Thanks for the Articles

Dear Mr. Widzer,

I just love reading your column! Although I am not a very frequent traveler, I just smile when I read your columns because I can instantly remember an experience that proves you know the travel industry.

I have been more disappointed at the service of hotels more often than I care to admit. A few years back my husband and I vacationed in beautiful Southern California. We splurged and reserved some of the more upscale hotels for our visit. Then the fun began. Our first hotel in San Diego didn't have a room for us despite my confirming the reservations only the day before. We got a "meeting room" with a fold-out couch for the first night (actually the only night...we left). Then venturing down to beautiful La Jolla, our check-in at the next "boutique" hotel was quite a surprise. It seems that our room still had occupants and they would not leave! Our charming front desk person assured us that they had tried to get the occupants to leave but they just wouldn't do it. And of course, it was the only room available—they were booked completely! She then proceeded to tell us that there was a California law that stated they could not remove a person's belongings from a room. Well, there went our beach view because we were then offered a room at the Marriott. Yes, 15 miles away from the beach room we were so looking forward to.

Our third and final reservation was at an upscale hotel known for its luxury. We experienced the same vanishing wait staff you mention plus the wonder of finding various items of silverware littered throughout our room. The manager actually came to inspect the room because I don't think he really believed what we were saying. He was embarrassed but still arrogant. So when I read your articles, I have a good laugh.

It has been my experience that when you shoot for an upscale experience, you are mostly disappointed. But when you just go without any expectations, you usually get many pleasant surprises.

I appreciate your willingness to address the shortcomings of the hotel industry. We actually made the best of our trip and I look forward to another trip to Southern California.

Thanks for the articles. I really enjoy them and when I do travel, I take your advice!

Sincerely,

Sherry McCall
Dallas, Texas