Checked-in ealier today - and before I could present myself the receptionist said "Welcome, Mr. XXXXXXX". I found that a little funny. No idea how he knew, but maybe I was last on the check-in list today....

Anyway, first impression is quite good. They are in the midst of renovations, and the JW signs are up in the reception, and on the entrance. However, on the outside they are still covered up. The receptionist said that the rebranding will find place next month, in January. It is, presumably, the largest hotel in Berlin, with almost 600 rooms. The public areas of the hotel are vast - very spacious, well-kept and clean. It is a mix between 80s-style and modern design. I got upgraded to a superior suite on the 5th floor. I also received club access, breakfast in the restaurant and points. The suite is outdated, and reminds me of one of the suites I have received at the Elephant in Weimar. But again, well-kept, and super clean. Living room with a sofa, chairs, tv, 2 desks and coffee machine, bathroom with double vanity, bidet, and separate shower and tub. Bedroom with chairs, large and comfy bed, and a large tv. Nice views towards Potsdamer Platz.

Pool on the 6th floor looks nice, but I skipped it today, since it was filled with toddlers and children. Will try tomorrow The bar on the ground floor is nice....old style American bar. Dark, yet intimate. Very nice staff. All of the staff I have met seem to be quite young, and they are very efficient, pro-active and service minded. Super staff in the reception. I visited the lounge to pick up some sodas, and I think it is not the most pleasant place to spend the evening. I will see tomorrow what their offerings are, but taking recent reports into consideration I am not very hopeful. I think it is just a conference room, thrown in some chairs, and made it into a lounge. I would be surprised if this would be the actual lounge once the JW name is on the entrance.

Location - maybe not the most interesting part of Berlin, but it is in the midst of the embassy district....It is, however, not far from transport links. I assume walking to Potsdamer Platz would take around 10 minutes....walking to Kudamm/KaDeWe/Zoo/Bahnhof would take something like 20 and 30 minutes. The bus takes you there in a few minutes. Bus # 200 is very useful, it takes you to many places of interest.

This is just my first impression of the hotel - but I think I would prefer this to the Sheraton nearby. And, there was a cake waiting for me when I arrived

Will report bsck