A formerly loyal customer and lover of the Chelsea writes:I recently stayed at the Chelsea for the first time since the management change. I've stayed at the Chelsea multiple times over the past five years and cherish the eclectic nature of the establishment and it pains me too see the state of affairs today. I had a run in with Glennon Travis over a discrepancy in my bill which has blown up into a skirmish involving my bank, lawyers, and BD Hotels itself.
On the morning of Sept. 21st, at around 7:30 AM, I arrived at the Chelsea Hotel. I proceed to the front desk to check in. Once I gave them my name I was informed they had expected me too check in on the 20th. I replied 'No, there must be some mistake, my reservation is for the 21st until the 23rd'. The gentlemen behind the counter said 'No problem. The room is available now if you'd like to go in early.' I paid the bill for two nights, $661.31, and went to my room.Fast forward to Sunday, Sept. 23rd. At noon I started to check out, at which time I was handed a receipt for $331.17 and was asked to sign it. After inquiring why I was being charged another $331.17 I was told the 20th was still listed in the system and it was coming up as a NO-SHOW. I refused to sign it, explaining to them what had happened when I checked in. This fell on deaf ears however and I was informed there was nothing they could do about it.
Monday, the 24th, I contacted the Director of Operations, a Glennon Travis. My initial conversation with him began okay, but soon turned sour. Travis was short and frankly rude. He claimed there was nothing he would do to rectify the matter. The call ended abruptly with 'thank you for staying with us, goodbye' at which point I was hung up on. Over the next six hours I contacted this man repeatedly, on the hour every hour. Each time the story changed. First I was being charged for the NO-SHOW, then I was being charged for the fact I went into the room early. Finally, as if the Director realized the error that was made, I was offered a free night in a suite which is valued at double what I was erroneously charged.
The Chelsea at one time was a bastion of creativity and artistic vision. Now it appears to be nothing more then a soulless vessel for two New York fat cats to make some money off of. -- Alex Cook
Now, I sincerely doubt that Alex will return to stay at the Chelsea. Good job BD! Alienate those loyal customers willing to pay $331.00 a night.
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