W Fort Lauderdale

As a W Hotel fan this is typically my first choice when visiting Ft. Lauderdale.  Why? Location! I like the rooms and I love the deep terraces off the rooms on the upper floors.  

I tend to visit Ft. Lauderdale 3 or 4 times a year and stay at the W.  Coming into the property was on par with my previous experiences, all though the valet area seemed to be a bit more disorganized and slower than previous stays.

When I arrived at reception, the area and adjoining living room were eerily empty.  I’ll just chalk it up to folks being at the beach or out enjoying the day.  The area is clean and well maintained.  The next morning I did notice quite a few people using the free wireless.

One thing I’ve always liked about this property is although the beach is directly across the street and the pool above the living room, you don’t get that “sea water” or pool odor in the reception, living room or public and room level corridors.

At check-in I was greeted by one of my two favorite agents and was welcomed back.  Although, i’m not a business traveler, It nice to be appreciated and recognized for maintaining to elite tier status.

My stays over the past couple of years, I’ve been assigned the same room - an ocean front suite on a high floor with a nice terrace.  Due to the size, this is a perfect room if you’re traveling with someone (friend or significant other/spouse)  or want to entertain.  If you don’t feel like going down to the beach, you can just chill on the terrace.

However, this stay, I was assigned a different room. Hence this update review.  When I told I would be assigned a room on a lower floor, I was concerned.  I’ve never stayed on a lower floor and I was worried that I wouldn’t get a lot of sun and I would hear noise from the pool.

The suite itself is very cozy and perfect for a single person or couple.  Upon entering, you’re in a hallway, that has a postcard view of the ocean

On either side of the hallway is the bedroom and bathroom.  Both rooms can easily be hidden by pocket doors.  This is nice if you sharing the room with someone, you can enjoy the parlor of the suite while they are still in bed or they use the side balcony.

The bedroom is large has its on TV a large walking closet and a private balcony.  The room also has a wall of windows which makes the room feel even larger.  The W bed was typical and I suspect I was on a new or recently replace mattress as it was super firm, which is my preference.  On either side of the bed there are electrical outlets so no need to search for places to plug in mobile devices.

The bathroom isn’t large but has simple layout that two can use without compromising space.  There is no tub in this unit, but the shower fits two.  Usually I’m underwhelmed by shower pressure, but the pressure in this shower was better than average.

Once you past the bathroom and bedroom you’re in the parlor which is a nice size but due to the lack of wall art, if feels sparse.  On one side of the room is a seating area, the other side is a desk and entertainment area.  The area has enough space to entertain without feeling crowded.  The only issues is electrical outlets, they are awkwardly placed and the majority are against the wall where the desk and TV are located.

The room, like others, has sliding doors that open up to the Atlantic ocean that offer picture perfect views.  

I was worried about noise from the pool deck below but I didn’t hear a word.  I wasn’t around during the day  on a Sunday, so I didn’t experience the Sunday party.

Overall its a great room and really enjoyed it as I was expecting the worst, based on my previous room assignments.

Wireless internet connection was strong throughout the room and on the balcony.

Went down to sweat and it was a typical experience. Machines were in good shape and the room was maintained.

After my workout I went to spend a minute on the pool deck, but due to a rain shower the loungers were all wet.  So I decided I headed back to my room when I remembered there is a second pool on the back of the property.  The pool deck is smaller and only has a view of other buildings.  This is a great alternative if the main pool is crowded and/or you don’t want to go to the beach.

My expectations on this property are continually met and I’m treated well for my patronage.  My favorite Ft. Lauderdale restaurant, Steak 954,  is located on site, so overall the property is a solid favorite.

Besides when the property give such yummy platinum recognition treats, why wouldn't I return?