When brand uniformity offers a comprehensive approach to travel at all their properties it makes it so much easier to travel. Knowing what to expect reduces logistical preparation on my part because I don’t have the time to research each hotel individually. Business travel should be convenient since, time is of essence. Knowing the hotel brand and category helps and an elite Check-in-Desk speeds things up. Gotta streamline where ever you can to keep ahead of the ratrace.
Staying on the Club Floor and having evening Hors D'oeuvres plus Continental Breakfast in the Club, Regency or concierge Lounge is the best time saver. SPG, Marriott Platinum or Hyatt diamond membership has this advantage.
I like the Marriott brand because it ensures efficient travel. I can feel confident that the Marriott hotels will have a coffee maker, iron, internet, a bath tub, hairdryer, a full length mirror and a familiar floor plan that means that I can find the bathroom in the dark.
I have to digress here by lamenting that I wish more hotel designers would have the consideration to put in a night light in the bathroom. Unfortunately I have only come across 2 hotels that offer this convenient feature.
- The J.W. Marriott Camelback Inn & Spa in Scottsdale, AZ
- The Westin Grand Cape Town Arabella Quays, in South Africa
This is much appreciated when I wake up in the dark, jetlagged and disoriented in the middle of the night and take a few seconds to remember where I am in this world.
Can’t do without amenities that are featured characteristics of upscale hotels are Robes, mini-bar, high speed internet and lighted make-up mirrors.
Sites to help with planning: CitySearch; ClassicVacations.com; idine; Expedia; Hotwire; TravelNow.com; TripAdvisor; Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. ; Out and Out Traveler; Marriott Hotels & Resorts; Renaissance Hotels & Resorts; Marriott Conference Centers; Crowne Plaza and InterContinental Hotels; Hyatt
I understand what you mean about the brands and knowing what to expect. I don't think anyone wants surprises after they have left home. Not the kind of surprise that leaves you without toothpaste or an iron, at nay rate. I remember one time I stayed with a hotel and they didn't provide those small bottles of shampoo. I was surprised because I always get it elsewhere.
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