Springhill Suites – Not What I Thought

I’m sometimes guilty of dismissing an entire chain because of my preconceived notions about what they are about.  I did this with Springhill Suites – assuming them to be a type of hotel that I would not be interested in staying in.

I was wrong.

My interest in Marriott brands has increased in recent months, largely due to my frustration with Hilton’s program dilution.  I travel to many smaller towns where I do not have a lot of chain hotel options – and when I do, they are likely to come in the form of Hampton Inn, Fairfield Inn, Courtyard by Marriott, or Springhill Suites varieties.

Recently I’ve had a couple of central California stays – Hyatt is nonexistent in that stretch, Starwood has retreated in the last couple of years, and even Hiltons can be scarce.  I ended up with a couple of Springhill Suites stays in a row.

My observations?

* Hip lobbies – almost on part with an Aloft design-wise

* Colorful touches throughout flowing common spaces – bright pops of comforting colors, flowing curtains breaking up large common spaces, curved lines, a rounded front desk as a lobby hub

* Fresh room designs with plenty of space – they have a bit of a Hyatt Place feel to them

* Well-stocked self-serve breakfast buffets – a variety of hot and cold options kept refreshed

I am glad I had the opportunity to correct my misconceptions – these are very comfortable limited-service properties!

Melinda at Magic of Miles posted about the latest contest at Springhill Suites earlier this week.  It sounds like my observations about the properties are exactly the image they are going for.  Score one for perception!

Will you be entering?