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The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa received a Real Traveler rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 107 reviews from across the web. Highly recommended by Real Travel, this hotel is a great fit for business and leisure travelers.

A newer Resort to the Phoenix area, the Westin Kierland is designed to have an older feel with modern amenities. Filled with the history and culture of Arizona, guests can embark on a full walking tour around the hotel. With the help of official state historian, Marshal Trimble, guests can familiarize themselves with Arizona’s rich past. Stephanie Dowling, Director of Public Relations at the Resort, explains that Scottish immigrants were responsible for helping to develop Arizona’s railroad system. To honor these immigrants, a bag pipe is played at the Resort, for one hour at sunset every day. In addition, adults can enjoy scotch tasting on saturday nights, and kids can have fun with “Scotty” the mascot.

In the heart of new Scottsdale, next door to two high end shopping malls, the Westing Kierland boasts of an award-winning golf course and a fabulous spa. The designated “Chief of Fun Officer” is there to make sure kids enjoy their stay too! This year round, award-winning program offers entertainment for kids of all age levels. Some popular activities include: Animal Yoga, Digital Kid’s Zone, and Kids in the Kitchen. The “Chief of Fun officer” also helps to decorate hotel rooms for those traveling with children. These decorations include bathtub art for the kids, as well as towel design animals. One guest comments, “It appeared that resort staff did an excellent job keeping the families busy, which in turn created a lot of peace and quiet for adults.” Staff members at the hotel are empowered to do whatever it takes to ensure that guests are satisfied with their stay.

With a variety of unique guest packages, there is something for everyone at the Westin Kierland. The most popular package is the “Babymoon” package, in which couples take a second honeymoon before their baby arrives. This package partners with the local shopping centers, includes in-room ice cream sundaes, and a couple’s massage.

Enjoy excellent customer service and endless amenities at the Westin Kierland, where Arizona’s past is pleasantly portrayed in the present.

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Source: Teresa Nielsen

With a Real Traveler rating of 4 out of 5 based on 894 reviews, the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill is a highly recommended hotel on Real Travel. After interviewing Tammy Hagin, Director of Public Relations at the hotel, I can’t help but be amazed by the hotel’s commitment, not only to its customers, but to the environment as well.

Only two and a half blocks away from Capital Hill and the National Mall, the Hyatt Regency is an ideal hotel for business and leisure travelers alike. Upon entering the hotel, visitors will be amazed by the beauty of its atrium, and those with time to spare enjoy sitting in the lounge and people watching–as this hotel has a “high buzz atmosphere” with plenty of political activity taking place. For those who want to feel as though they are part of the action, the lobby is a great place to sight Congressmen.

Guests will also love the 37 inch flat screen television in their room. For those looking to venture out of their rooms, the hotel’s 8,000 square foot fitness center is the place to be! One of the largest hotel fitness centers in the area, guests can relax in the sauna, or taking a dip in the pool.

Going above and beyond, the Hyatt Regency is one of two Green Seal Certified hotels in Washington D.C. After renovating the hotel in 2008, designers took extra steps to make the hotel environmentally friendly. From low flush toilets, water-saving shower heads, an advanced chiller system, to kitchen composting –this hotel goes the extra mile to when it comes to caring for the environment.

Customer service at the hotel received 4.2 out of 5 stars. If guests have a problem at the hotel, they are encourage to express their dissatisfaction, as hotel staff has been given the authority to make decisions on a higher level. In one instance, a guest at the hotel had asthma problems and had requested that his room be free from feather products and deodorizing sprays. When hotel staff found out that this guest was going to be visiting another Hyatt hotel in another location, they called the other Hyatt to inform them of the guest’s needs ahead of time. By giving guests a more personalized service, visitors “feel as though they are the only guest at the hotel.” One guest comments, “Very friendly staff willing to answer any questions you have and help make your stay plesant.”

For those looking for a “high-energy hotel environment, in one of the most powerful cities”–the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill is the place for you!

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Source: Teresa Nielsen

Newly renovated in 2009, Days Inn of Elk Grove, Illinois has received a Real Traveler rating of 3.6 out of 5 from 67 reviews across the web.

The Days Inn is the perfect place for budget travelers who are looking for a quality stay. Jodie Moore, Sales Manager at the hotel, interacts with guests on a daily basis and build relationships in order to ensure that guests’ expectations are exceeded. She elaborates, “The old saying that you get what you pay for isn’t always true.” Moore explains that the words “budget hotel” and “economy hotel” aren’t to be viewed as “bad words.” Instead, guests at the Days Inn Elk Grove get more than their money’s worth. Described as having a warm and sunny atmosphere, the hotel is a great fit for those who don’t want to break their budget. With complimentary breakfast, free wi-fi internet, and coffee service 24 hours a day, the hotel strives to accomodate low budget travelers. One guest describes the hotel as “Super clean, spacious, comfortable rooms, nice breakfast, and excellent customer service.”

Those traveling with pets will be pleased to hear about the “Pets Package” as the hotel wishes to “include everyone in the family whether they have fur or not.” From toys and treats to food and water bowls, as well as a guide to the area’s dog parks, this package is perfect for pet-lovers!

Continuing its commitment to its customers, the Days Inn Elk Grove makes an effort to get to know their guests, as each guest is treated as a person, “not a confirmation number.” One example of outstanding customer service occured last November. One guest, who had an extended stay at the hotel, struck up a friendship with the front desk clerk, Mary. When Mary realized that the guest had no where to go for Thanksgiving dinner, she invited the guest to her family’s home to share in their Thanksgiving festivities. Going out of her way to make a guest feel like family, Mary is a prime example of superior customer service at the Days Inn Elk Grove.

For those looking for a hotel that won’t break the bank, and goes above and beyond the old adage of “getting what you pay for,” the Days Inn Elk Grove is the perfect choice.

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Source: Teresa Nielsen

With a Real Traveler rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 158 reviews from across the web, the Embassy Suites LAX North is a highly recommended hotel on Real Travel.

Centered around a beautiful atrium, the hotel provides a magnificent garden setting complete with a waterfall and pond. The sound of the waterfall trickling down creates a rather serene hotel atmosphere amongst the busy world of Los Angeles. Chris Danison, E-Commerce Manager for the hotel, describes it best as “Guests can relax in the atrium while listening to soft music or the soothing sounds of the waterfall, or can conduct business in the many convenient places to sit. Lunch and dinner can be served in the atrium as well. However, the atrium is truly alive in the mornings when we serve our complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast. Our chefs cook omelets to order, as well as many other breakfast staples. Evenings in the atrium are also enjoyable, as we host our Manager’s Reception, featuring complimentary munchies and cocktails.” Clearly, the Embassy Suites exceeds expectations when it comes to creating a welcoming atmosphere and social environment for guest to enjoy.

With super spacious rooms, this hotel is a great match for business, family, and leisure travelers. Each room is a two bedroom suite with a living area and sleeping area. In addition, each living space has its own sleeper sofa, perfect for accommodating larger groups of people.

Besides complimentary breakfast and evening cocktails, guests also take advantage of the free airport shuttle that runs 24 hours a day. Hotel rooms are equipped with high speed internet access and pay-per-view movies are available to guests as well. One satisfied guest comments, “Excellant service from staff, restaurant is very pleasing to the taste buds, shuttle service is superb.”

When it comes to hospitality, the Embassy Suites LAX North receives high marks. Chris explains, “We are in the business of customer service, and we are here to make sure our guests are taken care of and happy. It all starts at the front desk where each guest is welcomed with a smile. This warmth of hospitality lives in the entire staff. If you don’t see something you like in the restaurant, our Executive Chef, Juan Cruz, will put something together that is to your liking. Our Catering Manager, Katherine Ko, recently burnt the midnight oil preparing for an onsite wedding, knowing that this day was extra special for the bride and groom.” Not afraid to go the extra mile, hotel staff puts great effort into making guests feel right at home.

Described as a “spacious, all-suite hotel located near LAX Airport and central to all that Los Angeles has to offer,” the Embassy Suites LAX North is sure to satisfy any kind of traveler.

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Source: Teresa Nielsen

After speaking with Bruce Fery, Executive Vice President of Grand America Hotels and Resorts, it is easy to see why the Grand America Hotel in Utah has received a Real Traveler rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 46 reviews from across the web.

The hotel prides itself on great attention to detail in both its hotel property as well as its staff. With 775 guest rooms, 380 of which are dubbed “Premier,” the hotel provides plenty of space for its visitors. The smallest room available at this hotel is 700 square feet– compare this to the typical 320 square feet offered by hotel chains. Extravagant in nature, visitors are amazed by the overall elegance of The Grand America Hotel. With no expense spared in the design of this hotel, guests enjoy beautiful italian marble bathrooms, chandeliers imported from Murano and Milan, and hand crafted furnishings, all of which contribute to the “European boutique hotel feel on an American scale.”

Conveniently located in the heart of Salt Lake City, The Grand America Hotel is only 9 minutes from the airport, and 20 minutes from six world-class ski resorts. Even better, the hotel is located within 50 feet of the Trax station, Utah’s light-rail transportation service.

This grandiose hotel boasts of excellent service. Staff at the hotel exude the “Utah Spirit” of sincerity and genuine concern. The Grand America Hotel even has a designated Director of Guest Experience and Grand Ambassador. Three to five days before guests are due to arrive at the hotel, the Grand Ambassador contacts the guest to inquire about any personal needs the guest may have. These needs include: type of pillow, food requests, restaurant suggestions, and rental car reservations–to name a few. The hotel also asks about the guests’ arrival time, to ensure that guests receive a proper welcoming. In other words, it’s as if hotel guests have their own personal concierge. One guest describes, “From the moment of arrival to leaving, everything was perfect - people, room, food, atmosphere, and the grounds and pool area are the nicest I’’ve ever seen.”

For guests looking to book in advance, the popular “Advanced Purchase Package” allows for great rates when booking 21, 14, or 7 days ahead of time. Guests also enjoy the Ski Package, which includes one lift ticket to Snowbasin and complimentary access to The Grand Spa.

Whether catering to business or leisure travelers, The Grand America Hotel clearly demonstrates its “Commitment to Excellence” in every aspect, from its luxurious rooms to its personalized concierge service.

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Source: Teresa Nielsen

Real Travelers rated the Holiday Inn Pittsburg Airport a 3.9 out of 5 based on 97 reviews from across the web. With such great reviews, one might wonder what makes this hotel a highly recommended hotel?

Craig Poole, the self described “ever-present” General Manager of the Holiday Inn Pittsburg Airport, explains that the hotel’s essence is based on “Caring by nature, empathy with practice.” Hotel staff members work hard to make their guests as comfortable as possible when staying in a new setting. The hotel strives to create a level of hospitality, in which all guests are “recognized and appreciated.” Poole describes a time when one guest’s dry cleaning was not picked up on time. As a result, one of the front desk clerks went out, bought the dry cleaning supplies, and personally dry-cleaned the guest’s clothing. Such remarkable efforts have landed this hotel within the top ten percent of Holiday Inn’s nationwide.

Located just five miles from the airport, the Holiday Inn Pittsburg is a 256 room, boutique-like hotel. With a jacuzzi, and a twenty-five meter indoor pool– the largest in the area, the hotel’s amenities are sure to keep visitors entertained. The hotel itself is themed “In a City of Firsts, You’re Our First Priority.” With this in mind, visitors can enjoy a stroll through the hotel’s art gallery of “Firsts of Pittsburgh” and admire the history of this great city. For example, visitors can view images of the first radio station and gas station of Pittsburgh. Whatever accommodations guests may need, hotel staff makes sure it’s top priority.

One of the hotel’s best offerings is the ever-popular Park and Fly package. This package allows guests to begin their vacation at the Holiday Inn Pittsburgh, leave their car at the hotel, and catch a flight out of the Pittsburgh Airport. Besides parking, also included in the package are two drinks and appetizers at the Iron City Grille and a free shuttle ride to and from the airport. Such an original package is sure to help visitors who do not want to deal with the hassle of airport parking. One visitor comments, “This Hotel has a combination of location and service that greatly reduces the stress of early morning flights.” Guests will also have fun with the “Best of Pittsburgh” goodie basket, complete with treats such as cd’s from local bands, famous candies, and other Pittsburgh souvenirs. Such packages allow visitors to have a rather unique experience in Pittsburgh.

With excellent offerings and superior service, the Holiday Inn Pittsburgh Airport has what it takes to be one of Real Travel’s highly recommended hotels.

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Source: Teresa Nielsen

Located just four blocks from Disneyland, the Residence Inn Anaheim is a great hotel for family vacations. Real Traveler’s rate this hotel a 4.4 out of 5 based on 97 reviews from across the web.

An interesting fact about this hotel: more than half of the rooms in the hotel are two bedroom suites. With this said, there are four different types of two bedroom suites, the smallest fitting six people, the largest fitting eight guests. This is perfect for large families who are traveling, as everyone can be accommodated in one suite, rather than two separate hotel rooms. In addition, the hotel’s large dining area makes it easy for families to have a sit-down meal together. Families will also enjoy the on-site movie theatre (popcorn included) that is open from 6-8pm every Thursday through Saturday. Even better, guests love the ice cream social. This allows hotel staff to become acquainted with guests and establish relationships while snacking on some savory scoops of ice cream. In one instance, a guest at the social expressed concern because her husband was sick, and she was running back and forth, between the hotel and Disneyland with her kids. Taking note of this, staff members delivered soup to the guest’s sick husband, demonstrating their concern for their clients.

Attracting mostly family travelers, the Residence Inn Anaheim has a special promotion, rewarding kids who do well in school. Kids who got a 3.0 or above on their report card, within the last year, receive 10% off their hotel stay. Government travelers also frequent this hotel with their family members, as the Residence Inn Anaheim honors the government’s per diem rate.

A few extras— The hotel also includes a full buffet style breakfast, a sports court complete with basketball and volleyball equipment, as well as complimentary barbecue grills for those who wish to enjoy the sunny Southern California weather. For those looking to venture out, the hotel is just two blocks away from the convention center, and within a half mile there are about 25 different restaurants to choose from.

Brian Wagoner, Director of Sales and Marketing at the hotel, describes the Residence Inn as the “ideal location for families when traveling to Anaheim.” With the perfect location, and plenty of activities for the kids, it’s no wonder families chose to stay at this hotel.

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Source: Teresa Nielsen

Grand Hyatt DFW must be doing something right! With a Real Traveler rating of 4.8 out of 5, based on 20 reviews from across the web, guests can’t help but rave about this hotel!

Vince Vito, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Grand Hyatt, tells Real Travel that guests are usually surprised when they walk into the hotel. He explains, “Airport hotels do not always have a positive connotation.” However, when guests visit the Grand Hyatt, they are taken back by the appearance and atmosphere, as it has the feel of a boutique hotel. One guest comments, “The hotel decor is beautiful - modern and extremely clean.”

Centrally located between Dallas and Forth Worth, the Grand Hyatt attracts many business travelers and hosts business meetings in its two conference centers as well as its meeting rooms. As a special practice for business travelers, the hotel offers a “Business Plan” in which guests pay a $25 upgrade fee and recieve free breakfast, free internet, and can have two shirts pressed. This plan provides added value for business travelers and saves them time!

What about the staff? At the Grand Hyatt DFW, management is very cautious about who they hire. Those who are chosen to work at the Hyatt, are believed to possess an innate talent for service, and go through an extensive training program. As part of their motto, the Hyatt DFW makes it their goal to “deliver authentic hospitality.” With this in mind, the Hyatt looks to hire individuals who have a desire to help others.

Finally, one of the Hotel’s most unique offerings can be found at Moka, the twenty-four hour coffee bar. The original “iTaste” option allows guests to choose from chocolate, wine, or cheese tasting. Once the guest has decided, hotel staff brings the guest an ipod so they can watch a taste-testing podcast. During the podcast, a chef walks guests through the food they are tasting. In addition, once a month at the Hotel’s Epicurean Studio, guests can participate in an interactive cooking class with the chef. This makes for great culinary entertainment while staying at the hotel!

Described as a “luxury hotel in the ultimate convenient location,” Grand Hyatt DFW provides guests with spectacular service and unique entertainment.

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Source: Teresa Nielsen

Looking to create a family-friendly environment at your hotel? It’s nearly impossible to out do the Nickelodeon Suites Resort in Orlando, yet with a creative mind and a few small touches, your hotel can be kid-friendly too!

With a Real Traveler rating of 4.2 out of 5, from 765 guest reviews across the web, the Nickelodeon Suites Resort gets a gold star for overall kid appeal. When vacationing here, there’s no need for parents to go elsewhere to entertain the kids. Everything a kid could ever need, is located in this remarkable resort. On a hot day, kids can enjoy the two water parks at the resort. Yet, what makes these water parks so special, beside the infamous Nickelodeon “Slime,” are the poolside decorations and entertainment. Nickelodeon characters adorn the pool deck, and kids enjoy live poolside activities and games put on by an entertainment staff of one hundred people! So your hotel doesn’t have a water park? Well, perhaps it has a pool! With the help of hotel staff members, it’s easy to set up games and activities for families to enjoy, from face painting to an old-fashioned water balloon toss, a little creativity goes a long way when it comes to family fun.

The Nickelodeon Suites Resort also boasts of the perfect basketball court. With basketball hoops set at different heights, from four feet to regulation height, kids of all ages can practice shooting baskets. Going further, the Resort also includes a 4-D theatre complete with wind, water, bubbles, and scent! Kids will have a blast at the 3,000 square foot arcade, with games for kids of all ages, from 3 to 17. Okay, so your hotel definitely does not include a 4-D theatre or arcade– now what? Create a hotel dvd library for guests to enjoy, provide board games for guests, or even equip hotel rooms with video games for kids! Sure, you can’t compete with the scale of fun that Nickelodeon offers, however, you can take simple steps to improve your hotel’s family environment.

The Nickelodeon Suites Resort does an awesome job of getting the whole family involved and simplifies vacation for worn out parents. With awesome amenities to keep the kids entertained, there’s no need to ever leave the resort! The “Grand Trippin’ Package” allows grandparents to take advantage of the Resort’s many amenities, as it is somewhere they can visit without having to worry about keep their grandkids entertained. However, for those who do feel the need to explore Orlando, the Resort offers free transportation to neighboring Disney World, Sea World, Univesral Studios, and Wet n’ Wild. This is a great service for visitors, as parking at these theme parks costs about $14 per vehicle! One guest describes this resort, “Room rates are reasonable, great concept, super kid-friendly, kids love it, large complex, good parent’s night out option with activities for kids, ample parking, suites were very nicely decorated, cool flat-screen TV in room, rooms are comfortable and clean, well maintained, good maid service, good arcade (but small), incredible water slides, pool side drinks were good, plenty of life-guards, restaurant had a decent breakfast and dinner buffet.”

Focused on creating a kid-friendly environment, the Nickelodeon Suites Resort makes for a memorable experience for the whole family.

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Source: Teresa Nielsen

This piece is based on an interview with Amanda Sullivan, Marketing Director at Old Edwards Inn and Spa, located in Highlands North Carolina. After speaking with Amanda, it’s easy to see why the Old Edwards Inn has received a Real Traveler rating of 5 out of 5 from 2 reviews across the web.

With charming European style, in the heart of the Blue Ridge mountain village, The Old Edwards Inn creates a sense of discovery within each of its visitors. Such a natural setting inspires guests to embrace the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. By taking advantage of their location, the Inn encourages visitors to enjoy the fresh mountain air while participating in hotel scheduled activities like fitness classes which promote the Inn’s “wellness lifestyle.”

Upon completion of its 50 million dollar renovation in 2007, and purchasing its own golf course, guests will surely delight in all that the Old Edwards Inn and Spa has to offer. Known for its culture of family, fun, and five star service, this four star hotel boasts of a “non-stuffy,” casual elegance. While here, visitors indulge themselves in the performing, visual, and culinary arts for a full-sensory experience. With celebrations for all occasions, guests can take part in the upcoming St. Patrick’s day party. With help from the chef, guests will make real Irish coffee and expereiment with Irish wiskey tasting.

Have some down time? Many visitors go to the fitness center, complete with personal trainers, yoga, and Tai Chi classes. Cool down and take a dip in the heated outdoor mineral pool. After working up an appetite, stop by the Inn’s Madison’s Restaurant or visit the Wine Garden, both of which are uniquely centered on healthy eating and bring food from “farm-to-table.” Meals are prepared with simple splendor, and guests learn to appreciate the taste of each individual ingredient. The Old Edward’s Inn focuses on teaching visitors about the importance of treating the earth right, from “seed to plate,” making the hotel experience more of a personal retreat. One visitor describes the Inn as “A beautiful, intimate hotel with a wonderful staff, a fabulous restaurant, great spa and fitness center, in a charming little mountaintop town.”

A four star hotel with five star service and amenities, The Old Edwards Inn utilizes its mountain setting to create an atmosphere of relaxation an rejuvenation.

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Source: Teresa Nielsen