First of all, I'm grateful Guam was not affected by the earthquake/Tsunami yesterday, but have spent the day trying to contact my friend in Phuket. No luck as of yet so I thought I'd write a report on the Hilton where I'm currently staying, to keep my mind off it.

HHGold automatically upgraded to Executive Floor(with lounge access, apparently some executive floor guests do not have it) room 1375,other than a suite probably the best view in the hotel. Had to take a smoking room in order to get it though. However, no traces of smoke in here except the pack of matches on the patio. Free highspeed internet on executive floors(12 and 13) which is nice. Room is adequate, nice bathroom, bit old overall. Staff are good overall but somewhat no frills. For example, we checked in around 1 am and carried our own bags, which I normally do anyway, but usually there is someone around to offer to help.No big deal for me, perhaps for others....

Executive lounge is extremely small and understaffed with an adequate breakfast and good evening tidbits. However evening drinks are from 530 to 7, the shortest I've ever experienced. There is literally 1 person working the lounge and they are sent up from the fromt desk so don't expect the service you would receive at other executive lounges. However, to the staff's credit, the 2 women I met working there worked extremely hard and remained cheerful throughout. Apparently they will be knocking down the wall and expanding the lounge into one of the suites across the hall. The sooner the better, but they are on island time.

Overall we enjoyed our stay and would come back. But if you want luxury on Guam, the Hyatt and Westin are better options. By the way, I booked a prepaid rate of 75 bucks a night so I am not complaining at all. Very much worth it.

We're off to the airport now(free shuttle for HHonors VIPS I think),next stops, Cairns Shangri Las, Conrad Treasury Brisbane, Hilton Brisbane, Conrad Junipers Gold Coast, Hyatt Sanctuary Cove, Cairns Hilton...all in the next 13 days!!! Will do my best to report on all.

Happy Holidays and a warm thought for all affected from recent tragedies, and their families.

Cheers,
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