Lamplighter Motel

The hotel is widely noted for its dilapidated condition and the safety concerns expressed by many guests, often citing a pervasive sense of unease and an environment that significantly deviates from misleading online portrayals. Its unique characteristic appears to be its role as a temporary residence for a diverse group of individuals, which contributes to a highly unpredictable atmosphere. This establishment might appeal to extremely budget travelers who prioritize low cost above all else and have minimal expectations regarding comfort or security. However, for unwary guests seeking a standard hotel experience, the reality can be quite shocking. To avoid disappointment, it is strongly advised to thoroughly research recent guest experiences and manage expectations accordingly, or consider alternative accommodations.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently report significant issues with the functionality and availability of in-room amenities. Many reviews indicate that the television sets are often non-functional, and the air conditioning units are commonly reported as broken or ineffective, particularly during hot weather. Basic provisions such as coffee cups or cutlery are often missing, even when tea and coffee supplies are provided. While some rooms may include a mini fridge, an iron, a hairdryer, or a kettle, these items are not consistently available across all accommodations. Additionally, guests have noted problems with non-working lights and broken remotes. Despite these widespread issues, some guests appreciated the presence of Wi-Fi, though its reliability was not always consistent.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently report significant issues with cleanliness and room comfort, often describing rooms as dirty, unkempt, and permeated by strong, unpleasant odors, particularly cigarette smoke and sometimes mold or urine. Many reviews highlight visible dirt, stains on carpets and linens, and general grime throughout the bathroom areas, including dirty showers and rusty fixtures. The state of the rooms is further compromised by broken beds, decrepit mattresses, and damaged furnishings, such as torn blinds and holes in walls. Security is a major concern, with numerous reports of unsecured doors and non-functional locks, leading guests to feel unsafe. Additionally, noise levels from other occupants are consistently cited as disruptive, impacting the ability to rest comfortably.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location receives mixed feedback from guests. While some appreciate its proximity to key areas, describing it as a central location convenient for accessing a nearby shopping center and a university, others find the immediate surroundings to be "dodgy" or unsafe. It is situated on a main road, Dandenong Road, which provides access to public transport options like bus stops and train stations, making it somewhat accessible for those relying on public transit. Parking is generally available, with some guests finding it easy to park directly in front of their units. However, the car park itself is frequently described as unkempt, with reports of rubbish and damaged vehicles, contributing to the overall negative impression of the property's exterior.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding staff and service is notably mixed, though predominantly negative. Many guests describe the staff as disorganized and unhelpful, particularly concerning issues like non-functional amenities or requests for refunds. There are frequent reports of significant problems with booking cancellations, with guests arriving to find their reservations unexpectedly voided or rooms unavailable, leading to considerable inconvenience and frustration. Some reviewers also noted a lack of engagement from front desk personnel, who appeared preoccupied. However, a smaller number of guests did find some staff members to be friendly and courteous, particularly during check-in or when addressing specific in-room requests, suggesting a varied level of service quality.

Additional Information
A significant aspect of the guest experience is the presence of long-term residents at the hotel, which many reviewers highlight as contributing to a challenging atmosphere. This arrangement often leads to considerable noise levels throughout the night, including shouting, arguments, and loud music, severely impacting other guests' ability to sleep. The hotel's pet policy also draws attention, with numerous reports of dogs barking persistently and instances of pet waste on the property, further detracting from the overall environment. The exterior areas, including the car park, are frequently described as unkempt, with unregistered vehicles and general litter, reinforcing the impression of a poorly maintained establishment.