Princebella Lagos: Nigeria's Most Luxurious Hotel? (You Won't Believe This!)
Princebella Lagos: Nigeria's Most Luxurious Hotel? (You Won't Believe This!) - My Honest (and Slightly Chaotic) Review.
Okay, folks. Let's talk Princebella Lagos. They're slinging that "Nigeria's Most Luxurious Hotel" line, right? Big claims! I've stayed in enough hotels to, shall we say, develop opinions. So, buckle up, because this isn't your typical, boring hotel review. This is going to be a rollercoaster – a swanky, possibly-slightly-unhinged rollercoaster – of my experience.
First Impressions (and Getting There): ACCESS & … Well, The Airport Run:
Honestly? Finding the hotel was slightly less glamorous than the website promised. Lagos traffic, anyone? Let's just say, having that airport transfer option was a lifesaver. They actually have a decent setup, with someone waiting with a sign. Smooth, after a sweaty, slightly-panicked dash from the arrivals hall. Car park [on-site] and car park [free of charge] are definite pluses once you're there. And the valet parking? Yeah, that's the life. Especially in this heat.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, Honestly.
This is where things get a little… nuanced. The website claimed facilities for disabled guests, which is good. But specifics? Not always crystal clear. I didn't personally need them, but I did notice the elevator, which is essential. I also spotted some ramps, but navigating the whole place with a wheelchair… you’d probably want to phone ahead and be very specific about your needs. Honestly, accessibility seems… a work in progress.
Rooms: The Good, The Slightly… Odd, and the Blackout Curtains (Thank God!)
Okay, let’s talk about the rooms. First off, Wi-Fi [free] in all rooms! Praise be! And the Internet access – wireless was surprisingly strong. Essential for, you know, researching the best Suya spots. The room itself? Gorgeous. Seriously. Air conditioning blasting, and blackout curtains that WORK. I'm a light sleeper, which makes that feature divine. They nailed the basics: Air conditioning, alarm clock, bathrobes, hair dryer, in-room safe box, mini bar, private bathroom, refrigerator, satellite/cable channels, shower, slippers, smoke detector, telephone, toiletries, towels, wake-up service, and a window that opens!
Here’s a quirk (and I'm going to be honest with you guys, this is where I start to feel I am in a home): The design. It’s luxurious, but it has a weird, almost… too much feeling. Like they’ve thrown everything fancy in there. It’s a bit like being in a museum… where you’re also supposed to sleep.
The extra long bed was fantastic. I needed that. Complimentary tea and free bottled water? Always a win. Desk and a laptop workspace? Check. But, and this is a tiny gripe, a socket near the bed would have been HEAVENLY. Had to awkwardly stretch for that phone charger. Minor, I know, but little things!
Cleanliness & Safety: COVID-Era Confidence (Mostly).
Okay, this is important right now. Cleanliness and safety is a huge deal. Princebella seems to get this. They've got the whole shebang going on: Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, hand sanitizer, the works. I even saw staff using professional-grade sanitizing services. They’ve got staff trained in safety protocol, and I felt pretty secure (even though I kinda peeked into the kitchen to see if they really were sanitizing things, which they seemed to be, but what do I know?) The fact that rooms are sanitized between stays is reassuring.
Dining, Drinking and Snacking: A Foodie's Adventure (and a Few Misses)
Oh, the food. This is where things really get interesting. First up, restaurants. Plural! They've got options. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was a highlight. Seriously, the sushi was amazing. And the desserts in restaurant? Forget it, I'm eating like a child. They even had a vegetarian restaurant option, which is amazing! The poolside bar is a must-do. Cocktails while the sun goes down? Perfection. There's also a coffee shop - crucial for those mornings when you need a pick-me-up before the breakfast buffet.
Breakfast [buffet] was… good. It’s a buffet, so you know the deal, right? Loads of options, but nothing that’s going to knock your socks off. The Asian breakfast was a nice touch, though.
Room service [24-hour] is a lifesaver. That midnight craving for… well, whatever. And the pool side bar with the bottle of water, coffee/tea in restaurant, salad in restaurant, soup in restaurant is also amazing.
But here are your weaknesses: The happy hour was a bit disappointing. And occasionally the service felt a little… slow. But hey, Nigeria time, right?
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa Day, Anyone?
They definitely understand ways to relax. The spa is where it's at. I went all out, and got a body scrub, which was pure bliss. The massage was heavenly. They have a swimming pool [outdoor] with, they claim, a pool with a view. The view wasn't spectacular, but the pool itself was pretty relaxing. They also had a sauna, spa/sauna, steamroom, which I loved… and a fitness center – I'm pretty sure I went once.
Services and Conveniences: From Luggage Storage to… a Shrine?
Okay, buckle up, because this is where things get… unexpected. They've got all the basics: Daily housekeeping, laundry service, dry cleaning, concierge, the usual suspects. Luggage storage is helpful, of course. They even have a convenience store, which is handy.
But then… they have a shrine! Yes, a SHINE. In the hotel. I. Was. Intrigued. This is where the “You Won't Believe This!” tagline really kicks in.
They also offer: Cash withdrawal, currency exchange, elevator, facilities for disabled guests, gift/souvenir shop, ironing service, meeting/banquet facilities, safety deposit boxes, security [24-hour], and they also offer Babysitting service, which is a big help for families.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly-ish?
The kids facilities look like a bit of an afterthought, but the babysitting service helps. They're definitely trying to be family/child friendly, but I wouldn’t say it’s their primary focus.
Getting Around: Your Lagos Taxi Tango
The taxi service seems reliable, and they have airport transfer.
Overall Vibe & My Verdict (The Honest Truth)
Is Princebella Lagos "Nigeria's Most Luxurious Hotel?" It’s up there. They’re definitely trying hard, and they get a lot right. The rooms are great, the food is good (some of it amazing), and the spa is worth every penny. The staff are generally friendly and helpful, although, as I mentioned, it can take a bit of Nigeria time to get what you need.
The slightly… random design choices and some inconsistent services did knock it down ever so slightly. The fact that they have a shrine, on the other hand? That’s pure gold.
My rating? 4 out of 5 stars. Definitely worth a stay, especially If you're looking for luxury and a bit of unexpected whimsy.
My Crazy-Good Offer (Because You Deserve It!)
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Why Princebella Lagos?
- The Spa: Need I say more?
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because you're about to get real with my proposed Hotel Princebella Lagos itinerary. Forget perfect schedules, let's embrace the beautiful chaos of Lagos, shall we? This is less a polished travel plan and more a stream-of-consciousness descent into Nigerian hospitality, punctuated by sweat and the occasional existential crisis. Here goes…
The Hotel Princebella Lagos: A Lagosian Odyssey (or, "Help! I'm Lost But Loving It")
Day 1: Arrival and Total Sensory Overload (and Maybe a Nap, If I Can Find My Bed)
- Morning (Pre-noon, because deadlines? Nah): Arrive at Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Okay, so first impressions: breathe. The heat hits you like a wall, the air thick with a mix of exhaust fumes and the tantalizing aroma of…something delicious. Finding a taxi that actually uses a meter is a victory. Feel proud. Negotiate like your life depends on it (it might). The drive to Hotel Princebella is a rollercoaster of near misses, vibrant street scenes, and enough honking to make a symphony conductor weep. My heart rate? Let's just say it's in Lagos traffic mode.
- Midday (ish): Check-in at Princebella. Pray the AC is working. Pray harder that the generator stays working. (The electricity situation in Nigeria is a thing, but hey, character, right?) First impressions of the room…hmm. Okay, it's clean-ish. The bed looks comfortable. Important things first, make sure the mosquito net is in place, or find some good mosquito repellent. Actually, let's ditch the "ish" and say it's probably not the Ritz, but hey, who's expecting the Ritz when you're in Lagos?
- Afternoon (After Nap (Hopefully)): I'd planned to explore, but the trip and jet lag have me down. So, a nap is called for. That nap will be the key to the rest of the day. Then the exploration of the hotel begins.
- Poolside Reconnaissance: If the sun is out, the pool might be inviting, or it might be the temperature of a lukewarm bath. Assess the situation. People-watch. (This is key in Lagos. People are fascinating.)
- Hotel Restaurant Debrief: Time for a meal. Expect the menu to be a suggestion rather than a guarantee. Ordering is an art form of patience and improvisation. Be prepared for the "we're out of that" dance. Embrace it. It's part of the experience. If they have jollof rice, order it. Seriously.
- Evening: After experiencing the Jollof rice, I feel like I can run a marathon but the jet lag still hitting hard. So, probably gonna call it a day, order a drink, and watch some TV (if the power holds). Maybe I'll even brave the hotel bar for a quick drink before bed.
Day 2: Market Mayhem and Existential Jollof (Let’s Pray it's Better This Time)
- Morning (Before Humidity Gets Savage): Okay, today we tackle the market! My research says Balogun Market is the place. Armed with cash, a healthy dose of skepticism, and a local guide (highly recommended for navigating the chaos), I'm ready. Expect:
- Sensory Assault: Colors, sounds, smells (some good, some…less so), and the sheer human energy will knock you flat.
- Haggling: Bargain hard. Then, bargain harder. It's a game. Enjoy it. Learn to say "too expensive" in the local language. Even if I can't speak the local language, I'm still gonna say "Oh! e too expensive!"
- The Unexpected: You will get lost. You will be overwhelmed. You will see things you've never seen before. Take it all in.
- Lunch: Back at the hotel (or maybe somewhere nearby, if I'm feeling brave and have a good guide). Is it possible to find a better Jollof rice? I sure hope so, because I need a pick me up.
- Afternoon:
- Reflection/ Recovery/Regret: The market will leave me in a state. Need time to process it. Maybe some time in the room with the AC on full blast and an attempt at some meditation (or at least a nap).
- The Plan for Later: If I get a second wind, I might explore a museum (if there is any), or a gallery. It's all about the pacing, and the willingness to bail if the Lagos heat gets too intense.
- Dinner: I've heard that some of the smaller restaurants may be better than the hotel restaurant… but who knows. And I might meet some new people while I'm out and about trying to find a place.
Day 3: Beach Bliss (Maybe?) and the Art of Doing Absolutely Nothing
- Morning (Optimism Alert!): The goal? A beach day! Lekki Conservation Centre for a treetop walk? Or perhaps, a visit to the Elegushi Beach? I have been learning the importance of being willing to change gears in Lagos. I have to accept the unexpected
- Afternoon (Post-Beach/Post-Attempted Beach): So, beaches can be amazing and it also can be a little gritty. So, if the beach is a bust (crowded, underwhelming, etc.), I have a back-up plan: pure laziness. Embrace the art of doing absolutely nothing.
- Room Service & Binge-Watching: Order something delicious (or at least edible) from room service. Start to finish a whole season of a Netflix show I have been wanting to.
- Reading in the Sun: If the weather is cooperating (big if), find a shady spot by the pool and get lost in a good book.
- Evening: The end is near! One last dinner. Maybe even a final foray into the Lagos nightlife if the mood strikes. Order a nice meal. Have a chat with the staff. Try to make sure I have actually had some quality time on this trip.
Day 4: Farewell, Lagos (And the Questionable Shower Pressure)
- Morning:
- Packing (The Real Test): The moment of truth. Did I buy too much at the market? Can I actually close my suitcase? It's an art form in itself.
- Last Bites: A final breakfast at the hotel.
- Afternoon: Taxi to the airport. The Lagos send-off is always unforgettable.
- Evening: On the plane, reflecting on the entire experience. One thing for sure, Lagos is a rollercoaster, and I cannot wait to do it all over again.
Important Notes (aka, things that will probably go sideways):
- Power Outages: Embrace the darkness. Learn to love flashlights. Have your phone charger ready.
- Traffic: Plan for everything to take twice as long as you think.
- The "Nigerian Time" Mindset: Things happen when they happen. Relax and go with the flow (or the lack of flow, in the case of traffic).
- Safety First: Always be aware of your surroundings. Ask for advice from locals. Trust your gut.
- The Unexpected is Expected: Be prepared for anything. That's the beauty of Lagos.
And that, my friends, is my (highly imperfect) plan. Let's see how much of it actually comes to pass. I'll keep you updated (if I can find Wi-Fi that lasts more than 5 minutes). Wish me luck. I'm gonna need it. Oh, and if you see me, buy me a cold drink. I'll probably need it.
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Princebella Lagos: FAQs (and a Whole Lot More)
Is Princebella Lagos *really* the most luxurious hotel in Nigeria?
Okay, *that's* the million-naira question, innit? The marketing hype is dialed up to eleven, let me tell you. Marble floors, chandeliers that could blind a small army, the works. And, *yes*, compared to some of the… shall we say… *less* polished accommodations I've seen in Lagos, Princebella is a different planet. Think of it as your temporary escape pod from the glorious chaos. But, is it *the* most? Honestly? Hard to say. Luxury is subjective, honey. Some people are blown away by the gold taps (and trust me, Princebella has them!), while others are more impressed by, say, a genuinely friendly concierge. And the concierge, oh boy the concierge… we’ll get there. Let’s just say, it's *definitely* trying to be. And succeeding, mostly.
What are the rooms like? Are they as over-the-top as the website suggests?
Oh, the rooms. Picture this: I walk in, exhausted, sweat clinging to my clothes from the Lagos humidity. I was expecting… well, *expectations*, right? But what I got was… *more*. Gold leaf everywhere. Seriously. Like, on the ceiling, on the molding, on the frame of the *mirror* where I'd desperately been hoping to see how I looked. The bed? Giant. Pillows? Fluffy as clouds, that you can honestly get lost in. The bathroom? *Unreal*. A freestanding tub bigger than my first apartment, and an array of toiletries that could probably handle ten people. So yeah, the website’s not lying. It's opulent. It’s excessive. And, honestly? After I got over the initial shock, I kinda loved it. It's the kind of place you feel like you should be lounging in a silk robe, sipping champagne. Even though I, ahem, *do not* own either of those things.
The food... What's the food *really* like?
Okay, the food. This is where things get… interesting. They *try*. They really, really do. The breakfast buffet is a sight to behold: everything from proper English sausages (a true rarity, I can tell you!) to local delicacies. But… and this is a big but… sometimes it’s a bit hit-or-miss. One day the eggs benedict were sublime, the next they were… well, benedict-adjacent, let's say. The a la carte dining is better, definitely. But the price! You'll be paying more than you normally would. It *is* delicious, and is certainly worth the price now and then, but I recommend exploring some of the local delights found in the hotel which have a great ambiance. But, if you get a chance try that local delight. It's a *must*, honestly. Just don't forget to haggle with the waiter on price. 😉
What about the staff? Are they helpful and friendly?
Right! The staff. Ah, the staff. This is where my feelings get… complicated. The majority are lovely, truly. Eager to please, genuinely helpful. I had a small 'incident' involving a spilled cocktail (don't ask), and the staff were *amazing*. They cleaned it up without a fuss, brought me a fresh drink, and even managed to not make me feel like an idiot. Gold stars! But… (there's always a but, isn't there?). I encountered a few… let’s call them “less-than-stellar” interactions. The concierge, bless his heart, seemed perpetually flustered, which wasn't the end of the world, I'd be doing it all day, but was just a bit of a hassle, when I inquired about a car service to a local market. He eventually gave me a number, a nice person but didn't quite tell me everything I'd need to know. And a maid, who kept knocking on my door at *7 am* despite my clearly displayed "Do Not Disturb" sign. Look, there are bound to be some teething problems, but it definitely varies. Overall? Mostly good, but you might encounter a tiny bit of the "Lagos time" attitude sometimes.
Is it worth the price?
That million-dollar question, literally. Is it worth it? Honestly, that depends on your priorities. If you're expecting a flawless, five-star experience, absolutely. If you're looking for a splurge and you want to feel like royalty, *yes*. If you’re on a strict budget? Probably not. There are *plenty* of perfectly decent hotels in Lagos that’ll give you a good night's sleep and won't make your wallet weep. Also, consider the price! You're already paying a premium for the name, and if the service isn't absolutely stellar from the start, then you probably won't enjoy it as much as you'd expect. For me? It was a memorable experience. I'm still dreaming of that tub.
Tell me about the pool. Is it as Instagrammable as it looks?
Oh, the pool. Alright, picture this. I'm finally free from the hotel, away from the gold and the staff, with one thing on my mind: diving into that pool. I wander over to it, expecting a blissful haven. And yes, it’s gorgeous. Infinity edge, overlooking the city. Lounge chairs, perfectly arranged. Palm trees swaying gently in the breeze. It *is* Instagrammable. I will admit that. But, there's a catch... Well, *two*. One, getting a chair can be a battle of wills on a busy day. Two, the pool wasn't actually as clean as it looked. I remember noticing a few leaves. And then there were these small, brownish…things. Let's just say, I didn't spend as much time in that pool as I'd originally planned. Which was a *shame*, because I had such high hopes. Such high, Instagrammable hopes! But yeah, gorgeous, but… buyer beware.
What about the spa? Are the treatments worth it?
The spa. Oh, God. Okay, so, I book a massage. A proper, proper massage, because my shoulders were tense from all the "luxury" I was soaking up. The spa itself is beautiful. Dim lighting, soft music, the whole shebang. The therapist, a lovely woman, was *fantastic*. She was genuinely skilled. The massage itself was wonderful. I drifted off, relaxed, feeling all the tension dissolve. And then... (you knew there was a "and then," didn't you?). At the end, she presented me with a bill. Not just *a* bill, *the* bill. And it was... exorbitant. Like, "I could have flownHotels In Asia Search
