Westin Washington, D.C. City Center

I haven't stayed at this property in a while, so I wanted to check it out as I feel it's always good to "check up" on properties you're previously stayed.

Because this property has been under a number of different brands, it's not the most aesthetically pleasing Westin in the chain.

The property is conveniently located to the White House, Washington Convention Center. You could even walk, take a taxi or drive down Massachusetts to Dupont Circle or M to Georgetown.

RATINGS

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

Arrived at the property early, and was pre-upgraded to a suite on a high floor and the room was not ready. Since I had plans it wasn't a big deal. The check-in agent, was extremely professional and pleasant. She asked about the platinum amenity, welcomed me back after a long absence and was super helpful with holding my bags.

The property has the capability of sending folio's electronically. I did not receive a platinum amenity. In this case I don't think it's operator error but a system issue. The agent that checked me was also the agent that checked me out and during check-out she inquired about my staff and repeated that they had me down for the platinum amenity. I called customer service and I indicated the above as this agent was on the ball. I don't want the agent to get into trouble, but have their system checked.

Common Areas [4]

Blah, basic but functional. The property, with it's open air atrium lobby, is designed like a second rate embassy suites, It's very dated. The common area's are ordinary and a bit dark leading away from the elevator banks but clean.

 

Guest Rooms [4]

Upgraded to one of the suites that overlook the lobby. These rooms are oddly shaped and weird in an 80's kind of way. It's a nice space if you are with a family or friends.

The Parlor

The room is an odd shaped octagon. Entering the room you walk across a "cat walk" to arrive in the parlor. On the right is the TV seating area and one access point to the "patio" and on the left is a second seating area and the entrance to the bedroom. In the middle of the room is one entrance to the bathroom.

 

  

 

• Overall First Impression: Appreciative of the suite, but the catwalk is a bit much. LOL
• Bed: Typical Westin bed
• Furniture & Decor: Typical Westin decor. Clean and sturdy
• Closet Space: There is a large walk closet. It is the only closet in the suite
• TV: Flat panel TV in each room, with HD Channels
• Lighting: Ample lighting, to the point it's too much lighting. The room is like a fishbowl as all the natural light from the atrium floods the room.
• Workspace: Nice desk with drawers. I've often though this property uses the desk space the best.
• View: The only view from this room is of the lobby. It's literally a room with a view.
• Radio/Audio: Some crazy out dated DVD clock player.

 

  

 

Guest Room Bathrooms [2]

A huge 80s bathroom that needs a serious overhaul. The bathroom is like a pit in the suite as the parlor, bedroom and "patio" surround the bathroom. 

 

 

 

• Sink: Two pedestal sinks located right next to each entry point. There is no counter space but a small table to hold things while at the sinks. However, that table is so far away I used the tub.
• Shower: Giant party shower, but sort of dark.
• Tub: There is a giant tub in the middle of the room. It's literally the white elephant in the room.
• Toiletries: Typical Westin toiletries.

Housekeeping [N/A]

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

Club Level/Lounge [N/A]

This property does not have a Westin Executive Lounge

Fitness Center [5]

Nice equipment cardio machines and free weights. Space plan maximizes the use of the entire space.

 

Pool [N/A]

This property does not have a pool.

Business Center [N/A]

I didn't use but there is a rather large business center on the first floor

Concierge [N/A]

Didn't use.

High Speed Wired/Wireless Internet Access [4]

This property does not offer free access in the lobby. I thought that was strange considering every other starwood property I've been to has had free Internet in the lobby. I noticed that there was no internet charge at check-out.  That maybe be due to my platinum status.

Parking/Valet [5]

The parking area is large and covered. You can see the valet from your room, so there isn't a need to leave until you see your car.

Dining [N/A]

Didn’t use but there is a restaurant on site.

FINAL IMPRESSION

Overall hotel cleanliness:

Clean and average.

Staff attitude, conduct & support:

All the staff members I can in contact with, were professional and

Location:

Good central location for seeing DC. Close to public transportation and everyday conveniences.

Would I return

Yes. Based on price versus nearby properties.

Would I recommend this as family friendly?

Possibly.  If you're car free, the age of the kids and what you want to see.  However, there is no pool and kids love pool.

Good for business travelers?

Yes.

Good for a romantic get away?

No.  There is nothing romantic about this property.

Would I recommend for someone looking for Dining/Nightlife?

Yes as you would need to drive anyway.

Would I recommend restaurant?

Probably not as I rarely dine at hotel restaurants.

Value for price paid?

Very good

Overall property rating on a scale from 1 to 10 = 6.5