Originally Posted by BlissWorld

I wouldn't get your hopes up (at Westin Tampa Bay by the airport). Yes, its a new property, but the rooms are nothing to write home about. I find the hotel to be extremely noisy with the causeway adjacent to the property. In the evening, you hear nothing but rice rockets ramping up their engines because of the stop light. It's ridiculous. Also, I was not upgraded to a suite (and yes, I asked) even though spg.com clearly stated a standard suite was available for sale (I'm sick of it, whether or not the hotels actually have the suites, don't sell it if you don't have it). The club lounge was lame. In the evening, it was invaded by a group of kids who brought their own alcohol and blasted the lame speakers attached to the computer with ghetto music. I was so appalled that I canceled my reservation for the next evening and moved to the Westin Harbour Island. That was the best decision I had ever made. Feel free to browse through my pictures of the Harbour Island:
www.flickr.com/photos/dunkindonuts Though an older hotel, I enjoyed it more.

To their credit, the staff was very friendly and well trained.

Originally Posted by chanp

Just got an email today from the front end manager asking me if I needed anything and that I was upgraded to a corner suite. Never happened to me before. I just hope when I get to the airport location, Im not too disappointed

Also, in my reservation they show me in a suite and in between my first and last name, they put (VIP). Im moving up a bit, lol.

Originally Posted by BlissWorld

You don't want the corner suite. It's the smaller one. Ask for the larger 1800+ sq ft panoramic suite they gave me. Pics are in my photo album. You will like that one more

Originally Posted by hotelfanatic

Just called about my upcoming July 4th stay. The lady on the phone said the lounge will not be open on July 4th contrary to what I was told about a month ago. She also said the roof is still under construction sono fireworks can be view from there. that sucks now that i have to drive somewhere to view the FWs. BTW - anyone have suggestion for dinner near this hotel (have kids 9 and 12)? Thanks!

Originally Posted by CNWO4LIFE

I am still steaming about this. From spg.com on when you get your list of hotels in Tampa, this is what is written on the Westin Westshore "Waterfront hotel with private beach, rooftop lounge, restaurant, and café, all minutes from Tampa’s airport and business districts."

Nothing to indicate the roof top lounge is closed either.

Originally Posted by jcwik

Two years ago I arrived at the Tampa Airport Embassy Suites the evening of July 4. They told me I would have to go somewhere to see fireworks, but I started to see them out in the Bay--probably about 9:30. I had a wonderful time watching at least ten different shows all around the Bay from St. Pete to Clearwater. You should be able to look outside and watch them this year too. Good luck!
Judi

Originally Posted by hotelfanatic

We switched from the Westin at the airport to Harbour Island downtown for 4th of July activities. We had a great time at channelside - great activities and food (walking distance). The fireworks show was great too. But the biggest surprise was the hotel. Is an older hotel compare to the brand new one at the airport (which we stayed on our last day in Tampa). But the service paid to a Plat was way up there. Best ever! The property manager of the day (Sarah) basically told us that whatever we need let her know and is on the house! My kids couldn't believe it and they took her up in the evening with cookie request and the goods were delievered! She also assigned us the famous 1232 suite. The best way to descibe the suite is that my kids were able to play hide and seek there. We had no regrets in changing to this property even with slow elevators and the dated hallways. My kids will forever remember this property as Sarah's place. ^^

Originally Posted by UA-NYC

So - between the two, any recommendations? Leaning towards the Harbour one (versus Airport), as it seems to be more of a walking area. All in, will probably cost me an extra $100 versus the Airport one. Trying to get any feedback if its worth it...thanks.