Ep 1. The Astor

The Hotel Inspector season 6 episode 1, titled "The Astor," follows experienced hotelier Alex Polizzi as she visits a struggling hotel in Plymouth, England. The Astor, a historic property, is owned by Mark, who inherited the hotel from his late father. However, Mark has little experience in the hospitality industry and has been struggling to keep the business afloat.

Upon her arrival, Alex is disappointed to find a poorly maintained hotel with outdated decor and a lack of attention to detail. The lobby is cluttered and uninviting, the rooms are in need of refurbishment, and the restaurant is unremarkable. The hotel's online reputation is also poor, with negative reviews citing cleanliness issues and unhelpful staff.

Throughout the episode, Alex works with Mark and his team to address the hotel's shortcomings. She encourages them to focus on the basics, such as cleanliness and good customer service. Alex also advises Mark to update the hotel's branding and marketing, as well as to invest in renovations that will improve the guest experience. She suggests that The Astor could become a successful boutique hotel if it prioritizes quality and attention to detail.

As the episode progresses, viewers see improvements at The Astor as Mark and his team implement Alex's suggestions. They improve the cleanliness of the hotel, update the decor, and introduce new menus in the restaurant. They also work on improving the guest experience, from offering a warm welcome to being attentive to guests' needs throughout their stay.

Ultimately, Alex is impressed with the progress made by Mark and his team. The Astor is transformed into a welcoming and comfortable hotel that is poised for success. The episode serves as a reminder of the importance of strong leadership, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality in the hospitality industry.