So I am moving to D.C. for nine months and wanted a hotel in Dupont Circle where I will be living to check it out. I stayed for five nights and while I initially had concerns, the positives outweighed the negatives.
Admittedly, I had two concerns at check-in. I tried to get the manager to waive the $50.00 early checkout fee that another reviewer had mentioned and for which they make you sign that you understand it. I explained that as a government employee I was at the whim of someone else and I might need to leave at a moment's notice. No dice! They wouldn't budge. So be aware that if there is any doubt that you will not stay the duration do not stay here.
Second, I had ordered a king bed room ($10.00) more a night because in their photos the room is bigger. The first room they gave me was smaller then anything I saw online, but when I requested a change of room they moved me to a Classic King which is much bigger. (at no add'l charge)
Okay: Here are the pros:
Extremely quiet: I never heard a thing in five nights.
Good value for the money. Rates online are $139.00 to $163.00 and for the location a very good buy. Nice tree-lined street. If you like the neighborhood feel instead of the tourist feel this is for you.
Free internet access throughout, and instead of one or two free guest computers, they actually have five laptops which you sign out for and use in the lobby area for free.
Tiny, tiny, kitchen, but perfect for making cereal, toast, tea, etc. They have a buffet breakfast in a cute atrium, but I didn't eat there. (Extra $$ of course)
I didn't have a car, but there is street parking after 8:30 p.m. and very limited free parking in the back of the hotel. Why anyone would want a car in D.C. is beyond me. Buses and Metro are great ways to get around.
One thing you don't usually hear about. The laundry area. Two extra large commercial washers and dryers and soap dispensers. All $1.00 each. I did a complete large load for $3.00 SWEET!
Free safe in room.
Free access to Washington Health Club (10 minutes away).
Discount card for Safeway.
Oh, and one young lady at the front desk (Karamaria
I think) Very sweet and friendly.
Negatives: Rooms are a little funky. They have tried to do it art deco, but what it really is I think is a former apartment building where they added some granite in the bathroom and some faux art deco decorations. it was an interesting mix of antique and old if you get my drift. The bed was very comfortable but the couch looked like something you would see in a 20's something first apartment. Plenty bid though, with separate living area, dining area etc.
The above mentioned $50.00 fee.
Overall, given the opportunity, I would probably stay there again.
Cheers.
Marius
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