SINA The Gray

SINA The Gray, Milan: A Review of a Michelin Key Selected Property

SINA The Gray, a Michelin Key Selected property in the heart of Milan, offers a sophisticated and uniquely designed boutique hotel experience. Guests consistently praise its exceptional location and distinctive style, making it a compelling choice for travelers seeking luxury and convenience in Italy's fashion capital.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for SINA The Gray is overwhelmingly positive. It boasts a global rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 404 reviews, with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) Club reviewers giving it an even higher 4.9 out of 5 based on 18 reviews, with 100% recommending the hotel. On Tripadvisor, it holds a 4.1 out of 5 from 435 reviews, and a "Very Good" rating of 8.1 out of 10 on Booking.com from 216 reviews. The MICHELIN Guide guests award it an impressive 18.4 out of 20. The sentiment highlights its chic modern design, prime location, and excellent service.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently love SINA The Gray for several key aspects:

• Location: Its unparalleled position directly opposite the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and just steps from the Duomo is a standout feature.
• Design: The hotel is celebrated for its stylish, creative, and eclectic modern design, featuring quirky touches like a red and fuchsia pink swing chair in the lobby.
• Service & Hospitality: The staff's friendliness, attentiveness, and helpfulness are frequently mentioned as a major plus.
• Ambiance: The hotel cultivates a warm, inviting atmosphere akin to a private member's club, and its intimate size (21 rooms) contributes to a homely feel.
• Rooftop Terrace: The Aria Terrace, also known as a shisha lounge during warmer seasons, is highlighted as a "great oasis in the busy city center".

3. Room Quality

SINA The Gray offers 21 uniquely decorated rooms and suites across three floors, each with its own distinct personality. The imaginative design incorporates materials like steel, glass, ebony, silk, and vibrant animal prints. Many rooms feature "delightfully quirky touches" such as suspended beds. Several suites boast luxurious amenities like private gyms, Turkish baths, or large circular Jacuzzis. Guests describe the rooms as spacious, comfortable, and spotless, equipped with modern amenities and sound-proof windows. Welcome touches like water, fruits, and biscuits are also appreciated.

4. Dining Experience

The hotel features "Le Noir" Restaurant, situated on the first floor, which is notable for its entirely black, post-modern aesthetic. Le Noir offers sophisticated Mediterranean flavors, known for its contemporary elegance and cuisine. Breakfast receives positive feedback, often described as delicious with a wide variety of options or "very good". While one review noted it as "decent" rather than exceptional, the general sentiment is positive. For drinks, the modern G Bar is available for a pleasant break, and the exclusive Aria Terrace provides an intimate setting for aperitifs, especially during the warm season.

5. Service & Staff

The service at SINA The Gray is consistently praised as exceptional. Guests report being warmly welcomed, with staff described as extremely welcoming, friendly, hospitable, attentive, and professional. Many have experienced smooth check-ins and even complimentary room upgrades. Staff are also helpful in arranging transportation and accommodating guest needs.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel's location is arguably its strongest asset, receiving a high score of 9.5 out of 10 on Booking.com. It is centrally located in a pedestrian area, "just steps away from center points in Milan". Key attractions are within easy walking distance:

• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: 1 minute walk (0.1 km).
• Piazza del Duomo and Milan Cathedral: 3-5 minute walk (0.3-0.4 km).
• Teatro alla Scala: 3 minute walk (0.3 km).
• Via Montenapoleone Fashion District: 5 minute walk (0.4 km). The hotel is also conveniently located near Duomo underground station. Linate Airport is approximately 4.3 miles away.

7. Value & Pricing

While offering a luxury experience, guests note that SINA The Gray can be "a bit on the expensive side but high quality in general". The Booking.com rating for value for money is 7.6 out of 10. Room rates observed in searches for August 2024 showed prices ranging from approximately £381 to £447. Despite the cost, many reviewers feel the high quality, exceptional service, and prime location justify the price.

8. Common Complaints

Recurring issues or criticisms are minimal, but some guests have noted minor points:

• Room Noise: One guest reported noise from the bar on their floor, suggesting earplugs for early morning disturbances.
• Minor Room Issues: A small issue with a curtain not closing properly was mentioned by one reviewer.
• Perceived Star Rating: One review, while generally positive about the location and staff, stated, "A 3-4 star hotel that likes to think it is a 5 star, it is NOT," suggesting that some might find certain aspects not fully aligning with typical 5-star expectations.

Sources

1. slh.com
2. booking.com
3. michelin.com
4. michelin.com
5. hotels-milan.info
6. hotels.com
7. hilton.com
8. sinahotels.com
9. youtube.com
10. michelin.com
11. sinahotels.com
12. thefamilyhotelguide.com