Fairfax at Embassy Row, Washington, D.C

Although I’m a W person I decided to stay at this property during my recent trip to Washington DC.  This is one of my favorite properties due to its location on Dupont and easy access to restaurants and things to do/see in nearby areas.

I’ve stayed here on several occasions prior to the restoration/refurbishment and name change and have been treated very well.  Although the property has been the Fairfax for a while, they have recently changed the exterior signage.

Staff knows me by name and knows my likes and dislikes, which makes for a more pleasant stay.

RANKINGS
Check-in/Check-out  [5 out of 5]

Upon check in I was prebooked into the room I normally stay in, but due to a broken door, I was moved to another room, which was even better than the room I normally stay in.  The staff was apologetic but it didn’t mind.

Check out was quick and fast. No billing issues and points posted in appropriate time frame.

Common Areas  [4]

The lobby and ballroom area are old school.  The hallways leading to rooms are refurbished, however, have a classic décor. 

Guest Rooms  [4]

As mentioned earlier I’ve been in here a number of times since the restoration/renovation.  Normally I stay in a suite with good views of Mass.  This stay I was given an upgrade well above the normal Platinum elite upgrade.

 

 

Overall First Impression:  Nice large room, but where is the view.

• Bed:  The bed isn’t as comfortable as the W bed, but provides a good sleep
• Furniture & Decor:  Classic décor with furniture that is just in very good condition
• Closet Space: This room only has one closet, which is located in the bedroom.  Strange for a room so large.
• TV:  42” High Definition TV.  Channels are actually high definition.
• Lighting:  Good in room light, but so-so natural lighting from the outside as this particular room is opposite another building.
• Workspace:  Big table and desk in room.  So if sharing the room there is plenty of space for everyone to work
• View:  NO view in this room from either the parlor or the bedroom
• Radio/Audio:  Since my last visit the property has updated it’s alarms clocks.  They have docking stations with inputs for ipods/mp3 players.  Good move!

Guest Room Bathrooms  [4]
There is only one bathroom in this suite and do to it’s location in the suite, it can be a tight fit for two people.  In addition if you are entertaining, you cannot keep the door to the bedroom closed.  I will say the towels are top notch and super absorbent and soft.

 

 

• Sink:  Small countertop, but have shelving below to store towels and items. 
• Shower:  This hotel has a shower and tub combo.  Nothing special.
• Tub:  No tub in the room
• Toiletries:  The property is now using Laboratoire Remede toiletries.  Nice scent without being overpowering or drying.

Housekeeping  [N/A]

No issues as I only spent one night in the property.

Club Level/Lounge [N/A]

No

Fitness Center  [5]
The fitness center has finally been complete.  It’s not the largest fitness center but has VERY nice equipment with TV’s.  The center is quiet, clean and intimate.

 

Pool  [N/A]
This property does not have a pool

Business Center  [N/A]

There is a business center on the first level between the restaurant & lounge and the ball room.  It’s free to use.

Concierge  [N/A]
Didn’t use.

High Speed Wired/Wireless Internet Access   [4]
I think there is free wireless in the lobby and lounge.   There is a $11 fee in rooms.  Rooms are also wired.  The signal was very strong and quite fast & I was never dropped.

Parking/Valet [5]

Very fast.  When I pulled up the attendant spoke to me by name. 

Dining [N/A]
Didn’t use but there is a restaurant on site.

FINAL IMPRESSION

Overall hotel cleanliness:

Spotless and very clean

Staff attitude, conduct & support:

On point and extremely professional.

Location:

Good location as the property is located on Dupont Circle with access to public transportation and within at 10 minute walking radius of various restaurants.

Would I return?

Yes. Unless the price point was out of my range. 

Would I recommend this as family friendly?

No, as there is no pool. 

Good for business travelers?

Yes, as it convenient to the Metro, Embassy Row and a short ride to Downtown DC and Georgetown.

Good for a romantic get away?

Possibly. 

Would I recommend for someone looking for Dining/Nightlife?

Sure as there are a number of restaurants, lounges and bars in the area.

Would I recommend restaurant?

NA

Value for price paid?

Good


Overall property rating on a scale from 1 to 10 = 9