I recently took a business trip down to the spectacular coastal town of Narooma, NSW. As I drove in the weather was amazing and the town was pumping with people here, there and everywhere! The positive vibe was contagious.

Tourists were flocking to the information centre to find out what they could do, and the information centre was very informative and had many options for everyone. This is how I met a few of the local businesses by picking up some neat little brochures.

I stayed at the Horizon Apartments, whilst I was in Narooma, at the top end.  They were very well-appointed and the Management and staff were fantastic. I was able to relax and do my work at the same time, a convenient combination. 

Over the next few days I enjoyed the sand and the sun, as well as, getting my fortune told and a relaxing massage – or two. As the rain came in, I also caught myself a movie at the quaint movies theatre in town.

The only thing I must mention that was disappointing was the lack of fresh, quality food and customer service whilst I tried to get a few meals and observe the ‘hospitality’ venues. This actually came as a big surprise to me. 

The most disappointing was going to a lovely little seafood outlet, right in the marina. I ordered crumbed calamari, which when it came out was the small ‘frozen’ type that just tasted like a mouthful of oil and crust. I was able to confirm my suspicion as the freezer next the ice creams had the frozen calamari by the bag load. Needless to say I only had one mouthful and the rest went in the bin. 

The other poor experiences with customer service aren’t really worth a mention, I will just say that it doesn’t hurt to acknowledge the customer with a smile and/or eye contact.

Is it the fact that I was a tourist and not obviously a regular customer, that the service is different? If so, why is this the case when I still wanted to spend my money?

My advice, if you’re heading to Narooma, get a self-contained unit and take some food items with you – just in case.

Rating from Hospitality Brainwave for NAROOMA, NSW  

Accommodation:  8/10

Food Quality:   0/10

Customer Service:   2/10

Atmosphere:   10/10

Luxuries for Tourists:   9/10