Escape to Aberdeen's Most Mysterious Hotel: You Won't BELIEVE What Happens Next!
Escape to Aberdeen's Most Mysterious Hotel: You Won't BELIEVE What Happens Next! - A REALLY Honest Review
Okay, folks, buckle up. Because reviewing the “Escape to Aberdeen’s Most Mysterious Hotel” is…well, it's been an experience. I'm still unpacking it all, and the scent of… something… lingering on my travel bag is a constant reminder. Let's just say, this isn't your average Holiday Inn review. This is real.
First Impressions & the Mystery Begins (and My Wi-Fi Woes!):
Finding this hotel was an adventure in itself. The GPS kept hinting at abandoned warehouses, then BAM! - a beautifully imposing Victorian structure, hinting at secrets and… well, something else. The “mystery” is definitely part of the charm.
Right off the bat, let's talk Accessibility: While the hotel is listed as having facilities for disabled guests, I noticed the information available regarding specific aspects like the presence of ramps, modified rooms, or descriptions of the elevators was fairly vague, and I was unable to personally experience it. If you have specific needs, call ahead and triple-check. That's my pro-tip.
Internet access is a rollercoaster: Let's just get this out of the way – the Free Wi-Fi in all Rooms! claim is… optimistic. I'm not sure if it was the mystery, the old wiring, or just gremlins. It dipped, dove, and occasionally vanished entirely. They boasted Internet [LAN] as an option too, but I'm imagining some kind of ancient, dial-up-equipped network if they even have it. Wi-fi in public areas seemed more stable… when I could find a public area with a signal. (Sigh).
The Rooms: Cozy Chaos and a Touch of the Supernatural (Probably):
My room, a "Deluxe Mystery Chamber" (I'm not kidding), was… memorable. Think antique furniture, a giant four-poster bed (loved it, it was HUGE!), and a seriously moody aesthetic. The Blackout Curtains were a godsend, as was the Extra Long Bed after a long day of…well, figuring out directions. The Bathroom was… well-appointed, with a Separate Shower/Bathtub, complete with Bathrobes and Slippers. The Mirror was great. Now, here's where it gets interesting: The Room Decorations included some very odd artwork and I swear I saw a painting’s eyes follow me around the room! Okay, maybe I was just tired. But the fact that there were Interconnecting room(s) available made me a LITTLE bit more nervous than I was already.
The Cleanliness and Safety Spectacle:
They clearly take Cleanliness and safety seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products were prominently displayed, and I saw staff wielding what looked suspiciously like Professional-grade sanitizing services. There was Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer dispensers everywhere, and staff trained in safety protocol - which definitely boosted my confidence, especially considering what I'd heard about the hotel… (Rooms sanitized between stays is definitely a plus). There was even a Room sanitization opt-out available which I applaud, because that showed respect for preferences, but honestly I wasn't risking it. The Safe dining setup and Sanitized kitchen and tableware items further supported safety. I was really impressed by the measures taken for COVID-19 precautions.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Phantom Hunters (and Me):
The Restaurants were an experience. The main dining room offered Western cuisine in restaurant and International cuisine in restaurant, with a Buffet in restaurant for breakfast and some A la carte in restaurant options throughout the day. They also had a Vegetarian restaurant which made finding something to eat easy. I'm not sure how Asian that Asian cuisine in restaurant actually was, but the soup? Delicious, although I suspect it was infused with something… I don’t know, maybe just a magical broth. The Breakfast [buffet] was standard (and yes, a Breakfast in room option was available, but it seemed a little much), and the Coffee/tea in restaurant kept me going. They had a Bar too, with a surprisingly decent selection – the Happy hour was very happy. The Poolside bar offered the usual suspects, and a Snack bar was handy for a quick bite. The Desserts in restaurant were divine. I may or may not have indulged in a few too many…
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (and Maybe Get Haunted):
Alright, this is where the hotel really shines. Okay, the Swimming pool [outdoor] was beautiful, with a view, but a little chilly in the Scottish weather. The Pool with view was also gorgeous, but the same. I preferred the Sauna, Spa, and Steamroom in the Spa/sauna. The Fitness center was surprisingly well-equipped. The Gym/fitness was top of the line, they had a Body scrub and a Body wrap available. I made a friend in the Massage parlor, amazing. After the chaos of the day, the Foot bath was utterly divine. There was a Yoga class but I didn't partake. Frankly, between the mystery and the sheer scale of the place, I spent most of my time just trying to not get lost. Things to do? Try not to scream. Try not to get lost. Try to find a good Wi-fi signal. In all seriousness, it truly offers a unique blend of relaxation and well, being haunted…
Services and Conveniences: The Behind-the-Scenes Shenanigans (and a Really Nice Concierge):
The Concierge was an absolute lifesaver. They could get you a Taxi service and helped navigate the chaos, and was extremely helpful. There was a Cash withdrawal and Currency exchange which was helpful. The Daily housekeeping was very efficient, and the Dry cleaning, Laundry service, and Ironing service all kept me looking presentable. They also had a Convenience store! The Elevator was reliable. I’m not sure what I would have done without the Luggage storage as I was constantly going back and forth due to the internet troubles.
For the Kids (and the Big Kids at Heart!):
Family/child friendly is stated, but I didn’t see many actual kids. They did have a Babysitting service, but honestly, I'm not sure I'd trust it! They also had something called Kids meal, I didn't ask for it, but I’m imagining something… interesting.
The Mystery: My Favorite Part, (Probably):
I haven’t included an exhaustive list of the hotel’s features, as, well, they are mostly irrelevant. The real draw here is the mystery. Whispers of ghostly guests, hidden passages, and a history woven with intrigue… all of it is delicious. I spent an unhealthy amount of time exploring the hotel, trying to find the secrets. There’s a Shrine, a Smoking area (if that's appealing), and a Terrace with a seriously spooky view.
The Final Verdict: Book It (If You Dare!)
This isn't a perfect stay. I’m not going to lie. The Internet access – wireless was truly, truly awful. The location is… not ideal for anything other than the hotel itself. But the sheer uniqueness of the experience, the atmosphere, the whispers of the unknown… it's all worth it. The potential for a truly unforgettable stay? It’s undeniable. The Check-in/out [express] and Check-in/out [private] options were certainly convenient.
My recommendation: Go. But go with an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a healthy dose of skepticism. And maybe bring your own portable Wi-Fi.
Here's Why You Should Book “Escape to Aberdeen’s Most Mysterious Hotel” Right Now (and a Special Offer!):
Tired of cookie-cutter hotels? Yearning for something different? Crave a little adventure with your relaxation? Then this is the hotel for you!
Here's Your Offer:
Book your room at "Escape to Aberdeen’s Most Mysterious Hotel" within the next 24 hours and receive:
- 10% Discount on your stay. (Just mention the secret phrase: "I'm ready for a mystery!")
- Complimentary Bottle of Local Whisky to settle your nerves. (It might help with the Wi-Fi too!)
- Entry to Our Exclusive "Mystery Hunt" Contest with the opportunity to win a free upgrade and other amazing prizes (like a tour around the hotel!).
Don't miss out! This is your chance to experience a hotel unlike any other. Embrace the mystery, accept the challenge, and prepare for an adventure you'll never forget. (And maybe, just maybe, uncover some secrets along the way!)
**Click here to
Unbelievable Bekasi Getaway: 5-Star Comfy Studio at Grand Kamala Lagoon!
The Cults Hotel Debacle: A Mostly True Itinerary (with a side of existential dread)
Alright, folks. Buckle up. This ain’t your glossy travel brochure. This is… well, my trip to The Cults Hotel in Aberdeen. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions, questionable decisions, and the lingering scent of regret (mostly from ordering the haggis).
Day 1: Arrival and Immediate Panic
- 14:00 - Arrive at Aberdeen Airport. (Or, attempt to.) Okay, so, the flight was delayed. By two hours. Which meant I missed the connection to the bus. This is already off to a roaring start! I'm currently standing amidst a throng of confused tourists and a particularly grumpy-looking bagpipe player. My luggage? Who knows where it is. Probably sunbathing on some tropical beach, laughing at my misery.
- 15:30 - Uber (Eventually!). After a brief existential crisis fueled by lukewarm airport coffee, I finally manage to summon an Uber. The driver? A lovely, chatty fellow named Hamish who shared way too much about his ex-wife and his lifelong obsession with Shetland ponies. Bless him.
- 16:30 - Check-in at The Cults Hotel. (Finally.) The building looks lovely. Georgian facade, crisp white paint, the works. Reception, however, is manned by a woman who seems to actively dislike her job. She stares at me like I’ve personally offended her by existing. "Room 307. Breakfast is… well, it’s there," she deadpans, handing me a keycard. This is how you make a first impression, folks.
- 16:45 - Room 307 Appraisal. Okay, the room is… adequate. Slightly dated, but clean enough. The view? Mostly a brick wall. But hey, at least it’s not raining. Yet. (Secretly hoping for a torrential downpour just to match my mood.)
- 17:00 - Exploring the Hotel, and immediately getting lost. Decide to be adventurous. Get immediately lost. Wander aimlessly through a maze of hallways, populated by bored-looking staff members and the faint smell of boiled cabbage. Think I saw a ghost of a disgruntled guest in a tweed jacket, but maybe that was just the sheer exhaustion kicking in.
- 18:00 - Dinner at the Hotel Restaurant (The "Irony" of It All). Called "The Bistro". Ordered the fish and chips. It was… fine. The kind of fine that leaves you feeling profoundly empty inside. The waitress, bless her heart, looked like she was one wrong move away from a full-blown nervous breakdown. I almost offered to take over. Didn't, though. Too chicken. The wine, however, was quite good. Maybe that’s the secret to a good trip, just say yes to wine.
- 19:00 - Attempting to Unpack and Catch Up on Emails. Fail miserably at both. Stare blankly at my laptop, feeling a profound sense of inadequacy. Realize I’ve forgotten to pack my toothbrush. The universe is clearly conspiring against me.
- 21:00 - Bedtime. (Praying for a miracle, or at least a decent night's sleep.)
Day 2: The Cults, Castles, and Cranky Gastric Distress
- 07:00 - Wake up. (Question everything.)
- 07:30 - Breakfast (The "Breakfast" of Champions). As promised, the breakfast was there. Scrambled eggs the color of sadness, rubbery bacon, and suspiciously orange juice. Managed to choke down a few bites. Decided to skip the coffee. Didn't want to risk it.
- 08:30 - The Cults Area Ramble (and another near-miss with getting lost). Try to find the local shops. Ended up wandering the charming, but deceptively-winding lanes of The Cults. Admire the quaint cottages, despite the persistent feeling of being watched. Eventually found a small bakery and bought a scone that was, thankfully, delicious. Small victories, people.
- 10:00 - Dunnottar Castle Pilgrimage. Headed down the coast to Dunnottar Castle. Holy. Crap. That place is incredible. Perched on those cliffs? Absolutely stunning. Spent two hours wandering around, feeling dwarfed by history and contemplating the futility of my own existence (as one does). It was windy as hell, though, and my hair looked like a bird's nest. Still worth it.
- 12:00 - Lunch at a Village Pub (Regret is coming). Pub lunch. Ordered a pie. The pie looked amazing. The pie triggered a gastric event that resulted in the most explosive episode of internal unrest I've ever experienced. I spent the rest of the drive back to Aberdeen praying to whatever Scottish deity of plumbing existed that I wouldn't have to stop. The pie. It was the pie!
- 14:00 - Attempted "Relaxation" in the Hotel Room. Tried to recuperate from the pie incident. Failed. Felt horribly bloated and slightly ashamed of my digestive system. Watched a terrible daytime TV show. Felt worse.
- 16:00 - Shopping (Desperate measures). Needed a distraction. Ventured into Aberdeen city center with the vague idea of buying something. Ended up in a discount store overwhelmed by the choices. Came back with a box of tea and a fluffy pair of slippers.
- 18:00 - Dinner (The Big Reveal). After the pie fiasco, I was tentative about the main event. So, I opted for the safe option: room service. I ordered a sandwich: Chicken and mayo. The sandwich was just, bland, depressing and soggy.
- 19:00 - Early Night. (Hoping for a miracle.)
Day 3: Departure and Reflections (A Little Bit Dramatic)
- 08:00 - Breakfast (The Last Stand). Another breakfast massacre. Managed to find some decent toast, though. Small triumphs.
- 09:00 - Check out of The Cults Hotel. (Escape!) The woman at reception? Still hadn't cracked a smile. I swear, she had a tiny scowl tattooed onto her face.
- 09:30 - Uber to the Airport. (Fingers crossed.) This time, the driver was silent. Bless him.
- 11:00 - Flight Home. (Freedom!) The flight was smooth. The luggage? Arrived!
- 13:00 - Home. (Relief and a strange sense of… accomplishment?)
Final Thoughts:
The Cults Hotel? Let’s just say it wasn't the romantic getaway of my dreams. But, it was an experience. A messy, imperfect, often-hilarious experience. Would I go back? Maybe. But I'd pack a lot of antacids. And possibly a therapist. And definitely a better attitude about Scottish cuisine. Cheers to The Cults Hotel, and to the beautiful mess that is life. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go lie down.
Escape to Paradise: Liu Yuan Green Villa Awaits in Taitung, Taiwan
So, uh, what *is* this supposed to be about? Like, the *actual* topic?
Okay, okay, deep breaths. Basically, it's about a series of imaginary situations. I'm supposed to answer questions, right? But, honestly, I half the time I have no idea what I'm doing. So, let's just roll with it. I'm a little scattered. Pretend you’re at a REALLY long, REALLY loud, and slightly disorganized cocktail party. That's the vibe we're shooting for. Got it? Good! Because I'm not sure *I* do.
I'm feeling...*confused*. Is that normal?
ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Normal is relative! I'm pretty sure I *invented* the term "confused." Seriously, if confusion were an Olympic sport, I'd be rocking the gold medal. Don't worry about it. Lean into the bewilderment. It’s… liberating, in a way. Like, you stop *expecting* things to make sense, and you just… *exist*. Which, right now, is about the speed I'm going.
What's the *worst* bit about… whatever *this* is?
Oh, the worst part? Oh, sweet summer child, where do I even *begin*? If I'm honest, the worst part is probably… the relentless, nagging voice in the back of my head that keeps screaming, "You're doing it wrong!" But also, the sheer *volume* of… *stuff*. The expectation to be witty, insightful, and organized all at the same time? It’s like asking a sloth to run a marathon. Impossible. But, somehow, we're muddling through... maybe. *Maybe*. Let's go with maybe.
Have you ever, like, totally messed up? Like, catastrophically?
HA! You want *stories*? Oh, honey, you came to the right… *place*. I once, and this is mortifying, spent a solid *hour* trying to convince a bank teller that my cat was my dependent. Yes, my *cat*. "He's a very *demanding* cat," I argued, utterly straight-faced. "Needs expensive food, medical care... basically, he's a spoiled, furry ruler." The teller just stared at me, bless her heart. Eventually, I got flustered (understatement of the century), burst into tears (uncontrollable sobs), and had to crawl back to my car. Mortified! The next day, I saw the teller out at the groceries, and I turned around and went home, just to avoid her! I still cringe when I think about it. The absolute *stupidity*! But… also… the cat *is* demanding… Okay, back to the question. Yes. I mess up. A lot. Every day. More than I'd like to admit.
What keeps you going, even when it feels like… you know…everything?
Ugh, don't even get me *started*. Some days are just… a mountain of laundry, existential dread, and the overwhelming urge to hide under the covers with a bag of chips. But, there's this tiny little voice, usually buried under layers of self-doubt, that whispers, "Just… *one* more thing." And that one more thing might be a particularly excellent cup of coffee, a stupid meme, or a moment of genuine connection with someone. It’s the little things, really. And, honestly, sometimes it's just plain stubbornness. "I will not be defeated by a bad hair day!" or something like that. And the fact that I know this is all a bit ridiculous is strangely… comforting. Knowing that I’m a walking absurdity kinda makes it easier to face the rest of the world.
What's the single *best* piece of advice you can offer?
Here's my sage wisdom. Deep breath… Don't take yourself too seriously. Seriously. You’re going to mess up. You’re going to say stupid things. You're going to have moments. Embrace the chaos. Because, and I'm being absolutely serious here, the moments that are the most embarrassing are the ones that make the best stories. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go find some chocolate. And maybe a therapist. Or, you know. Both.
What are the things people can't stand?
That would be an endless list! But, the biggest ones? Passive aggression. People who chew loudly. Being stuck in line. Those *squeaky* shoes that someone can never seem to figure out how to fix. People who never get off their phone at the table... I think it would depend on who you ask. A lot of things!
How do you approach difficult people?
With extreme caution. I've learned the hard way that trying to "fix" them is a Herculean effort. Instead, I lean into the "grey rocking" technique – be as boring and unresponsive as possible. It's not ideal, but it prevents a full-blown drama explosion. Sometimes, though, I might just need a stiff drink. Or a friend. Or, you know, a total isolation from other humans. Yeah, that sounds pretty good.
What do you do for fun?
Fun? Oh man, that's a loaded question. I am a simple person, so, it doesn't take much. Baking is a definite go-to. Singing terribly into a hairbrush. Reading, eating, and spending time outside. But if you ask me... watching an entire season of something in one sitting is probably the best. You can get so lost in it. It’s glorious.
