I recently stayed at a Novotel property and encountered a situation that significantly impacted my experience negatively. Unlike other Novotel hotels, this location sells access to its wellness area—including the gym, spa, and sauna—to non-guests. This policy has led to overcrowding, with the facilities often filled to capacity from opening to closing. The serene and exclusive ambiance expected of a hotel wellness area was absent, replaced by a bustling, gym-like atmosphere dominated by locals.Furthermore, the pool was frequently unavailable to hotel guests due to swimming classes for local children, a detail not disclosed prior to booking. The constant overcrowding and external use of the facilities deviate significantly from the quality and exclusivity I've associated with the Novotel brand.This practice not only diminishes the value of staying at this Novotel property for guests but also raises questions about the management's decision-making regarding guest satisfaction and brand integrity. I've taken steps to report my concerns to Hotels.com and plan to reach out to Accor, the parent company of Novotel, to share my feedback.Prospective guests should be aware that this hotel's wellness area is open to the public, which may affect their stay experience. Had I been informed of this policy, I would have chosen to stay elsewhere. Attached is an image of the hotel advertising its swimming classes, underscoring the extent of its engagement with non-guest activities.