May 10, 2017, 9:21 am
Last edit by: margarita girl
Hotel email address: [email protected]
The property now provides $15/person credit in the restaurant, which will basically cover cereal & coffee.
Per Flyman:
They don't have the Executive Lounge while they have Executive Level rooms. What they have is an office-style galley on near the elevators on the Executive Level (15/16th floor) where you'll find coffee machine (powdered, not real milk), filtered room-temp water, whole fruit, and snack. In the mornings, they place ONE type of pastry (muffin/donut) and 1 type of juice - their version of continental breakfast. Plat/Gold can get to those floors (if your room is not on the Exec Level) by swiping your room key in the elevator.
The bar has happy hours everyday (4:30-6:30p), and seems to be popular with non-hotel guests as well.
Caution: make sure you get the room type you booked. FDM says there are errors between what Marriott shows for room types and what the hotel actually has.
TIP: From guest room elevator, don't take the elevator to the floor that says 'retail' it's not the ground and is currently a hallway with linens and storage, no way to exit to street. To exit the hotel go to lobby level (2nd) then take escalator to street.
TIP: Kona Coffee Purveyors is a great spot for coffee and pastries (sweet & savory). Exit the hotel and turn right. Just a few doors down, in front of the International Marketplace.
This email should work for contacting the hotel/requests:
[email protected]
The property now provides $15/person credit in the restaurant, which will basically cover cereal & coffee.
Per Flyman:
They don't have the Executive Lounge while they have Executive Level rooms. What they have is an office-style galley on near the elevators on the Executive Level (15/16th floor) where you'll find coffee machine (powdered, not real milk), filtered room-temp water, whole fruit, and snack. In the mornings, they place ONE type of pastry (muffin/donut) and 1 type of juice - their version of continental breakfast. Plat/Gold can get to those floors (if your room is not on the Exec Level) by swiping your room key in the elevator.
The bar has happy hours everyday (4:30-6:30p), and seems to be popular with non-hotel guests as well.
Caution: make sure you get the room type you booked. FDM says there are errors between what Marriott shows for room types and what the hotel actually has.
TIP: From guest room elevator, don't take the elevator to the floor that says 'retail' it's not the ground and is currently a hallway with linens and storage, no way to exit to street. To exit the hotel go to lobby level (2nd) then take escalator to street.
TIP: Kona Coffee Purveyors is a great spot for coffee and pastries (sweet & savory). Exit the hotel and turn right. Just a few doors down, in front of the International Marketplace.
This email should work for contacting the hotel/requests:
[email protected]
The Laylow, Autograph Collection -- Honolulu/Waikiki, Hawaii [Master Thread]
Nov 7, 2017, 3:18 pm
#286
Join Date: Jan 2011
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Hmm, have you checked out the Sheraton Waikiki or Moana Surfrider lounges? Both are excellent and as a matter of fact, charge US$125/night for access if you are not a Platinum member. Sheraton's is on the 30th floor with an outstanding view of Diamond Head. Moana's is right on the beach with an outdoor seating area which is wonderful for sipping your wine at night or having breakfast in the morning. Beer and wine are complimentary and they both serve hot appetizers as well as a hot breakfast.
However, I haven't been to the Hyatt lounge, so perhaps it is even better.
However, I haven't been to the Hyatt lounge, so perhaps it is even better.
Nov 7, 2017, 6:32 pm
#287
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If it doesn't matter as much, then both SPG & MAR options are good.
Cheers.
Nov 8, 2017, 8:20 am
#288
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As a LFT PLT with Marriott the merger was great news for staying in the islands in Feb thinking the Westin, rocking chairs and my favorite coffee shop
Nov 9, 2017, 9:42 am
#289
Join Date: Apr 2013
Location: Orlando, FL
Programs: Marriott titanium elite, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 81
Nov 9, 2017, 10:26 am
#290
Join Date: May 2002
Programs: AAdvantage Platinum, United Silver, Marriott Titanium Elite
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Sadly, the JW Marriott Ihilani at Ko Olina is not longer an Oahu option. It reopened as a Four Seasons after a long renovation.
A very nice option on Oahu is Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club. It's a Marriott Vacation Club. Studios (like hotel rooms with a tiny kitchenette), 1-bedroom suites, and 2-bedroom suites are often available on Marriott.com. If booked on Marriott.com, it's essentially a full-service resort, with daily housekeeping.
Now, getting back to The Laylow, Autograph Collection...
It's a shame that the owners of The Laylow did not target Marriott Rewards Gold and Platinum members aggressively. They could have put in a wonderful executive lounge as part of their extensive renovation. As a non-resort, The Laylow has to provide the breakfast/lounge benefit anyway. Instead of trying to do the minimum, they could have tried to make it genuinely appealing. In these days of social media, online review sites, and communities like FlyerTalk, the word would have gotten out. (Instead, the word has gotten out about the shortcomings of The Laylow in regards to Elite members.)
When SPG and Marriott Rewards are combined into a single program, three's a good chance the current SPG Platinum breakfast option at resorts will disappear. If that happens, The Laylow, as a non-resort, could be very attractive to Elite members -- if the hotel chooses to be.
A very nice option on Oahu is Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club. It's a Marriott Vacation Club. Studios (like hotel rooms with a tiny kitchenette), 1-bedroom suites, and 2-bedroom suites are often available on Marriott.com. If booked on Marriott.com, it's essentially a full-service resort, with daily housekeeping.
Now, getting back to The Laylow, Autograph Collection...
It's a shame that the owners of The Laylow did not target Marriott Rewards Gold and Platinum members aggressively. They could have put in a wonderful executive lounge as part of their extensive renovation. As a non-resort, The Laylow has to provide the breakfast/lounge benefit anyway. Instead of trying to do the minimum, they could have tried to make it genuinely appealing. In these days of social media, online review sites, and communities like FlyerTalk, the word would have gotten out. (Instead, the word has gotten out about the shortcomings of The Laylow in regards to Elite members.)
When SPG and Marriott Rewards are combined into a single program, three's a good chance the current SPG Platinum breakfast option at resorts will disappear. If that happens, The Laylow, as a non-resort, could be very attractive to Elite members -- if the hotel chooses to be.
Last edited by Horace; Nov 9, 2017 at 10:33 am
Jan 4, 2018, 3:13 pm
#291
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The $15 credit will cover a cereal and coffee then, still cheaper than spending money at Starbucks yeh?
A savory oatmeal with sausage, egg and mushrooms is $14, so you would still be spending money above and beyond the $15 credit if you choose that type of option.
We will most probably just buy some cereal and milk at the local ABC store, and use up the $30 daily credit (for 2 of us) on the important stuff, alcohol.
We checked in very early so was given a corner suite on one of the lower levels, I'll see if I have access to the executive levels later on, for the advertised complimentary food and drinks.
Although it looks like you have to scan your room key now to access your level in the lift.
A savory oatmeal with sausage, egg and mushrooms is $14, so you would still be spending money above and beyond the $15 credit if you choose that type of option.
We will most probably just buy some cereal and milk at the local ABC store, and use up the $30 daily credit (for 2 of us) on the important stuff, alcohol.
We checked in very early so was given a corner suite on one of the lower levels, I'll see if I have access to the executive levels later on, for the advertised complimentary food and drinks.
Although it looks like you have to scan your room key now to access your level in the lift.
Also, there's a report that the current restaurant menu has no breakfast items for under $15.
Moreover, some of the reviews from golds and platinums are bad. Like the hotel denying the compensation required under Marriott's terms when not getting the guaranteed bed booked.
Last edited by hockeyinsider; Jan 4, 2018 at 3:22 pm
Jan 4, 2018, 7:12 pm
#292
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A recent gold-elite reports on TripAdvisor that the vouchers are no longer allowed for alcohol.
Also, there's a report that the current restaurant menu has no breakfast items for under $15.
Moreover, some of the reviews from golds and platinums are bad. Like the hotel denying the compensation required under Marriott's terms when not getting the guaranteed bed booked.
Also, there's a report that the current restaurant menu has no breakfast items for under $15.
Moreover, some of the reviews from golds and platinums are bad. Like the hotel denying the compensation required under Marriott's terms when not getting the guaranteed bed booked.
You know I am surprised why Marriott after all these reports and posts done something about this. It's a shame if Bill was still running the company this would not have bee allowed to continue. Best to just avoid the hotel.
Jan 5, 2018, 4:24 am
#293
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The question is to what extent does Marriott independent monitor reviews of its franchised properties? Also, the problem is for every bad review from an elite there is a great review from a non-status guest. That's the problem. I think this hotel is perfectly fine if you never stay at hotels and have no idea how things should be. But clearly anyone with any level of status realizes there are major problems, based on the reviews. I've yet to see a review from a silver, gold or platinum that didn't report serious issues.
Jan 5, 2018, 6:06 am
#294
Join Date: Apr 2013
Location: Orlando, FL
Programs: Marriott titanium elite, Hilton Diamond
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The question is to what extent does Marriott independent monitor reviews of its franchised properties? Also, the problem is for every bad review from an elite there is a great review from a non-status guest. That's the problem. I think this hotel is perfectly fine if you never stay at hotels and have no idea how things should be. But clearly anyone with any level of status realizes there are major problems, based on the reviews. I've yet to see a review from a silver, gold or platinum that didn't report serious issues.
At that time though, you could save up your $15 daily credit, and use them on alcohol.
Still prefer this hotel to the Waikiki Marriott and the Courtyard, not many other choices when staying as part of the 7 day Marriott vacation package
Jan 5, 2018, 10:23 am
#295
Join Date: Jan 2011
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The question is to what extent does Marriott independent monitor reviews of its franchised properties? Also, the problem is for every bad review from an elite there is a great review from a non-status guest. That's the problem. I think this hotel is perfectly fine if you never stay at hotels and have no idea how things should be. But clearly anyone with any level of status realizes there are major problems, based on the reviews. I've yet to see a review from a silver, gold or platinum that didn't report serious issues.
As for Marriott monitoring they are suppose to have a team that does this, I imagine with SPG merger going on they have their hands full, no excuse. I do know they came down on the CY several years ago. It's room count thats what it's all about these days
Jan 5, 2018, 11:32 am
#296
Join Date: Aug 2013
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It shows one how many tourist are being taken by the name "Marriott" while I have not stayed here I have been traveling to the islands for business and pleasure since 1975, married to an island girl. Having said that I seen many changes over the years to the island hotels I have seen like many of us what equity capitol has done to many of the fine iconic hotels, and what happens when old run down apartments/hotels are "renovated" and reflagged. Again I have never stayed here but I do remember the building as having done some structural work on several nearby properties. It's a shame that greed has taken the place of providing a real service for the money charged.
As for Marriott monitoring they are suppose to have a team that does this, I imagine with SPG merger going on they have their hands full, no excuse. I do know they came down on the CY several years ago. It's room count thats what it's all about these days
As for Marriott monitoring they are suppose to have a team that does this, I imagine with SPG merger going on they have their hands full, no excuse. I do know they came down on the CY several years ago. It's room count thats what it's all about these days
From what I see on this board, the three reason are:
1) The lounge is an insult - Agreed, it looks pathetic. However, the $15 vouchers are a fair substitute.
2) The hotel claims the resort exception, even though it's not a resort - Even though it's not "The Laylow Resort", it's a football field away from the beach and still has to deal with the same logistical issues as any other beach resort.
3) The hotel is a renovation instead of new construction - As long as it's a quality finished-product, who cares?
The hotel scene in Waikiki does suck, but you're the one who decided to stay in Waikiki.
Jan 23, 2018, 6:41 am
#297
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: PHL
Programs: IHG Diamond Ambassador, AAdvantage Gold, Marriott Gold, Hilton Gold
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I stayed here January 13-15th and it was as-expected. I booked a base-room ~6 months in advance for $230/nt (plus taxes/fees), and 2 days ahead of time, was upgraded to a corner suite on the 10th floor.
While "corner suite" sounds impressive, it's not much larger than a base room and does not have an independent living area. The bathroom remains pretty standard too. The biggest feature for the corner suite is that you have two balconies, so you get 270 degrees of viewing and the opportunity to turn the AC off and get some cross-breeze and ambient noise (mix of HVAC units, music from International Market Place, and bells from the tourist bus - more pleasant than it sounds).
Regarding the hotel itself, I feel they did an impressive job renovating, with the exception of the elevators and balconies:
That being said, I'm not sure if I would return. The hotel is a solid, affordable base for urban exploring, but if you're looking to relax, it may be worth spending extra for something on the beach. This will be especially true if rates keep creeping-up (I believe they're now typically around $300/nt + taxes/fees).
Food voucher for elites - one voucher per person per night.
View of pool from our west-facing balcony. Kuhio Avenue seen behind it. Parking structure to the right is part of International Market Place.
View from our south-facing balcony. The International Market Place is seen at the bottom/left; it extends nearly all the way to the hotel and provides a nice walking-route towards the beach.
While "corner suite" sounds impressive, it's not much larger than a base room and does not have an independent living area. The bathroom remains pretty standard too. The biggest feature for the corner suite is that you have two balconies, so you get 270 degrees of viewing and the opportunity to turn the AC off and get some cross-breeze and ambient noise (mix of HVAC units, music from International Market Place, and bells from the tourist bus - more pleasant than it sounds).
Regarding the hotel itself, I feel they did an impressive job renovating, with the exception of the elevators and balconies:
- Elevators - There are only two elevators (no service elevator), which simply isn't enough. Wait times varied, but it felt like an average of 3-4 minutes. You would need to plan your day around minimizing trips to your room.
- Balconies - Had no updates done on them, and when you're on them, it feels like you're staying at the cheap old hotel that it was.
- Rooms - Great job updating the rooms, although size was limited by the existing footprint.
- Pool - It only gets a few hours of sun each day, but it's hopping when it does (not overcrowded). It's quiet when there's shade.
- Restaurant - Good food, great scene, but overpriced. I didn't mind because I was given two $15 vouchers per day, but would have felt a little fleeced if paying out of pocket.
That being said, I'm not sure if I would return. The hotel is a solid, affordable base for urban exploring, but if you're looking to relax, it may be worth spending extra for something on the beach. This will be especially true if rates keep creeping-up (I believe they're now typically around $300/nt + taxes/fees).
Food voucher for elites - one voucher per person per night.
View of pool from our west-facing balcony. Kuhio Avenue seen behind it. Parking structure to the right is part of International Market Place.
View from our south-facing balcony. The International Market Place is seen at the bottom/left; it extends nearly all the way to the hotel and provides a nice walking-route towards the beach.
Jan 23, 2018, 8:33 am
#298
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It doesn't look any of the rooms have any ocean view, despite the hotel advertising some rooms as having a Waikiki/partial ocean view.
Jan 23, 2018, 10:52 am
#299
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Location: PHL
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My favorite practice is the "view" rooms in Vegas that are simply on a higher floor, and facing away from the strip 50% of the time.
