I burned a Cat 5 AMEX cert to escape the record heat this week (most homes in Oakland, including mine, do not have A/C). Great 35k value, as rooms were going for $499.

No upgrade for a last minute booking on a night the property was sold out, but I liked the base level room, both the fresh decor and the excellent separation from the hallway. Room was absolutely dead quiet. Ability to stream Netflix on the large new tv was much appreciated. I do agree with the comment above that the bathroom was rather small.

Staff were very friendly, definitely a different (friendlier) vibe from SF. Did not like the M lounge at all. It was understaffed and not kept particularly clean. I also agree with ryw's comment the breakfast was much like a Springhill Suites.

"Fresh Bites" is fully implemented. I got a cobb salad. The ingredients (obviously locally sourced) were absolutely top notch, and it's a shame the salad was served in those awful take out containers, with plastic utensils.

For 35k points, this property is a GREAT bay area option. Oakland is changing rapidly and a destination in its own right. You're only 12 minutes by BART from SF (with station entrance about 50 yards from the hotel's front door).