I’ve always loved staying at hotels—especially more upscale ones like the hotels we vacationed at when our daughter was little. Our favorite vacation place was Disney World and we made a point of choosing one of their hotels because they were so wonderfully decorated. As you may know, Disney specializes in meticulously replicating furnishing, staff costuming and décor to carry out a theme. The effect can be quite dazzling.
Now, I prefer a hotel that caters to business travelers—they are generally understated and quieter. And because they aren’t trying to capture the family market, there rarely are noisy neon game rooms, over-priced cartoon character breakfasts or children’s program—all of which pleases me.
My hotel of choice is Hilton Garden Inn—a business hotel that I frequent when we travel to Tampa for my husband’s cancer treatment. They give us a discounted price and a safe, secure place to stay—even if I am alone in the room.
There are many hotels in the area—and so is Bush Gardens—a family vacation destination. So it would be possible to stay in a nearby hotel and be over-run by hyper-excited children—or worse, the school field trip! I have experienced both of these unhappy phenomena is other hotels in the area. Imagine my delight when I discovered the lovely Hilton Garden Inn!
Except a strange thing happened last weekend. Starting on Friday morning the place began to fill up with—you guessed it—families! Now, I like children and cherish my family. However, there is something about the vacation mentality that makes some parents forget that their children are much more delightful when they are being watched. I worried that my adult, business-oriented haven was becoming (gulp) a family hotel….What could I do?
Well, thankfully, the surge ended just as quickly as it began. By Monday, the business suits arrived once again and the families went home with sun burn and souvenirs. And, I hope, happy memories of a fun family vacation.
The weekend is approaching and I will be leaving—just in time. I saw the first group of families arrive today. Everyone was excitedly looking over the Bush Gardens maps and making plans for the next day.
Thankfully, Monday is coming. Soon.
I can totally relate, Kathy. Kids can have a good time without being allowed to run willd in adult places.
You are so right – peace and quiet is what my husband and I like. We really enjoy staying at the Marriot Court Yard – love all those business suits : )
We love our Hilton Homewood Suites in IL for our summer respite. But it is family-time on weekends and business suites on weekdays. Who cares? I’m retired and on vacation all summer!
I agree with you where as I enjoy a nice quiet place to relax.
I can relate to your feelings about family oriented hotels. Somehow parents think it’s ok for their children to be less supervised because the are on vacation. I think sometimes the parents’ brains are on vacation too. Thinking of you and Dan.
Mel
Just caught up on you musings. Reminded me of how much I miss you. Goes without saying but “if you need anything I’m here”. Hey I can do hotels too, but if I can afford it, I really really really (that’s enough already!) bed and breakfast places. It is neat, clean and private. The last magical b&b I stayed at was at Tybee Island. In the early morning walks (and yes I still do them) I walked along the beach with dolphins dancing on the seaside. It was beautiful, enchanting and a unique breakfast was a nice topper.
Thanks.