Minneapolis Marriott Southwest

This was a last minute staycation that turned into a mess on NYE. Staff was inattentive and dismissive of issues. Management was not onsite to ensure Marriott guest standards were delivered. M Club was not stocked or staffed (and it wasn’t busy). Children were allowed to run in/out, throw pillows, and climb on furniture which impacted guest experience. Bugs were present in the ladies locker room. Call to management was met with excuses and a promise to respond within 24 hours. Still waiting….

Hotel is just a bit dated. Rooms are clean, but nothing special. Just not a nice and new as you’d hope for the area. While the technical location is good. There is this weird one way road system that adds about 5 minutes before you can even drive out of the campus. The lounge is the most basic I’ve seen (even post vivid), and the food at the restaurant was just okay. I’d probably stay there again, but it doesn’t give the “full Marriott” vibe you may be expecting from the refreshed hotels in the last 5-10 years.

Apparently there was a billing issue. I tried to resolve it with the front desk and the general manager. Mind you I hadn't stayed at any hotel recently because of health issues. I reserved a room at this location because of the proximity to my class reunion. Previously there were only 4 elite levels, silver, gold, platinum and platinum plus. I stayed so many nights that I was awarded Gold Elite for life. Eventhough I had enjoyed Platinum for several years. Indeed, I'll give you an example of what Platinum really meant something back in the day. I had made a specific request for a certain room at the Marriott tower in Detroit. When I got to my room, it was exactly what I didn't want. I called the front desk and explained the situation. I was put on a brief hold and I was told to go to the 70th floor and someone would meet with me. I was taken to the Governors suite and wasn't charged any additional cost for the length of my stay. That's why I remained a loyal Marriott customer for over 20 years. These people I've dealt with apparently have no clue as to what an elite membership is about. Shame on them. I also told them that I was a Google guide with over 1.5 million views of my reviews and photographs. They obviously didn't care. Perhaps I'll find logging with another hotel chain in the future. In other words, good luck changing my mind. Because of a $100 difference I think that they need the money more than I do.