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Old Dec 15, 2022 | 6:45 am
  #329  
ajamieson
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20 Years on Site
 
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: London. Edinburgh, Cornwall
Programs: BA GGL, British Midland Lifetime* Loser
Posts: 8,257
First time here at The Drake a couple of weekends ago on a $170/night rate for a standard king room as a Hilton Diamond.

- no upgrade (got a very tired, tatty 2nd floor room near elevators overlooking lower roof access) despite availiability
- refused late checkout request on the Monday; was later offered 2pm after complaint
- wifi poor, Diamond code only covered one device between two of us
- given the lack of upgrade, would have appreciated one full breakfast credit or maybe a welcome drink in the bar
- someone else's F&B charge added to bill by mistake; removed on request

= no club lounge, as expected, but service in the main bar was great
= $18 credit doesn't cover even a modest hot breakfast but there are a few $18 items available

+ historic charm and pre-Christmas atmosphere were great
+ loved the cute breakfast room downstairs overlooking the green, great service
+ loved the location

So, poor recognition/front desk experience but wouldn't hesitate to return to the hotel again in the hope of something better next time. It didn't help that the couple in the adjacent room had a screaming argument at 2am (I called downstairs but got no answer so resorted to thumping on the paper-thin wall to get them to shut up, which worked). I see there are often rates here of $140/night, which feels much more in line with what a standard (unrefurbished?) room is currently worth, I wouldn't pay any more than that if returning.
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