John King

Review of W Austin Hotel

The check-in was good, with the clerks accommodati...

The check-in was good, with the clerks accommodating our request to change rooms in a very kind manner. We wanted our infant daughter to see the fireworks and the opportunity in the A/C without noise and they set us up with a room at the right angle (Note: The hotel rooms aren't terribly good for watching fireworks as the Northshore building blocks your view significantly). Also their bed was A +++++++.

The rooms are fine but I'd feel a little let down if we'd not paid a special rate they offered. The service is good but more than a little snooty. More Dallas than Austin for sure.

Funny anecdote that reflects this: I have low level status with SPG which normally gets me a free drink upon check in. Well here you get a guitar pick worth 15% off any of the bars or restaurants. LIttle underwhelming, but ok. Not gonna ruin my day.

We didn't use the coupon so upon checking out I asked the clerk "Can we use this 15% off in the future here?"

His answer verbatim: "They are meant for staying guests only so to use it then would be dishonest and would reflect upon you."

I kept a straight face but my wife couldn't hold back the giggles. For the record I think my conscious will prevent me from taking the W for all the deeply discounted $15.30 hamburgers I can carry.