I’ve heard great things about this property and since it’s pretty new, I’m in Ft. Lauderdale and a points whore, I had to book a stay! The W Fort Lauderdale has been open about a year and consists of a hotel and Condo build.
This property located directly across from the beach (you need to cross the street for access). Steven Starrs yummy Steak 954 is located on site but for any other retail needs you will need to walk or drive.
Upon driving onto the motor court you instantly know you’re at the W. From the moment you walk through the door, you’re met with some really great design features. It’s exactly what a W should be.
The living room is huge and the decor is dope, it’s the only hotel lobby I’ve actually wanted to chill in. There are several different areas so there is a space for everyone.
After check-in you move through the building to the elevator banks and the design details are carried through here as well. The common areas are very nice and the guest room corridors aren’t dark like you would find in most W Hotels.
I arrive at my room and I’m happy and disappointed at the same time. The room is on a high floor, nice and bright, but really small, the smallest room I’ve ever been assigned, but the terrace was larger than the room. It’s bigger than the room.
The room is nice, but it appears there was more thought put into the common areas than the rooms. The bed is one side of the room and the seating/work area is on the other. The terrace wraps around the entire room.
The furniture is in good condition and the chairs swivel so they you can watch TV from the seating/work area. The bed was guarded by an alligator, a theme repeated throughout the property. The seating/work area is tight but luckily you can work on the balcony. There aren’t many plugs as I had to search for extra sockets. Across from the bed there is a small 32” TV.
There is a large side by side closet so storage is not an issue, for those on longer stays. Lighting isn’t an issue as the exterior walls for the room are all glass so you get tons or natural lighting and great views of the ocean.
The bathroom was a nice space but awkward.
When you enter the bathroom, you’re looking directly at the vanity. There is lots of counter space but only one sink. On one side of the sink is the shower and on the opposite side, is the water closet, which is hidden behind frosted glass. Like most W’s the bathroom looks right into the bedroom, but unlike most W’s, the shower is completely open to the room. This could be problematic if you’re sharing the room.
Internet is free in the living room and $14.95 a night. Coverage was really good even out on the balcony.
The gym is nice and big filled with up-to-date equipment and a good views. The Pool is great, early in the morning, as there is an abundance of loungers or you can sit at the wrap around bar. On the weekend there is a pool party that is get pretty wild. Definitely not kid friendly.
Valet parking was $30 a night, but there were plenty on staff and I never had to wait for my car. Staff was courteous and offered directions each time.
FINAL IMPRESSION
Overall hotel cleanliness:
Hotel is good shape considering it’s target audience. The furniture on the balcony needs to be replaced or better weather protected but overall, no major issues.
Staff attitude, conduct & support:
Most of the staff is super happy and extremely eager to give assistance. They even gave me a cake for my BDay.
Location:
Good location for beach access but, you will need to walk, drive or take a cab to get to the hub of restaurants or Las Olas.
Would I return?
Yes. But on a non Holiday weekend
Would I recommend this as family friendly?
Definitely not!
Good for business travelers?
No, party central
Good for a romantic get away?
Yes, nice rooms, views, restaurant and resort services.
Would I recommend for someone looking for Dining/Nightlife?
Based on requestor as the hub of nightlife/dining is south of the property.
Would I recommend restaurant?
Yes. Steak 954 is expensive but worth a try
Value for price paid?
Good
Overall property rating on a scale from 1 to 10 = 8
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