FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - Marin Hilltop Hotel, San Rafael, CA [Master Thread]
Old Mar 13, 2005 | 12:01 pm
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Eastbay1K
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Four Points San Rafael - Where Complimentary HSIA Doesn't Exist

Checked in Saturday evening - the desk clerk pointed out clearly the telephone charges on the key folder, but I didn't think much of it, as I rarely pick up a hotel phone, and know that all U.S. Four Points have complimentary High Speed internet.

Getting to the room, turning the laptop on, and looking for the plug, or instruction card, etc., I found none, but thought "maybe its wireless". The only wireless signal was a secured one, probably from the next office building. I called the front desk, and learned that there is only dialup, and you pay for the calls. (Had I known this, I'd have at least searched for local dialup numbers prior to the stay).

To add insult to this, the hotel channel on the TV touts complimentary HSIA at all Four Points, all while you are sitting in a room with No Speed.

After the marketing blitz of Four Points for this particular service, there should be some huge bold red admonition on the webpage when viewing that hotel online.

When giving a polite complaint upon check-out, the friendly clerk just apologizes (she probably hears it several times a day) and also thinks it ridiculous that the hotel's own TV tells you about this wonderful service.

On the plus side, the hotel does give a comp weekend breakfast buffet to Platinums. (Simple, but fine).

The rooms appear a bit worn and unexceptional, but not worse than many "middle-America" Sheratons.

On an interesting note, the Vienna Boys Choir was staying there, for a local performance. They were mostly in the dining room during my breakfast and I have never been in a room of so many well behaved polite boys, ever. Even when passing them in elevators, etc., they were just so polite.

All in all, if I need a semi-local stay, I'd consider staying there again, but don't give it much more than a C+.
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