I stayed at the W Austin, the week it opened, and have now notched the new JW Marriott Austin too.
This Spectacular hotel opened this month and is very well managed. The helpful front desk Receptionist walked me over to the Concierge/ Bell desk when I asked about Spa treatments. Unfortunately, their Spa is not open yet, but I'll be back when it is. All the Staff at this hotel were respectful and attentive, as expected for a JW hotel.
The Concierge (Executive Club Lounge) is big and beautiful with lots of treats. Great coffee (k -Cups by Keurig). Breakfast was good too, eggs with smoked salmon, yogurt, fruit and freshly baked croissants. In the evening Complimentary hors d'oeuvres with a cocktail from the honor bar is nice. The lounge is available to those that book it included in their rate or complimentary for Gold and Plat Elite members.
The pool on the 5th floor was heated the first day but a bit chilly on the second day. I could see bicycles for rent, on the street, outside the Hotel and will try this on my next visit. This hotel is close to everything downtown. It’s within walking distance to the Austin Convention Center, the Texas State Capitol building, and the famed, lively music bars on 6th street.
Since it opened mid-February and is the largest hotel in Austin, with only 3 elevators to the rooms. My tip is to stay on a lower floor, because I had a long wait for the lift but they were repairing it so that problem won’t be an issue.
By the way, don’t loose your Marriott Points, There are some upcoming changes to the Marriott Rewards program. Starting February 1, 2016, members who do not have qualifying activity in the prior 24 months will forfeit all accumulated points.
Hotel Amenities at this JW are nice! I like the modern key fobs to enter rooms, love the USB ports in the wall next to the bed, (so next time, I don’t have to bring so many chargers) and the huge HDTVs for viewing the full screen to the edge of the TV.
My room only had a shower but next time, I will request a bathroom with both a tub and separate shower.
On the whole, I’d highly recommend staying at the JW Marriott Austin especially for the hordes flocking to Austin for the South by Southwest Festival (SXSW). I would also recommend the Renaissance Hotel, if you want to stay out of the city
