aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga

Durban -29.72216600, 31.06697800 , Corner Centenary Boulevard & Twilight Drive (Show on Map)
8.4
Very Good


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Summary of reviewsThe aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga is widely praised for its prime location, conveniently situated next to the Gateway Mall. This placement offers guests easy access to shopping, dining and entertainment, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers. The hotel’s proximity to the beach, freeways and essential amenities enhances its value as a traveler’s hub.

Guests frequently commend the hotel’s breakfast for its extensive variety and excellent quality. The buffet includes a wide range of fresh and cooked options and the friendly staff further enhance the breakfast experience. Dinner at the hotel's restaurant also receives high praise, particularly highlighting the variety and quality of the menu, although some did encounter service issues and found the prices on the higher side.

Rooms at the hotel are generally described as spacious, clean and comfortable with modern designs. Many guests appreciate the big, comfortable beds and the cleanliness maintained by the housekeeping staff. However, some reviews point out the lack of basic amenities such as bar fridges and microwaves and occasional maintenance issues like faulty air conditioning.

The high standards of cleanliness are a consistent theme in the reviews with guests often highlighting the spotless rooms and well-maintained common areas. The hotel staff are frequently described as friendly, professional and efficient, significantly contributing to a pleasant stay. Specific team members receive commendations for their outstanding service, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests.

The pool area, particularly the rooftop pool, is a notable feature praised for its cleanliness and pleasant ambiance. Despite some mentions of early closing times and limited pool sizes, the area is generally well-received, especially by families.

Family-friendliness is another strong aspect of the hotel with safe environments appreciated by guests traveling with children. Family rooms and secure parking options add to the comfort and convenience for families, although there are suggestions for more child-specific activities and menu options.

Parking availability and accessibility present a mix of positive and negative experiences. While some guests find the parking secure and well-managed, others report difficulties with space limitations and accessibility, especially during events.

The free WiFi service appears to be a common point of dissatisfaction among guests with many noting issues with connectivity and speed.

Overall, the aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga offers a comfortable and convenient stay with notable highlights in its location, breakfast, cleanliness and staff service. Some areas like WiFi, parking and room amenities could benefit from improvements to enhance the overall guest experience.
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Categories
Hotel near Golf Courses

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Hotel for Honeymoon

Family Friendly Hotel

Hotel with Swimming Pool

  Outdoor Pool  


Business Hotel

Hotel with Parking

Accessible Hotel

Hotel with Gym

3-Star Hotel

Hotel with Outdoor Pool

Room Types
Superior Room This modernly decorated room features a balcony and has a private bathroom.

Standard Room This modern room features natural, earthy colours and a private bathroom with shower. There is a flat-screen TV and tea-and-coffee-making facilities.

Junior Suite With a modern style decor, this air-conditioned suite features a balcony, a safety deposit box, and a work desk.

Guest Reviews
8.4
Very Good
Location
The aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga boasts an enviable location that consistently garners praise from guests. Nestled right next to the famed Gateway Mall, the hotel's placement offers seamless access to a myriad of shopping, dining and entertainment options. Many visitors appreciate the convenience of a direct walkway to the mall and the proximity to essential amenities without needing additional transportation. It's also centrally positioned, making it easy to reach the airport and other notable destinations around Umhlanga.

The hotel's surroundings offer a safe and clean environment with easy access to freeways and the beach, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Guests can enjoy the convenience of being able to walk to restaurants, shops and nightlife, enhancing their overall stay. With a plethora of positive feedback highlighting its strategic location, the aha Gateway Hotel emerges as a highly favored choice for those visiting Umhlanga, ensuring a blend of accessibility, comfort and convenience.

Breakfast
The breakfast experience at aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga has garnered exceptionally positive reviews from guests. The majority of guests found the breakfast to be excellent, amazing or even exceptional with many highlighting the wide variety and quality of food. The buffet breakfast was frequently mentioned for its delicious offerings and diverse options, including fresh fruits, pastries, cereals and cooked dishes such as mutton sausages and lamb mince. Several reviews also noted the superb service provided by friendly and helpful staff, which contributed to an overall satisfying breakfast experience.

Guests particularly appreciated the breakfast's variety, describing it as having "lots of choices" and "a wide range of options," making it one of the key highlights of their stay. Some praised the breakfast for exceeding their expectations and the croissants were specifically mentioned as being a delightful highlight.

Despite the overwhelming positive feedback, there were a few mixed reviews. Some guests felt that the breakfast could improve, mentioning the lack of halaal options and limited vegetarian offerings. A minority expressed that the quality had slipped since previous visits or that certain items, like scrambled eggs, were not to their liking.

Overall, the breakfast at aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga was a standout feature for most guests, offering an impressive spread that catered to a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring a great start to the day.

Dinner
The dinner experience at aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests. Many reviews commend the food as amazing, delicious and fantastic with several highlighting excellent and great dining options at the restaurant. Room service is noted to be quick and enjoyable, offering tasty meals. Guests have praised the variety of the dinner menu, highlighting the T-bone steak and the breakfast and dinner options as impressive and satisfactory.

However, not all feedback is glowing; some guests encountered issues such as slow service, incorrect orders and poor quality from room service. The atmosphere seems to enhance the dining experience, though some found the restaurant pricing high and drinks expensive. Though the majority of guests had a positive dinner experience, a few faced disappointing meals and service issues. Overall, the hotel seems to offer a commendable dining experience with room for some improvements in service efficiency and cost management.

Rooms
The rooms at aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga reveal a blend of comfort and modern design, consistently praised for their spaciousness and cleanliness. Many guests find the rooms to be cozy and well-appointed with modern layouts and big, comfortable beds. Cleanliness remains a standout feature, as rooms are often described as immaculate and spotless. The decor is modern and elegant, contributing to the overall positive ambiance.

However, some aspects need attention. Multiple reviews noted the absence of basic amenities such as bar fridges, microwaves and adequate entertainment options like a wide variety of TV channels. There were occasional mentions of dated furniture and worn-out facilities. Additionally, some rooms suffered from occasional maintenance issues like faulty air conditioning, leaks and noise from the road.

Despite these downsides, the hotel rooms generally meet and often exceed guest expectations, providing a good balance of comfort and value for money. The friendly and efficient staff further enhance the guest experience, frequently addressing any concerns promptly. Overall, the spacious, clean and well-designed rooms at aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga make for a comfortable stay, albeit with a few areas that could benefit from upgrades and additional amenities.

Beds
Guests of the 'aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga' have shared a mix of experiences regarding the beds at the hotel. Many guests appreciated the large and comfortable beds, which were often described as spacious, big and extremely comfortable. On the positive side, phrases like comfortable beds, big comfortable beds and super comfy beds frequently appeared in the reviews, suggesting that plenty of guests had a restful sleep experience.

Numerous reviews highlighted the comfort of the pillows and high-quality bed linens with some guests noting the bedsheets were soft and cleaned to a high standard. The bed sizes also impressed many with comments on the king-sized and extra large beds contributing favorably to their stays.

However, some guests did report less satisfactory experiences with the beds. Issues cited include beds that were too hard, sagging or having worn-out mattresses. There were mentions of beds with broken legs and those that created discomfort due to old, sinking or lumpy mattresses. Several reviews noted that the beds are in need of replacement and a few guests found twin beds pushed together to be an annoying arrangement.

While the overall consensus leaned positively towards the beds being spacious and comfortable for many, there were notable concerns raised about the condition and comfort of some beds, suggesting room for improvement in ensuring consistent quality across all accommodations.

Cleanliness
Nestled conveniently close to the Gateway Mall, the aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga boasts a high standard of cleanliness that leaves a lasting impression on its guests. The hotel is lauded for its exceptionally clean and neat rooms with many describing them as spotless, spacious and modern. Visitors frequently emphasize the hotel's overall cleanliness, extending praise to the well-maintained common areas and sparkling clean pool. The cleaning staff are appreciated for their efficiency and friendliness, ensuring that the facilities are always tidy and comfortable.

However, there are some minor inconsistencies noted, such as occasional lapses in detailing certain areas and isolated instances of untidy spots like carpets and shower mold. Despite these issues, the consensus remains highly positive with guests often impressed by the visible commitment to cleanliness and overall neatness of the environment. Whether it's the clean, beautiful rooms or the inviting atmosphere, aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga delivers a refreshingly clean stay.

Staff
The reviews for 'aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga' highlight a consistently positive experience with the hotel's staff, described by guests as exceptionally friendly, helpful and professional. The receptionists and porters are particularly praised for their welcoming demeanor and efficiency. The cleaning staff are noted for their excellent service, ensuring that the rooms are spotless and well-maintained. Many guests emphasized the attentiveness and accommodating nature of the entire team, from the reception desk to the kitchen staff, which made their stays enjoyable and stress-free.

Guests appreciate the warmth and politeness shown by the personnel, frequently noting instances where staff went above and beyond to assist and ensure comfort. Specific members, such as waiters Musa, Phumla and mkhize, along with Chef Nomfundo, received commendations for their outstanding contribution to guest satisfaction. The service in the restaurant has been described as top-notch with enthusiastic and courteous employees contributing to an enjoyable dining experience.

Security at the hotel also received mention with visible and organised personnel adding to the guests' sense of safety. Despite some isolated comments about slow service or inconsistent attitudes, the overwhelming majority of reviews reflect a delighted clientele who found the staff's warmth and professionalism to be the highlight of their stay.

Wi-Fi
Guests at the aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga seem to be consistently disappointed with the quality of the WiFi service. Many guests reported issues ranging from the WiFi not working at all to having extremely slow and unstable connections. Complaints often mentioned that the WiFi was difficult to connect to, especially in certain rooms like room 216 and that it barely worked or did not work at all on the second floor. The limited and unreliable WiFi signal made it challenging for guests to use streaming services or perform basic internet tasks. Despite having great rooms and other amenities, the poor quality of the WiFi was a common drawback with frequent suggestions that the WiFi service needs significant improvement.

Pool
The pool area at aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga receives generally positive feedback from guests. Descriptions often highlight the cleanliness and attractiveness of the pool area with several noting it as lovely, beautiful, well-maintained and featuring a great view. The rooftop pool, in particular, stands out as a major highlight, appreciated for its great setup and the relaxing ambiance it offers.

However, some reviews mention issues such as restrictions preventing access to the pool, early closing times which guests found inconvenient and occasional maintenance problems like murky water and poor water pressure. The pool is often described as small, which some found disappointing. Despite these drawbacks, many guests enjoyed the pool with kids particularly having fun. Overall, the pool area is mostly well-regarded for its aesthetics and utility, contributing positively to guests' experiences at the hotel.

Parking
Parking at 'aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga' is a frequent point of discussion among guests. Reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative experiences. On the positive side, some guests found the parking ample, adequate, secure and well-managed by hotel staff. There were praises for the parking space being spacious and secure and some appreciated the validation of parking tickets by the hotel reception.

However, many guests reported issues with limited parking availability, often having to park at the nearby Gateway Mall, which could be far and inconvenient. The signage and accessibility of the parking entrance were also points of concern with some guests finding it difficult to locate. Several reviews mentioned that the hotel does not allocate enough parking bays relative to the number of rooms, leading to situations where parking onsite is full, especially during events, causing guests to walk considerable distances with their luggage.

Charges for parking were another downside for some guests, who felt that the fees were unnecessary. Overall, while the hotel offers secure and validated parking options, the availability and convenience are areas that could see improvement to enhance guest satisfaction.

Family
The aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga is often praised for its family-friendly environment and exceptional staff who go the extra mile to accommodate families. Many guests highlight the hotel's great atmosphere for family stays, noting that the area is safe for kids to walk around and play. The reception’s Easter decoration was particularly admired by kids.

The hotel offers family rooms and options that cater well to family needs with good security being a consistent positive note. The pool is a popular spot among children and despite some logistical challenges during breakfast, kids seem to enjoy this aspect of their stay. Guests have commended the hotel for their safe parking areas and for making families feel welcome and comfortable throughout their stay.

However, it's worth noting that there are some areas where the hotel could improve its family offerings. The rooftop pool is deemed unsuitable for children and there are no specific child activities provided. Some reviews mentioned a lack of a kids’ menu and not having enough vegan options for breakfast. Additionally, the family pool area can be noisy and there have been instances of loud, disruptive adults around children.

Despite these drawbacks, the overall vibe is welcoming and accommodating for families, making the hotel a solid choice for family vacations, particularly for those who prioritize safety and a friendly staff.

3 Star
Located in the heart of Umhlanga, the aha Gateway Hotel provides solid value for money, making it a dependable choice for budget-conscious travelers. Despite its three-star rating, the facilities and services often exceed expectations with some guests remarking that it competes with four-star establishments. The rooms are described as clean, spacious and outfitted with standard amenities that are sufficient for a comfortable stay. The hotel's modern business appeal is complemented by dated decor in places, particularly noted in the lobby.

Guests frequently commend the hotel’s staff for their friendliness and professionalism, enhancing the overall experience. The quality of cleanliness is also consistently praised, contributing to a comfortable and hassle-free visit. Breakfast receives positive reviews with a good selection of offerings, adding to the attractive value proposition of the stay.

Though some find that the air conditioning and decor could benefit from updates, most agree that the hotel upholds good standards for its star category. The combination of its wonderful location, good service and reasonable rates make it a decent choice for those looking for affordable accommodation without compromising too much on comfort and convenience.

Business
The 'aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga' emerges as a highly suitable choice for business travelers, praised for its convenient and central location. The hotel offers a range of business amenities, making it ideal for business meetings and trips. Guests appreciated the professional and friendly staff, who provided excellent business-class service. Additionally, the hotel offers good value for money, which adds to its appeal for business stays.

The hotel, however, has encountered some limitations with its conference facilities. There have been issues with the air conditioning during large conferences and some restrictions in the conference rooms. Despite these challenges, the facility remains well-regarded for smaller business engagements and meetings.

Guests also highlighted the good wifi quality, which is crucial for business travel and the fast and efficient check-in process. Room availability delays at check-in and difficulty accessing the hotel directly from the rooms were noted as minor inconveniences. The extensive breakfast selection was a positive aspect, although there were some requests for more vegetarian options in the restaurant.

Overall, the 'aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga' stands out as a practical and well-equipped option for business travelers, offering good value and a range of amenities suited for business needs.

Accessible
The aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga is conveniently situated in an accessible area, making it a prime choice for travelers needing proximity to Gateway Mall and local restaurants. Its strategic location provides easy access to various amenities and the wider Umhlanga area. Guests have highlighted the hotel's easy access points with specific mention of its wheelchair-friendly facilities and rooms that are accessible via elevator cards. This convenience makes it particularly suitable for people with disabilities. However, some guests did note occasional accessibility issues and problematic service experiences. Overall, the hotel offers solid accessibility features for most visitors.

Outdoor Pool
The outdoor pool at aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga receives a lot of positive feedback from guests. Many reviews highlight the clean and well-maintained pool area as exceptional with some calling it amazing and splendid. The rooftop pool is often described as relaxing and beautiful, offering a great view that enhances the overall experience. Guests particularly loved spending time in the nice outdoor pool area, which provided a sense of relaxation.

However, there were some mixed comments as well. While many appreciated the clean pool and the excellent service around it, a few reviews noted that the pool facilities were average and the deck and pool area could use some improvement. A small number of guests mentioned cleanliness issues, such as a filthy pool deck and a dirty pool area. Additionally, there was some inconvenience reported due to the pool area closing early at 7 pm and occasional maintenance issues, like the pool not being available or the deck phone not working.

On the downside, the pool area looks over a closed water park, which some guests found to be a sad sight. Despite these minor criticisms, the prevailing opinion remains very positive with the rooftop swimming pool being a standout feature for relaxation and enjoyment.

Honeymoon
The aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga stands out as a prime destination for honeymooners with enthusiastic reviews highlighting its suitability for romantic getaways. Guests have lauded its location, attentive staff and the numerous features included, all contributing to an ideal and memorable honeymoon experience. Couples particularly enjoyed the romantic atmosphere and honeymoon-worthy rooms. Despite an occasional less enthusiastic mention, the consensus remains that aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga is great for honeymoon stays and provides an overall perfect honeymoon experience.


Yes, aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.

No, a spa isn't available at aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga.

No, aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga doesn't allow dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga.

Yes, aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga has a gym.

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