El Sid
Apr 4, 01, 12:14 am
When in the Costa Mesa or Santa Ana or Orange, California areas, stay away from the Westin South Coast Plaza. Just stayed there for the third time for Starwood points. Unfortunately, the daily rate can fluctuate from $99 to $135 to $180 to $230 to $260 for no reason! They will not "lock in" a long term rate & the front desk can only be described as rude. They never recognized me as a returning guest. The Starwood Concierge is very inflexible (practices her "I'm Sorry" every opportunity she can get)and for being a Platinum member (highest honor), you get a small box of chocolates on check-in & are put on the "Platinum Floor". No comp breakfast, no comp upgrades for more than 1 night, no health club on-site ($7.50 a walk away), chaise lounges in the rooms that are quite used (sunk in middle), inflated pay required for parking, only restaurant is overpriced and Oh So frou-frou, hotel is next to a Mall and the color scheme is Very Early 90's! Color me gone - This Starwood Platinum is now at the Doubletree in Orange. Will be there for additional 45 nights over next few months. They let me lock in a long term rate & threw in free parking & free breakfast. Oh Yeah - They always recognize me when I check in. Power to the consumer!