Stayed at "new" Courtyard last night in Dallas (Irving/South). The property was 4 months old and was very nice.

My first impression was that is was laid out like an upscale Spring Hill Springs. Very large Bar area with lots of seating. Also had a self serve snack area and large open breakfast area.

Rooms were very nice. Had a new color scheme (blue and gold) and bright halogen lighting. The bed was a substantial improvement over older courtyards and work area was spacious. Qiute frankly it looked alot like the newly remodeled Marriott rooms. If I had closed my eyes and walked into the room I would have bet money that it WAS a Marriott room.

Fixed a couple of my pet peeves like now having a light switch in the bathroom and had a dsl line ($9.00 per night). Did not improve my biggest gripe which is no wall plugs that you can get to with out moving furniture. (Why does Marriott insist on not putting enough wall plugs in their rooms?)

Price was reasonable compared tho the courtyard property on the north side of DFW $109 vs $149.

Does any one know if this going to be a new format for all new Courtyards? If so, they done a nice job on the upgrade. I average aroung 10 nights a year somewhere around DFW and I've found a new home!