Thursday, June 23, 2005

Maxing out The Marriott

At the last minute, my boyfriend decided to surprise me with a trip to my all time FAVORITE property in Palm Desert, CA called the JW Marriott Desert Hot Springs Resort. Why is it my favorite? Well besides the amazing waterfalls, wonderful rooms and a great staff, the spa is THE BEST place to relax.

http://marriott.com/property/propertypage.mi?marshaCode=CTDCA.

What made this trip a little more interesting is a story in itself. First of all, let me share an insider secret that Mark taught me -- always ask the front desk staff to help you with your reservation. The hotel was sold out but somehow Mark got a reservation. Then he got the front desk manager to help him get the "sold out" entertainment book rate. Since this is a $300+ per night room, let's just say this was quite a "deal."

Next, he asked if they could help us really top our stay with a really great view and 2 days at the spa pool (technically you only get to go if you are getting a spa treatment.) So upon our arrival, we were quite pleased to find a top-notch view of the mountains, lakes and pools in addition to 2 tickets to the Spa pool.

Now at this point I'm in heaven. I'm happy as a lark and excited to enjoy 2 full days in one of my favorite places.

So here is where the story gets really good.

Have you ever heard of the problems with valet services having thieves? A 17-year old parking attendant with the eyes of Golom (you know, from Lord of the Rings...I must...Have....It....) decided to take the speakers out of Mark's car.

Let me tell you how a high-class hotel property solves a problem like that.
>> They buy you breakfast IMMEDIATELY to calm your nerves.
>> They take care of your entire stay.
>> They get you a discount at the spa.
>> AND they arrange for a wonderfully romantic dinner at the best restaurant on the property.

To top it all off, the valet services manager was amazing. He researched the entire incident, identified the thief, then confronted him and convinced him to return the speakers. So not only did we get treated like royalty but in the end, there was no loss.

Needless to say, we will return frequently to the Marriott Desert Hot Springs. We even have a guaranteed "front row" parking spot forever! =-)