When we entered the wing of the hotel where our room was located, there was a very strong smell of paint thinner or other paint product. The smell was almost equally strong in the room, so we asked to change rooms. The one employee at the front desk (appeared to be the supervisor) was not impressed that we asked to change rooms, but arranged for another room. He also sent an employee with a bowl of liquid to our original room, likely a type of air freshener. The 2nd room was beside the first, and also smelled. As there were no other rooms available, we told the front desk staff that we were leaving and going to L'Oreale, another hotel in the Emperor's Palace complex (same owner). They told us to take the shuttle. We stood on the front steps waiting almost an hour for the shuttle to arrive. Although two stopped prior, they were going to airport and would not take us to L'Oreale. When we told the front desk staff that we were still waiting, they said they would arrange for a car to pick us up from L'Oreale. No car came. The supervisor at the front desk was clearly very annoyed - all he saw was lost revenue. The woman working at front desk was friendly, professional and helpful - she saw an unhappy guest.

The rooms at Metcourt Laurel were large and clean, except the bathroom ceiling was very mouldy.

L'Oreale was fine, but overpriced. Although labelled "5 star", it is only a step above ordinary.

Our only unpleasant experience during a three week trip to South Africa.

Our travel agent booked our rooms for the overnight layover in Jo'berg on our way to CCF in Namibia. Glad she did! It's a short shuttle ride from the airport.

The rooms are large and clean. Very comfortable. The staff was very nice. The breakfast buffet was superb and the wait staff were very attentive and efficient. We found our way to the main casino area and restaurants. Lots to do there if you have the inclination and the time. Beats sitting in the hotel room.

Check out was a breeze and once again the shuttle was there to take us back to the airport. I would recommend this to any traveler who overnights in Jo'berg.

We arrived at hotel from Zambia for an overnight stay. Room was good sized, however problems started when we went to leave room for dinner. Door would not budge. 3 hours later and numerous trades people through our room they finally agreed to move us to another room. What amazed me more that no apology came from the hotel staff until the next morning when we checked out and the porter apologised for the inconvience.

I was exceptionally surprised by this hotel, Had read reviews from tripadvisor before we left describing it as just clean and comfortable which suited us for the price we paid but this hotel was faboulous, Rooms were big and of a 4 to 5 star rating, Casino was very entertaining which ment we didnt need to leave the hotel (this was also described as quite a treck from the hotel, only if your an extremly lazy person....) Staff was very helpful and every need was catered for. I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone passing through Johannesburg.