I’m very glad that I was not tempted into staying at the W. I’ve never been tempted to stay at a W, it’s just not for me. Yes, the awesome beds are a good thing but the “atmosphere” is enough to send me running. The Chicago City Centre had all the atmosphere I needed – very very friendly staff, quiet and quick elevators, very large rooms, free internet, corded in the room and wireless in the lobby, (though when I connected, it asked for cash it never followed through with a charge on my bill or requested a credit card). The little gift shop/convenience store was perfect – a lifesaver on two separate evenings.
There were only two tiny problems with the City Centre – on the last night of our stay, the person wandering the halls sliding bills under the door had a two-way radio and it was loud. And, their coke machines were constantly empty of coke and water. I will also admit that the beds were not “W” quality but I’ve slept in worse – including one horrible sleep experience in Chicago … but that’s another blog post, once I get caught up.
Edited to add a link to Liz’s post – yeah City Centre!