Twitter

We are the Ultimate Guide to Meaningful and Healthy Travel with Hands-On Travel Advice!

Showing posts with label Hotel Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hotel Review. Show all posts

Saturday, April 27, 2024

Review of Hearth Restaurant in the New Embers Hotel: Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Join us as we review our delightful culinary adventure at Hearth Restaurant, nestled amidst the scenic landscapes of Blowing Rock, North Carolina inside the brand new Embers Hotel. From savoring locally inspired libations to indulging in inventive appetizers, flavorful entrees, and decadent desserts, our experience was a satisfying blend of flavors and hospitality. Let us take you on a journey through each aspect of our visit, sharing insights and highlights along the way. A link to our full video experience is at the end of this post!





1. Embracing Warmth and Hospitality:

Step into The Hearth and immerse yourself in a cozy ambiance that exudes warmth and hospitality. From the welcoming smiles of the staff to the inviting decor, every detail is designed to make you feel right at home. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner for two or a gathering with friends, The Hearth offers the perfect setting for any occasion.

2. Crafted Libations:

Quench your thirst with expertly crafted libations at The Hearth's bar. Sip on signature cocktails inspired by the flavors of North Carolina or choose from an impressive selection of local wines and craft beers. Indulge in creative concoctions like the "Smoky Old Fashioned," featuring bourbon, pecan-smoked maple syrup, Magnolia bitters, and a charred orange peel, or the refreshing "Spirited Lavender Lemonade," made with gin, lavender, lemon, blueberry, and basil.

Enchanted Flame on the Terrace

Left to right: Appalachian Burro, Bleu Smoke, Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon

Spirited Lavender Lemonade

3. Appetizers to Tempt the Palate:

Begin your culinary journey with a tantalizing selection of appetizers that showcase the best of local and seasonal ingredients. Savor the Mediterranean-inspired flavors of the "Warm Coquillos Olives," infused with rosemary, garlic, red chili flakes, sundried tomatoes, and roasted red peppers. For a taste of indulgence, indulge in the "Artisanal Cheese and Charcuterie Board," featuring a variety of artisanal cheeses, savory meats, marcona almonds, mustard, local honey, and grilled baguette. Our favorite was the Burrata with pistachio pesto, lemon and asparagus!

Menu

Wine List (Reds)

Cocktail Menu

Warm Coquillos Olives

Charcuterie Board

Burrata

4. Entrees: A Culinary Symphony:

Indulge in an array of entrees that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of North Carolina. Sink your teeth into the "Coffee-Rubbed Fillet of Beef," tender and juicy, complemented perfectly with creamy Yukon Gold mashed potatoes and roasted heirloom carrots. For a taste of comfort, savor the "High Country Turkey Meatloaf," served with buttermilk mashed potatoes, smoky maple glaze, and crispy tobacco onions.

Coffee Rubbed Filet of Beef

Pappardelle with Braised Short Ribs

Turkey Meatloaf (our favorite!)

5. Sweet Endings:

Save room for dessert and treat yourself to a decadent finale that will satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Indulge in the "Chocolate-Dipped Sugared Waffle," a playful combination of warm, crispy waffle dipped in rich chocolate, paired with cool vanilla ice cream. For a refreshing twist, delight in the "Lemon Cheesecake," light and tangy with a delicate Chantilly cream and candied lemon garnish.



Sugared Waffle

6. Unique Spirited Treats:

Experience a culinary innovation like no other with The Hearth's spirited treats, offering a delightful twist on traditional desserts. Venture outside onto the terrace and indulge in a sweet indulgence infused with spirits, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience. These spirited treats are exclusive to The Hearth and offer a perfect blend of sweet indulgence and sophisticated flavors. Savor the "Sunset & Main," a sweet sensation inspired by the cross streets of Blowing Rock, featuring blood orange sorbet, pink port, candy ginger, lemon zest, lavender, and a touch of gold. Watch in awe as the port is added with a unique applicator, enhancing the dessert's visual appeal and flavor profile. For chocolate lovers, the "Ruby Delight" is a dream come true, boasting chocolate ice cream, a chocolate macaron, ruby port chocolate drizzle, hazelnut, and a hint of rose, all enhanced with a squeeze of ruby port. These spirited treats offer a one-of-a-kind dining experience that is sure to delight the senses and leave a lasting impression.

Sunset & Main

Ruby Delight

7. Our Experience at The Hearth:

Allow us to share our firsthand experience and insights from our unforgettable culinary journey at The Hearth Restaurant. As enthusiasts of fine cuisine, we found our visit to be thoroughly enjoyable, with several key highlights worth noting. See our entire visit here:



Atmosphere and Service: The ambiance at The Hearth was inviting, with cozy interiors and a beautiful terrace providing a pleasant dining environment. The service was attentive and friendly, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.

Libations and Appetizers: We were impressed by the variety and quality of libations offered at The Hearth's bar. The cocktails were expertly crafted, and the selection of locally inspired drinks added to the overall charm of the establishment. The appetizers were well-prepared and presented, offering a satisfying start to our meal.

Entrees and Desserts: The entrees we sampled were flavorful and well-executed, showcasing the culinary expertise of the kitchen staff. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared, and the quality of ingredients was evident in every bite. While our experience at The Hearth was enjoyable, we believe that expanding the entree menu to offer more variety would enhance the dining experience, as we know individuals with diverse preferences may struggle to find dishes that cater to their taste.  Desserts provided a sweet conclusion to our meal, with options that catered to a variety of preferences and we especially love the idea of getting a spirited treat on the terrace after dinner at Hearth or any time we are in Blowing Rock.

While we didn't have brunch, it is served daily at Hearth.



Conclusion:

In conclusion, our experience at The Hearth was positive overall. While there were some standout moments, such as the quality of libations and the attentive service, we also found room for improvement in certain areas. Nonetheless, we would recommend The Hearth to those seeking a pleasant dining experience in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Let us know what you think in the comments below! Book your room at the Embers' website: https://www.hotelembers.com/ or call at: (828) 372-8000. Reserve Hearth at www.opentable.com

Check out our Luxury Cruise & Travel Essentials Amazon Storefront here! We add products daily! 

Friday, April 19, 2024

Tour and Review of One-Bedroom Suite at the Best Hotel in Blowing Rock, North Carolina: The Embers Hotel

Welcome to our latest adventure! Today, we're thrilled to take you on a virtual tour of one of the most charming destinations we've had the pleasure to visit – Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, this picturesque town is home to the Embers Hotel, a gem of hospitality and luxury and maybe the best hotel in Blowing Rock. Join us as we explore the exquisite details of one of the hotel's finest offerings – Suite number 212.



1. Suite Overview:

Step into Suite 212, and you're greeted with an aura of sophistication and comfort. As the largest room in the Embers Hotel, this suite boasts spacious living quarters that can accommodate up to four guests. Inside you will find a spacious living area and a serene bedroom, seamlessly connected to provide the ultimate in relaxation and convenience. The highlight of this expansive suite is undoubtedly its large bathroom, accessible from both rooms through two entrances, offering a sense of indulgence and privacy unrivaled by traditional accommodations. With adjoining doors and balconies, it offers flexibility for larger groups or families seeking a retreat in the mountains. The convertible sofa in Suite 212 offers additional sleeping arrangements, providing versatility for accommodating extra guests or families traveling together. The attentive staff at Embers Hotel are readily available to assist guests with setting up the convertible sofa, ensuring a seamless transition to a comfortable sleeping area. The mini refrigerator in Suite 212 is spacious enough to accommodate a selection of snacks, beverages, and even a bottle of wine, providing guests with convenient access to refreshments during their stay.



2. Luxurious Amenities:

From the moment you enter, the suite delights with its array of amenities. In the bedroom area, stone-crafted hooks and ample storage reflect the hotel's attention to detail. And let's not forget the cozy sitting area, where a flickering fireplace sets the scene for intimate moments. The bathroom in Suite 212 is nothing short of a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Adorned with sleek fixtures and bathed in soft, natural light, it beckons guests to unwind after a day of exploration. The centerpiece of this space is undoubtedly the lavish rain shower, which cascades with a gentle, soothing rhythm, transporting guests to a state of tranquility. Premium toiletries from Grown Alchemist, renowned for their quality and sophistication, await guests, providing a sensory journey of pampering and indulgence. As guests retire to the bedroom area, they are greeted by a haven of comfort and elegance. The bed, adorned with plush bedding and crisp linens, promises a restful night's sleep. Sink into the embrace of luxury as you envelop yourself in the soft embrace of the Embers' signature robes and slippers, providing the perfect conclusion to a day of exploration and adventure.




3. Technological Marvels:

Embracing modern comforts, Suite 212 seamlessly integrates technology into its design. Remote-controlled blinds, flat-screen televisions, and adjustable fireplace settings cater to guests' preferences with the touch of a button. These innovations enhance the overall experience, blending convenience with elegance. Throughout Suite 212, convenience meets sophistication with multiple outlets strategically placed to accommodate guests' modern needs. From USB ports beside the bedside stands to HDMI and USBC outlets near the flat-screen televisions, every detail is thoughtfully designed to ensure seamless connectivity and functionality.




4. Dual Balcony Delights:

Step outside onto the suite's balconies, and you're greeted with sweeping views of downtown Blowing Rock. Whether you prefer a private retreat or a gathering space with friends, these outdoor sanctuaries offer the perfect setting. Rocking chairs and occasional tables beckon you to unwind amidst the beauty of the High Country.



5. Expansive Accommodations: Combining Suites for Additional Space

For guests seeking an even more spacious retreat, Suite 212 offers the unique option of combining with the adjacent room, effectively doubling its capacity. By unlocking the adjoining door and balcony, guests can seamlessly merge the two suites into a sprawling haven for up to six individuals. This flexibility caters to larger groups or families traveling together, providing ample space to spread out and unwind in the comfort of Embers Hotel's luxurious accommodations. Whether it's a family reunion or a group getaway, the ability to combine suites ensures that every guest's needs are met with grace and style.





6. Restaurant: The Hearth

Let's not forget the culinary treasure awaiting guests at Embers Hotel: its onsite restaurant. Amidst Blowing Rock's hospitality landscape, where such amenities are rare, this addition elevates the experience to a new level of convenience and luxury. With locally sourced ingredients and a menu designed to delight, dining here becomes an unforgettable journey of flavors and indulgence, ensuring every moment of your stay is truly exceptional.




Conclusion:

Our journey through Suite 212 at the Embers Hotel has been nothing short of enchanting. From its opulent amenities to its technological marvels, every aspect of this space exudes luxury and comfort. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or simply a moment of tranquility in nature, this suite offers an unparalleled experience. As we bid farewell to Blowing Rock, we carry with us memories of warmth, hospitality, and the promise of future adventures. Join us again soon as we continue to explore the world's hidden treasures. Until next time, happy travels! Book your room at the Embers' website: https://www.hotelembers.com/ or call at: (828) 372-8000.

Check out our Luxury Cruise & Travel Essentials Amazon Storefront here! We add products daily! 



Wednesday, May 4, 2022

Pendry Spa Park City Canyons Review, Guide, & How to Book in 2023 in Utah near Deer Valley

We have frequented hotel spas around the world, places like the Four Seasons in Chicago, Mandarin Oriental in Las Vegas and Boston, Waldorf Astoria in Shanghai, Ritz Carlton Ranch Mirage and the Langham Hotel in London, just to name a few.  Montage International is a newer brand that stands out. Featuring a distinctive collection of hospitality brands, Montage International encompasses the ultra-luxury brand Montage Hotels & Resorts, the new luxury hospitality brand, Pendry Hotels, Montage Residences, and Pendry Residences. Pendry Hotels is a collection of new luxury hotels for today’s world traveler located in existing destinations including: Pendry San Diego, Sagamore Pendry Baltimore and Pendry West Hollywood, with Pendry Manhattan West and Pendry Park City opened in early 2022 and Pendry Natirar opening in 2022. While staying at a private residence in Park City, Utah, we were pleased to try the newest hotel spa in this ski Mecca and get some much needed TLC for our bodies after a long ski week. 




Pendry Park City, the brand's first year-round mountain resort located in the heart of Canyons Village at Park City Mountain and opened in January of 2022. It is always a pleasure to experience brand new facilities, which we hope will have the newest amenities and clean crisp facilities. We spent a few evenings at the Pendry Park City, enjoying it's apres ski offerings, rooftop views, cocktails and Kita, its Japanese-inspired upscale restaurant. 



From the greetings received from the Valet, to the Spa Pendry reception and technicians...service and amenities are wonderful but the facility is small and not very warm, considering it's mountain location. Overall our experience was excellent, but we expected more. 

Saturday, April 16, 2022

Conrad Las Vegas Resorts World Hotel Review, Guide, & How to Book in 2023 on the Strip

 

The Conrad at Resorts World in Las Vegas is a new offering from Hilton's boutique luxury line. It reopened in August 2021 after a full renovation and rebrand of the property formerly known as The Stardust.


Now the site is three hotels in one: Hilton, Conrad and Crockfords (the only British Crockfords in the USA). The property had been the site of the Stardust Resort and Casino until 2007, when Boyd Gaming demolished the resort to develop its Echelon Place project. Boyd halted construction in 2008 due to poor economic conditions and sold the property to Genting Group in March 2013.  Plans slowly came and went. Construction stalled multiple times. For a while, the parking garage just stood there without much happening. An idea for a panda exhibit was floated (there isn't one). Between all the stops and starts, Resorts World threatened to be another failed project in a post-recession Las Vegas like the Fountain Blue eyesore nearby.  After so much uncertainty, the project finally gathered momentum and even a COVID pandemic couldn't slow it down.  We were lucky enough to enjoy this combination hotel, theatre, event space and of course, casino recently, and understand the potential for this location to add sparkle to the north end of the Las Vegas strip. 




1. Location

Saturday, April 2, 2022

Pendry San Diego Hotel Review, Guide, & How to Book in 2023 in the Gaslamp Quarter

During the pandemic, domestic travel became popular but the hospitality industry has been slow to get back in gear in terms of service.  How many of you have stayed at establishments where dining, housekeeping, concierge and more have not lived up to the standards you experienced prior to 2020? Some luxury brands have capitalized on the slower return of many companies and to Luxury Travel Docs, the difference between brands has been very clear in 2021. Montage International is a brand that stands out. Featuring a distinctive collection of hospitality brands, Montage International encompasses the ultra-luxury brand Montage Hotels & Resorts, the new luxury hospitality brand, Pendry Hotels, Montage Residences, and Pendry Residences.  Opening in 2016, the Pendry San Diego is convenient, comfortable and tasteful, everything we wanted for a recent visit to one of our favorite cities in California. 


The brand is new but on the move! Founded in 2015, Pendry Hotels is a collection of new luxury hotels for today’s world traveler located in existing destinations including: Pendry San Diego, Sagamore Pendry Baltimore and Pendry West Hollywood, with Pendry Manhattan West and Pendry Park City opened in early 2022 and Pendry Natirar opening in 2022.




                 

We've stayed at many boutique hotels over the years, some of which have bore witness to absolutely amazing events, like the Southern Hotel in Covington, Louisiana, and Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, and the Pendry San Diego is the latest to add to our list.  This laid-back luxurious hotel is one of our favorite picks when it comes to downtown San Diego hotels. It is located in a prime spot at the southern tip of the Gaslamp Quarter, which puts you a short walk from a Padres game, the San Diego Convention Center, vibrant nightlife, and some of the city's best restaurants.







1. Location


The Pendry San Diego is centrally located in Gaslamp quarter of San Diego near the San Diego Convention Center and the Embarcadero. Beloved attractions, like the Midway and Maritime museums, and Seaport Village are within walking distance. Petco Park, home to the San Diego Giants of the MLB National League can be seen from your hotel window. After dark, the city transforms into a sophisticated playground for adults. With an endless variety of posh night clubs, music venues and rooftop bars, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a memorable night out after a day of meetings or exploring. The Pendry is an easy Uber from San Diego International Airport and will cost about $15. 




2. Check-in


We were greeted promptly and checked in without difficulty from very accommodating employees wearing masks appropriately. The front desk was compliant with COVID-19 policies, unlike other hotels we have stayed at since the pandemic started. We were recognized as iPrefer elite members and as booking through American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts immediately.  The staff member instructed us about the amenities and upgrades we received and answered all of our questions about the immediate area for site seeing and dining.  It was warm in San Antonio and complimentary water was provided to us on arrival as well as anytime required during our stay. 

The charm and design of The Pendry is evident immediately upon arrival and deserves an entire section of this article (Read on)!



Tuesday, February 22, 2022

Marriott Fort Lauderdale Airport at Dania Pointe is an Ideal Hotel Located Near Port Everglades for Cruises

During the pandemic, domestic travel became popular but the hospitality industry has been slow to get back in gear in terms of service.  As the CDC has lifted their Conditional Sailing Order, cruising has been slowly returning to pre pandemic levels. How many of you have cruised out of Port Everglades prior to 2020? Most people have their ideas of what they are looking for in a pre-cruise hotel. We'll go over what some of the most common requirements are and debunk any myths that you may believe when you cruise out of Port Everglades.  We stayed at the brand new Marriott hotel located at Dana Pointe in Dania Beach Florida, which opened in October 2021. We were so pleased with this hotel that we felt it was important to give you a review for your future cruising out of Port Everglades. If so, you probably realized that Fort Lauderdale International Airport is uber close to the Port. Also, many hotels have airport shuttles.  Even less have cruise port shuttles, and if they do, the charge is $15 per person or more. We prefer to stay at a hotel near the airport or beach before our Port Everglades cruises. If a complimentary shuttle is available, wonderful, but otherwise we use Uber which doesn't cost much for such close proximity.  Plus, we love a newer hotel with shopping and restaurants within walking distance. 


We've stayed at many cruise port hotels over the years, some of which have bore witness to absolutely amazing events, like Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, a Curio Collection by Hilton, opened in 2018 and is situated in the oldest part of Reykjavík at the junction of Icelandic history and style. In Fort Lauderdale, we love convenience to the airport and port, but with quality and new amenities.  The Marriott Fort Lauderdale Airport Dania Pointe exceeded our expectations!



Check reviews and make a reservation for the Marriott Fort Lauderdale Airport Dania Pointe by clicking here!


1. Location


The Marriott Fort Lauderdale airport at Dania Pointe is an ideal hotel and is perfectly situated for those cruising out of port Everglades. The hotel itself has a complementary airport shuttle and make sure that when you get your luggage at the airport you call them immediately to come pick you up. It is a shared shuttle with the Marriott AC Hotel which is connected to the Marriott. The hotels location in Dania Pointe is perfect for staying one night before your cruise. Once you land and unpack it's easy to walk to shopping, restaurants and bars which are delightful once you arrive in the breezy south Florida weather.  Its location is ideal for getting to Port Everglades either via the cruise port shuttle or using Uber. Please note that the cruise port shuttle is not complementary at the Marriott or the Marriott AC. The charge for the cruise port shuttle was $30 per person. In our opinion Uber which is less than $20 is a better option. For that matter using Uber at any location on the beach, or near the cruise port is generally more cost-effective. There are very few hotels that offer a free airport shuttle AND a free cruise port shuttle these days. 


2. Check-in


We were greeted promptly and checked in without difficulty from very accommodating employees wearing masks appropriately. The front desk was compliant with COVID-19 policies, unlike other hotels we have stayed at since the pandemic started. We were recognized as Convoy elite members immediately.  The staff member instructed us about the amenities and upgrades we received and answered all of our questions about the immediate area for site seeing and dining.  

The freshness and newness of this Marriott is evident immediately upon arrival!

\



Saturday, October 16, 2021

The New JW Marriott in Uptown Charlotte is Another Great Addition to the Queen City’s growing Luxury Market


Right in the heart of Uptown—the downtown district of Charlotte—sits the JW Marriott Charlotte Hotel. This luxury hotel in Charlotte overlooks Panthers Bank of America Stadium, is mere steps away from the Mint Museum Uptown, Hornets Spectrum Center and Knights BB&T Ballpark, and is surrounded by fantastic restaurants, museums and theaters.


JW Marriott Hotels is one of Bonvoy's lifestyle brands, named after Marriott's founder, and this newer Charlotte hotel and rooftop bar is sure to please travelers of all styles.  Inspired by Queen Charlotte, the city's namesake, the JW Marriott Charlotte evokes the 18th century British queen consort through classic textiles balanced with a modern sensibility. While we loved the Kimpton Tryon Park hotel, there is some new competition in the Queen City. Noticeably absent from the Charlotte luxury market? Hilton Hotels. 







1. Location


This location is outstanding to attend sporting events in Charlotte being directly adjacent to Bank of America Stadium and the Spectrum Center. Not a sports fan? There are plenty of other activities nearby with frequent concerts, live stage productions, opera, symphony and museums. Charlotte is a great destination for foodies and the uptown area is loaded with options within walking distance or a short Uber.  The front auto entrance and valet isn't easy to find so look closely at the corner of S. College Street and E. Stonewall Street on your left on College, immediately before you stop at the light for Stonewall. Since this is a popular location with a small valet, there may be a line to enter! 




2. Check-in


We were greeted promptly and checked in without difficulty from very accommodating employees wearing masks appropriately. The hotel had only opened one month before and managerial staff was everywhere. Appropriately, we were recognized as elite Bonvoy member, and thanked for our loyalty.  The staff oriented us to the hotel and the surrounding area. The hotel itself had COVID restrictions such as not providing housekeeping services, but this was not relayed to us. Finding the check in desk isn't easy if you self park which we attempted initially. We walked everywhere to find the entrance and ultimately found access to an upper floor through one of the restaurants - our advice if you self park...ask directions from anyone you may see because there are no signs directing you to the lobby.  Even better, use valet parking.  The price is pretty much the same but if you want quick access to your vehicle, use the self parking option.  The valet stand was pretty slow and due to the small size of the valet area, we waited for significant time to leave our car or have car brought to us. The hotel is busy with guests and locals visiting the bars and restaurants. 





Saturday, August 7, 2021

Convenient and Comfortable Oasis in the Middle of Reykjavik: The Konsulat Hotel is the Perfect Base for Exploring Iceland


Iceland was one of the first countries to reopen to tourists after the worldwide pandemic with certain requirements for quarantine or proof of vaccination.  Shortly after the reopening, offers for cruises, land tours and low cost airfares flooded our inbox.  We opted for a Viking Ocean cruise for the itinerary and because Viking had set the bar early on for its COVID-19 precautions. Because of the 4 hour time difference with an overnight flight to Reykjavik, we opted for a comfortable stay in the capital of Iceland prior to boarding our cruise. The Konsulat Hotel met our standards for location, luxury and amenities.


We've stayed at many boutique hotels over the years, some of which have bore witness to absolutely amazing events, like the Southern Hotel in Covington, Louisiana, and Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, a Curio Collection by Hilton, opened in 2018 and is situated in the oldest part of Reykjavík at the junction of Icelandic history and style. The reconstruction of this building, which in the 19th and 20th century housed a grand department store run by Consul Thomsen and his family, was completed in 2018.


The Sun Voyager sculpture on the Reykjavik waterfront





1. Location


The Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel centrally located in the oldest and most-visited part of Reykjavik. The most beloved attractions, like the Harpa Concert Hall and Hallgrimskirkja church, restaurants and day-tour bus stops are within walking distance. They are next to the popular Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dogs (in fact we could see it from our window). Reykjavik is safe and easy to walk.  Reykjavik is located about 45 minutes from the airport and it is possible to take the FlyBus, but we opted for a car service prearranged with Hreyfill. 

Hallgrimskirkja church

2. Check-in


We were greeted promptly and checked in without difficulty from very accommodating employees wearing masks appropriately. Unfortunately our room was not ready for about 1.5 hours since we arrived early.  The staff told us we could enjoy breakfast in the dining room if we wished, and that was a pleasant place to wait.  Another option was that we could spend time in the indoor bath (geothermal spas are very common in Iceland) and sauna where we could nap or shower if we wished. The entire staff is eager to engage you and tell you about the hotel's history or make you comfortable.  They are proud of the hotel, Iceland reopening and it shows in their enthusiasm. Since it is a Hilton-affiliated property, we were greeted and treated appropriately for our Hilton status. The staff oriented us to the hotel and the surrounding area. The hotel itself had no COVID restrictions such as not providing housekeeping services, and this was a refreshing change from our recent stays in the USA.