Originally Posted by
bocastephen
I agree that some of the room trimmings are getting a little worn - but that comes from years of constant use, and there isn't much that can be done aside from investing in a refurnishing project for all of the rooms and that would cost a small fortune. Individual damaged items should be replaced or refinished, however, and carpeting with stains should also be replaced, I don't disagree with that....
The consensus on this forum is that ongoing investment to keep things fresh is one of the key factors that distinguishes a luxury hotel. When things are worn, they should be refurbished.
Take a look at the Tokyo hotel thread to see how often, for example, the PH Tokyo, FS Maronouchi, and Tokyo Pen get dinged for this very same thing.
Based on my very short stay at Hualalai, I felt that the hotel was more interested in selling things to guests than anything else -- not just in the gift shop, but in the room, the lobby, and the entrance to the restaurant. After all, they figure they already have our money for the room. Maybe after a lot of stays one ceases to notice that sort of thing.