Paradis Palace

Let me be absolutely clear: my recent stay at Hotel Paradis Palace in Hammamet was, without question, one of the most appalling, filth-ridden, and health-compromising experiences I have ever endured in what claims to be a “FOUR-STAR” establishment. If this place were graded on actual cleanliness and hygiene standards rather than whatever fantasy rating they’ve conjured up for their marketing, it wouldn’t even qualify for a single star. In fact, a starless void would feel too generous. From the moment I stepped into my assigned room, I was confronted with conditions that I found profoundly unhygienic. The toilet, for example, showed signs of what appeared to be deep neglect. I noticed a hair on the lid and visible discoloration on the seat—far from what any reasonable guest would consider acceptable. It gave every impression that it had not been thoroughly cleaned in a very long time. The bathtub’s interior walls sported a yellowish buildup and stray debris that I felt should never appear in a hotel bathroom, let alone one that claims a four-star rating. The sink area was similarly disheartening: dried stains and hardened residues on the counter, and taps marked by what looked like limescale and possibly mould, suggesting to me a serious lapse in basic sanitation practices. Inspecting the beds did nothing to improve my impression. Underneath the double bed’s mattress, I encountered a layer of dust and debris that seemed to have accumulated over a considerable period. The single beds were no better: I saw what I interpreted as mold-like growth under the spring box and mattress, and one bed featured a stained duvet and an unsettling brownish streak. In my view, this went well beyond a minor oversight and raised serious questions about the frequency and quality of housekeeping. I complained and was moved to a sea-view room. Although this second room appeared somewhat less grimy, I still found it far below any reasonable standard of cleanliness. By this point, my trust in the establishment’s hygiene practices was irreparably damaged. On my final night, the presence of a cockroach in my room underscored just how far conditions had strayed from what I consider hygienic and comfortable hospitality. This unwelcome encounter only deepened my sense of unease and dissatisfaction. Beyond the room conditions, I also became quite unwell during my stay, requiring emergency medical attention while in Tunisia. While I cannot be certain of the precise cause of my illness, the timing was unsettling. The stress and the general lack of hygiene I observed certainly did nothing to reassure me. I was left shaken, out of pocket due to unforeseen medical costs, and deeply disturbed by the circumstances. In fairness, I should note that the buffet and bar staff were courteous, and the desk manager did allow me to print my emergency travel documents without charge. Unfortunately, no amount of politeness could offset the state of the rooms or the distress I experienced