly enjoyed the view of the Congo river I had from my room, the excellent food they served at every meal (always a buffet) and also the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff who all seemed like they had been trained (which is not the case in other hotels where the staff are often unaware of basic things in hospitality).

I could see that due to having opened their doors not that long ago, they were still tweaking some things and making some improvements, such as changing the toilet paper for one of better quality (I really appreciated that, the one I had in my room the first few days was thin and not so soft), changing the layout of the dining room tables or constantly adding delicious dishes to their menu. They had several Indian chefs, so there were lovely Indian dishes included in the buffet for every meal, and I was told that they had ordered a tandoori oven to make naan or meat dishes. The desserts were also out of this world.

Another thing I really enjoyed was the gym, particularly all the classes they offered of things like yoga and pilates, as well as the sauna and steam room. Now, the only criticism I can think of about the hotel is how small and shallow the swimming pool is, and how such an amazing hotel doesn’t have even the smallest garden. That would have been really nice. But hey, I guess we can’t...

I could not pay with a master card or a visa. I emailed ahead of time before arrival and asked. I was told yes they accept visa card and master card. Each time someone tried I would simply ask so do you accept visa and master card. Cleary they do not. I was forced to pay cash. paying cash caused a number of issues for me I am still dealing with. On arrival my coworkers confirmed reservation was not given a room. instead was lied to that he canceled his reservation online. Then told it was no rooms available. I have Diamond status with Hilton and was able to get him a room. The reason is his room was given away. I stayed here because I am a Diamond status and it was a new hotel. I wish I had stayed at the Fleuve Congo Hotel which has a good gym and really good security. I was able to use my card at both that hotel with no issue. I will also note that I tried to use my visa and master card 6 days in a row. With everyone who worked at the front reception. Every machine they had didn't work. My coworkers visa cards did not work also. They also had to pay cash, because of these two issues. I can not recommend this hotel. My refrigerator was warm didn't cool my water. my coworkers rooms was all hot refrigerators also. I was in room 810. I wont be staying here on the next visit. you do not do people like that. especially the no room on arrival with a confirmed reservation. no way. I gave a two at least because the gym, breakfast and...

So I spent a night at the Novotel Hotel and couldn't stand it. Checked in at the Hilton the very next day and you'd be surprised with the difference in service, rooms and comfort that I experienced with only $20 more/night.

Starting at the reception, extremely welcoming (I'll update if I find out the lady's name), the staff made me feel like they're there to actually help me rather than "only doing their job". Bravo!

In-room amenities would be 5 star if they provided dental care packets. (Don't get me wrong, everything was great but I'm referring to the international 5 star standards.)

All staff at each one of the restaurants was great. However, "Pedro" (photo attached) at "La Vue" was just a straight up Champ! Besides being great at serving this guy literally looks out for you. Clever and street smart. A random guy started small talk with me at the place and our guy Pedro shows up casually and signals me to be careful. Next thing you know, the "random guy" starts trying to hustle me for money. Pedro was a step ahead.

All in all, most people working there are really putting out more than they've signed up for.

Thanks for making me feel at home away from home. Each one of you.

Edit: The extremely helpful...