After a pleasant drive, we've arrived at the JW. The hotel is bustling, as expected during this holiday weekend. We booked this for 70,000 Marriott points--not a great redemption, as cash rates were under $600, but we didn't want to spend any more on this trip.

I doubt many "Saved by the Bell" fans frequent this forum, but the reason we are staying here is because the hotel is featured in the two-part episode where Jessie's dad gets remarried (he is the manager of the hotel). The exterior and lobby look largely the same as they did in the early 1990s.

This is one of the largest hotels I've stayed in, and the service levels correspond. I had to call 3-4 times before someone answered the phone on the drive over.

The check-in experience was poor, with an unnecessary wait and an associate who actively tried to shed us instead of answering questions and gave no explanation of the elite benefit choices or the breakfast set-up.

The concierge was incredibly helpful, however, and is a credit to the property. She swiftly rebooked our boat tour, which we missed due to traffic.

The property accepted a Suite Night Award, and the executive suite is spacious and fairly well appointed. I look forward to the balcony view tomorrow morning.

Next up, we will explore the property, grab a drink, and take a boat to dinner at the teppanyaki restaurant.






Sorry for the poor lighting.