Category: Hotel Review

When it comes to picking a hotel in the nation’s capital, the Thompson Washington DC quickly became my new favorite. Between the incredibly friendly staff, the stylish rooms, and the fantastic rooftop area, it made it very easy to enjoy our stay here.

Location: Navy Yard Vibes

The Thompson is located in the Navy Yard district. If you’re looking to visit the monuments or spend your days in the museums, this might not be the best location for you, as you’re probably going to have to Uber or take a Lyft to get to those central sights.

However, if you’re looking for great coffee shops, excellent restaurants, or trying to take in a Washington Nationals game, this is definitely the hotel for you.

Booking the Thompson Washington DC with Points

The Thompson Washington DC is part of the World of Hyatt, which makes it a fantastic value for points travelers. It is an Award Category 4 hotel, meaning you can stay here for about 15,000 points per night. If you have Chase Ultimate Rewards points, you can transfer them directly to Hyatt to book your stay.

For this trip, we actually used a Category 1-4 Free Night Certificate, which provided excellent value for our stay.

Room Review: Standard King (Room 706)

We stayed in Room 706, a standard one King bed room. We checked in pretty late at night, and while the room has an “intimate feeling,” it can be a bit dark. Even with all the lights on, it was about as bright as the room gets at night, though it looks great during the day.

Room Highlights:

• The Bathroom: A good-sized bathroom with modern finishes. My biggest complaint was that there was no door on the shower. It’s a personal preference, but I just like to have a door.
• The Tech: One feature I really liked was the TV. You can connect your phone and stream your own content. Since we were there on a Saturday, I was able to stream a little football between activities—it was really nice to have that option.
• Storage & Amenities: There is a full-length mirror, a refrigerator (unstocked), and in-room coffee. The closet has a safe and robes, though there wasn’t a lot of room for our suitcases or travel gear, which I didn’t care for.
• Workspace: There is a small desk if you need to get some work done during your stay.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Incredibly friendly and welcoming staff.
• Excellent rooftop bar and lounge area.
• Great location for sports fans and foodies in the Navy Yard.
• Excellent value for Hyatt Category 1-4 certificates.
• Modern tech with phone-to-TV streaming capabilities.

Cons

• No door on the shower (personal preference).
• Limited space for luggage/suitcases.
• Not within walking distance of the National Mall/Monuments.

Final Verdict for the Thompson Washington DC: Should You Stay Here?

Everything about our stay at the Thompson Washington DC was really nice and really clean. Despite the minor lack of suitcase space, we really enjoyed our time here. I would definitely highly recommend this hotel to anyone, and we will certainly be back.

Reddy on the Go Hotel Rating: 8.2 / 10

• Location: 7.5 / 10
• Amenities: 8.5 / 10
• Room: 8 / 10
• Service: 9 / 10

Click here to check out my review on the Marriott Marquis Washington DC.

When it comes to picking a hotel in the nation’s capital, location is everything. The Marriott Marquis Washington DC hits that sweet spot by being close to the action, comfortable for conference-goers, and stylish enough for leisure travelers. On my recent trip with my wife, we discovered just how much this hotel has to offer. Here’s a full review of our stay.

Location: Why the Marriott Marquis Washington DC Stands Out

The Marriott Marquis Washington DC is one of the best-positioned hotels in the city. Whether you’re here for business or sightseeing, the convenience can’t be overstated.

• Convention Center Access: The Walter E. Washington Convention Center is literally next door. In fact, there’s even a tunnel connecting the hotel to the venue—so if it’s raining, you won’t even need to step outside.
• Capital One Arena: Coming for a game or a concert? You’re just a short walk away.
• National Landmarks: From the Smithsonian Museums and Ford’s Theatre to the Capitol Building, Washington Monument, and National Mall, many of DC’s iconic spots are within walking distance.

And when it comes to food, you won’t be disappointed. Just around the corner is the popular Unconventional Diner, known for its creative takes on comfort food.

First Impressions: The Hotel Itself

Walking into the Marriott Marquis Washington DC, you’re greeted by a massive, open atrium. It’s the kind of space that makes you pause and look up. The atrium also houses a bar and a few restaurants, which makes it easy to grab a drink or meal without leaving the building.

The overall vibe is modern, airy, and welcoming—perfect after a long day of exploring the capital.

Room Tour: What to Expect

We stayed in room 4067, and the layout was both practical and comfortable. Right as you walk in, you’ll find the bathroom, which was clean and well-designed with plenty of space for two travelers.

The bedroom area was cozy yet spacious, with a large, comfortable bed and everything you’d expect from a Marriott property: TV, desk, and plenty of outlets for charging all your devices (a must if you’re like me and travel with too many gadgets).

It’s the kind of room that makes you feel at home, but with the bonus of DC views right outside your window.

Final Thoughts: Should You Stay at the Marriott Marquis Washington DC?

Absolutely. Whether you’re here for a conference, a game at Capital One Arena, or simply to explore the nation’s capital, the Marriott Marquis Washington DC is an excellent choice.

Its unbeatable location, modern design, and convenience make it one of the top hotels in Washington, DC. My wife and I truly enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend it for your next trip to the capital.

Reddy on the Go Hotel Rating: 7.69 / 10

Location: 8.75 / 10

Amenities: 7.5 / 10

Room: 7 / 10

Service: 7 / 10

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel offers travelers a comfortable base to explore Asheville, North Carolina. While the hotel’s exterior may not immediately impress, don’t let that fool you—the inside is modern, welcoming, and full of thoughtful touches that make for an enjoyable stay.

Location: Walkable Downtown Ashevill

The real star of the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel is its location. Situated in the middle of Asheville, the hotel is within walking distance of shops, breweries, and restaurants. Whether you’re searching for craft beer or local boutiques, you’ll find plenty just steps away.

One of our favorite stops nearby was the Mast General Store, always a fun visit when we’re in a city that has one. During our trip over the Fourth of July, Asheville’s downtown came alive with street booths, live music, and even a dog-jumping show—making the central location even more convenient.

A Short Drive to Asheville’s Biggest Attraction: Biltmore Estate

Just a quick drive from the hotel is Biltmore Estate, Asheville’s most famous landmark. Built between 1889 and 1895, Biltmore is the largest privately-owned home in the United States.

The estate grounds are stunning, and a tour of the mansion is a must-do for any visitor. If you can visit during Christmas, the decorations make it even more magical. Right next door is Biltmore Village, filled with shops and restaurants. We stopped at Well-Bred Café for coffee and snacks before heading out to explore the estate.

Hotel Amenities

The Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel offers a range of amenities that make your stay convenient and comfortable:

• Restaurant & Bar – Located just off the lobby, perfect for dining without leaving the property.
• Self-serve market – Snacks, drinks, and toiletries available anytime.
• Fitness Center – Modern equipment, mountain views, and often quiet.
• Pool – Unfortunately, it was out of service during our stay. Families traveling in summer may want to check availability in advance.
• Back Porch Area – The highlight of the hotel’s common spaces. Covered but open-air, this area hosts cocktail hours and even live music on some evenings.

Room Review

Our room at the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel was comfortable, though not without a few quirks:

• Bathroom – Compact, with only one sink.
• Adjoining Door – Our room connected to the next, which isn’t everyone’s preference.
• Decor – A bike on the wall (just decoration!) and fewer mirrors than expected compared to other Marriott properties.
• Comfort – Despite small details, the room was cozy, quiet, and came with a beautiful view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

At the end of the day, you’re staying here for location first—and the rooms do their job well enough for a good night’s sleep.

Pros & Cons of the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hote

Pros

• Excellent downtown location, walkable to shops and breweries
• Short drive to Biltmore Estate and Biltmore Village
• Comfortable rooms with mountain views
• Modern gym with mountain scenery
• Fun social atmosphere on the back porch

Cons

• Exterior of the building could use updating
• Pool was closed during our stay
• Bathrooms are small with only one sink
• Some rooms have adjoining doors, which may affect privacy

Final Verdict: Should You Stay Here?

Yes. The Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel is a solid choice for anyone visiting Asheville, especially if you want to be close to downtown while still enjoying views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The location is its biggest selling point—you can walk to restaurants, shops, and breweries, and you’re only a short drive from the Biltmore Estate.

While the hotel has some cosmetic drawbacks and the pool closure was disappointing, the comfortable rooms and excellent location make it a great pick for Asheville travelers.

If you’re looking for a downtown Asheville hotel with modern amenities and easy access to both city life and the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel is worth booking.

Reddy on the Go Hotel Rating: 6.7 / 10

Location: 7.5 / 10

Amenities: 6.5 / 10

Room: 6 / 10

Service: 6.5 / 10

If you’re planning a trip to London and want a luxury hotel near Westminster and Covent Garden, look no further than the Great Scotland Yard Hotel. Part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection, this unique property blends London’s rich history with modern comfort—and it quickly became one of the nicest hotels I’ve stayed at in the city.

A Hotel With History

The Great Scotland Yard Hotel is located in the former headquarters of the London Metropolitan Police Force. You feel that history the moment you step inside: the décor, artwork, and design all nod to its law enforcement past while still feeling elegant and modern.

Hotel Amenities

Despite being tucked in the heart of London, the hotel offers amenities you don’t often find in a city-center property:

• Large fitness center – Fully equipped with everything from weights to a Peloton bike. Surprisingly, it was often empty during my stay. Bonus tip: the gym stocks free bottled water, a great find in London.
• On-site bar and restaurant – Leaning into the police history theme, they provide a stylish and atmospheric place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
• Nearby dining – Within a one-minute walk, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, including The Horse and Guardsman, which I highly recommend.

Location: Why It’s Hard to Beat the Great Scotland Yard Hotel

London is a massive city, and choosing a central hotel makes exploring far easier. The Great Scotland Yard Hotel is ideally located near top attractions and transport links:

• Trafalgar Square – 4-minute walk
• Big Ben – 10 minutes away
• Westminster Abbey – 12 minutes away
• Buckingham Palace – 21-minute walk
• Tower of London – 23 minutes via the Tube
• Charing Cross & Embankment stations – Just steps away, making it easy to get around the city

What I loved most was how easy it was to pop back to the hotel midday. Unlike other parts of London I’ve stayed in, this central location made it convenient to rest, change, or recharge before heading back out.

Room Tour

Walking into the room, I was immediately struck by the luxurious details that set this hotel apart:

• Entry area – Hooks, shoe space, and luggage storage made settling in effortless.
• Design touches – Mirrors, upscale finishes, and an overall refined feel.
• Room view – Ours faced the courtyard (not the street), but the quiet night’s sleep more than made up for it.
• Mini-fridge & espresso machine – Stocked with complimentary still and sparkling water, plus an espresso maker for your morning coffee fix.
• Noise level – Surprisingly silent, despite being in the middle of London.

The bathroom was compact but featured two standout luxuries:

• A heated toilet seat
• A heated towel warmer, perfect for winter stays

Combine that with a very comfortable bed, and it added up to an excellent night’s sleep.

Pros & Cons of the Great Scotland Yard Hotel

Pros

• Incredible central location
• Rich history with stylish décor
• Spacious fitness center (with free water!)
• Comfortable, quiet rooms despite being in central London
• Luxurious touches like heated bathroom features

Cons

• Some rooms face the courtyard instead of the street
• Bathroom size is a bit compact (but efficient)

Final Verdict: Should You Stay Here?

Absolutely. The Great Scotland Yard Hotel is one of the most unique and luxurious hotels in London. With its unbeatable location, historical charm, and modern comforts, it’s a perfect choice for both first-time visitors and seasoned London travelers.

As of now, it’s the nicest hotel I’ve stayed at in London—and one I’d recommend to anyone, especially if you’re booking with Hyatt points.

If you’re looking for a 5-star hotel in London near Westminster, Trafalgar Square, and Buckingham Palace, the Great Scotland Yard Hotel should be at the top of your list.

Reddy on the Go Hotel Rating: 8.21 / 10

Location: 9.5 / 10

Amenities: 8 / 10

Room: 7.5 / 10

Service: 7 / 10