We flew in from Australia (a very long flight) and landed in Paris at approximately 7am.
Due to heavy traffic, we arrived at the hotel at approximately 9am.
Check in for the hotel was at 3pm, and we fully understood that we would be unable to get in to our room. We did however attend the property to drop our bags off and let the staff know that we were there.
We had minimal sleep and had been unable to change our clothes for 30hrs, so we returned to the property at 1:45pm, hopeful that we may be able to get in to our room a little early. We were turned away, which we again took in our stride; aware that check in was 3pm.
At 2:45pm we again returned, this time certain we would be admitted, but we’re again told check in was 3pm. Exhausted, we sat in the lobby and waited in front of staff.
3pm came, and no effort was made to let us know we could now check in. Frustrated, my partner requested we now be allowed to check in, and we were finally given our key.
It is possible that the room was not ready at 2:45, however I find that unlikely. It instead felt like a disregard for our need for rest, and a ‘I told you 3pm’ attitude.
Having travelled extensively, I have on multiple occasions arrived in cities earlier than check in, and whilst not expecting special treatment, have frequently been allowed to enter rooms ahead of time. In particular, staff are often keen to assist where possible and reasonable.