2018 Review




2018 turned out to be our record year for travel- and fortunately almost all of our stays were good ones- there are only 3 hotels we would not return to. I think it says something about Marriott’s portfolio that so many of our stays were noteworthy.

TRULY SPECIAL

9 hotels made our list of Truly Special. IMO these are some of Marriott’s top hotels. 3 of them were return visits for us- 6 were new discoveries, but we would love to visit all of them again in the future.

Domes of Elounda

Our first Amazing Marriott stay that wasn’t at a legacy Starwood property. The bespoke Haute Living service is exceptional and the property and views of Spinalonga are stunning.

Grande Bretagne

An iconic, historic hotel you shouldn’t miss if you visit Athens. We stayed there twice on our trip and loved it even more on our second visit. The views of the Acropolis are outstanding.

Mystique

We were very pleased with our stay at Mystique— with both the service and the breathtaking views.

President Wilson

President Wilson exceeded our expectations with luxury service in a great city hotel.

Prince de Galles

This was our 5th visit to PdG and our nicest Suite thanks to the hotel upgrading us one up from the standard SNA suite. We love the location.

Schloss Fuschl

We dreamed of returning to Schloss Fuschl after our last visit and this stay did not disappoint. We were able to stay in one of the lakefront cottages and it was as wonderful as we dreamed. One of our favorite properties. Will definitely visit again.

St Regis NYC

We finally had a chance to visit this iconic hotel last March and will stay there again this spring.

St Regis SF

We have stayed at the StR SF several times before but this was our favorite visit thanks to an upgrade above the standard SNA suite.

W Verbier

We didn’t expect to fall in love with this hotel but it’s our favorite W ever. Gorgeous rooms, gorgeous location and exceptional service.

VERY GOOD

Each of these hotels has something that elevates it above a standard hotel. 3 were return visits, 2 we stayed at for the first time.

Inn at Rancho Santa Fe
We just visited here for the first time and were impressed with both the property and the service. Will try to post a review later this week.

Le Meridien Vienna
We stayed here 8 nights in a spacious, comfortable ExeSuite. Though we plan to give the Imperial a second chance on our next trip to Vienna we would not hesitate to visit LMV again.

Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel
Another Staycation spot for us. This hotel has a lot of potential. We have yet to receive a Suite Upgrade but hope the hotel will begin implementing for PPEs as they adjust to the new program.

W Seattle
This was a return visit for us. This time the hotel upgraded us to the Extreme Wow Suite.

US Grant
We have probably stayed here 20 times over the years as it’s our best downtown option for cultural StayCations (opera, theater, shows) Back in the day the hotel used to give us amazing upgrades to the Presidential Suite, which understandably doesn’t happen now with record occupancy and $6000 a night rates.

GOOD

These hotels are nice and we would visit again. All are close to home for us.

Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa
This hotel has potential. We liked our little private yard.

Newport Coast Villas
This is one of our “go to” spots for StayCations with our young grandchildren. The spacious 2 BR 2 BA units have an ideal set up for families with full kitchens and laundry in each unit plus lots of fun stuff for kids.

Westin Carlsbad
Though we had stayed at the Sheraton next door before this was our first visit. I think we were the first guests in the Presidential Suite. This hotel is a great option for families visiting Legoland.


Westin South Coast Plaza
AotA’s neighbor. We have stayed here many times over the years.


AVERAGE


Residence Inn Dana Point
The only time we stay here is when we need a 2 BR with our grandkids and Newport Coast Villas is booked.


WILL NOT RETURN

4 Points Sheraton San Diego
This was the cheapest points option for us when we needed a few extra nights. Hopefully the legacy Marriott CC will serve the same purpose in the future if we need a few nights. As LTPP/LTTE it will only be for SNA or Ambassador level reasons.*

* I should clarify that this hotel may be a great Four Points. We don’t have familiarity with the brand for comparison. I know that the staff here was awesome every time we “stayed” here 😊



Houston Airport Marriott
We hated this hotel and thought our suite was one of the worst we’ve had. Surprisingly expensive.


Sheraton Anchorage
I know there aren’t many options in Anchorage but we will definitely try another hotel if we pass through here again.