Background
Built in Cape Dutch architecture, the hotel is conveniently situated in the heart of the growing Midrand area (the midpoint between Johannesburg and Pretoria). Recently renovated after being acquired by the Three Cities Hotel Management Group, the hotel is ideally located for the business traveller, but still has some way to go, in terms of the recent cosmetic changes.
What’s it like?
All the basic business traveller amenities are covered and the rooms overlooking the pool area are a plus, but from an appearance point of view, there does appear to be a hangover from the recent renovations to the reception, restaurant and patio areas. Closer inspection revealed bits of neglect and dirt, which detract from the overall impression of the hotel.
Where is it?
The hotel is in a fantastic location, situated between Johannesburg and Pretoria. It’s across the road from Grand Central Airport and a five-minute drive to the Midrand Gautrain Station. Alternatively, it’s a 20-minute drive to OR Tambo International Airport. Further to the rail and flying options, the central location and proximity to major routes such as the N1 highway, means that guests have easy access to entertainment, restaurants and businesses in the Johannesburg area.
Room facilities
There are 51 en suite rooms comprising deluxe or standard rooms, superior rooms, semi self-catering rooms and one disabled room. All come standard with air-conditioning/heating, access to Wi-Fi, flat-screen television with DStv bouquet and tea and coffee. Despite being recently renovated, I was disappointed with the quality of the paint work in the room I stayed in. Further to that, the kettle was not in a good state and I was reluctant to boil water in it. My other concern was the small size and state of the bathroom, which wasn’t as clean as perhaps it should have been. I would also suggest that one should insist on one of the rooms looking on to the pool area, as there was a lot of noise emanating from the parking lot on the night that I stayed. I also had trouble with my air-conditioning not working and that was disappointing, on a warm evening.
Restaurants & Bars
Breakfast is served any time between 07h00 and 10h00 at the hotel restaurant and it’s one of the Constantia’s best features. I had a delicious omelette with onion, green pepper, mushroom and cheese and a slice of toast that was freshly and carefully prepared and served by an attentive waiter. Both hot and cold breakfast is served with an array of fruits, cereals, croissants, juices, tea and coffee stationed in the buffet area.
Business & Meeting Facilities
The largest conference room, set apart from the hotel and which is turned out in the same Cape Dutch style, caters for banquets, weddings, launches, exhibitions and larger conferencing groups. It can accommodate 300 people. There are three smaller conference rooms that can take up to 90, 30 and 20 people respectively and outside, there is plenty of free, secure, undercover parking for delegates. Flip-charts, note pads and pens are supplied during conferences and the entire hotel and conference area has Wi-Fi. The usual tea, coffee, pastries and lunch are included in conference packages.
Leisure Facilities
There is a small pool and patio area enclosed by the reception, restaurant and rooms built around it. It is furnished with tables, chairs and couches and provides a nice option for after-dinner or post-work drinks, together with a quick dip in the pool, as long as you’re not too much of a private person!
Verdict
I don’t believe that this is the normal Three Cities standard, because they have only recently acquired the hotel. I look forward to enhancements and changes made by the group in the future. Having said that, the Constantia is ideally situated with the basic amenities and is well suited to the business traveller on the run.
Contact
Address: 546 16th Road, Constantia Park, Halfway House, Gauteng, South Africa
Contact: +27 11-3155035, constantiahotel.co.za
Melissa Douman