I happened to be driving by the front entrance to the Hyatt Regency Tamaya earlier today and felt it to be my duty to drive in and investigate.

What I found was one of the more interesting Hyatt properties that I've run across. The special feeling starts with the drive, 2 1.2 miles from the main entrance signage. For most of the drive, one has the feeling of being on a private ranch. Notwithstanding the first impression you might have from the freeway interchange (typical fast food restaurants, gas stations, etc.), by the time you arrive at this place you feel like you are hundreds of miles from civilization. Actually, it's somewhat true, as you're well within the borders of the Santa Ana Indian Reservation (the hotel is actually owned by the tribe).

The scenery is spectacular, with many rooms facing a drop-dead view of Sandia Peak. Also, the way the property is sited, it is almost impossible to see any evidence of human development, other than the property itself.

The ambience is extremely laid back, but professional and friendly-- as I was walking back to my car, I had 2 different staff members stop by with golf carts asking me if I wanted a lift. F&B, rooms, etc. are at the high end for a Hyatt Regency.

A small detail, perhaps, but one of the most interesting things I found at this property was an extremely tasteful deli/convenience store with lots of snack products at reasonable prices. I really hate the standard destination resort practice of basically forcing you to go to an F&B outlet or order room service every time you have the slightest hunger pangs (for me, this often means going with out). Here, they had well-stocked shelves with large size packages of cookies, crackers, chips, etc., at reasonably affordable prices (of course, more than you would pay at 7-11, but a fraction of the smallest possible room service bill). This seems smart on Hyatt's part and I'd like to see them role this concept out at other resorts-- I believe they will see incremental spending increases as a result (people won't eat less at the restaurants or order less room service).

It is really hard to describe the "feel" of this place-- I found it unique and refeshing (and I've stayed at dozens of Hyatts around the world). Just wanted to post my reactions while they are fresh on my mind.