The Westin Washington, D.C. City Center

I don't know how I even got a room in this place within my price range (probably because I booked 12 hours in advance), but this was much swankier than I am used to, and considering I showed up in ripped jeans toting two misbehaved dogs behind me, everyone was very nice and helpful. One concierge even recommended a dog park nearby. The only things that irked me were that they charge for wireless internet ($20 for the day or $40 for the week), and they charge $40 a day for parking (which they didn't tell me about until checkout). However, maybe if I'd ever stayed at a nice hotel before I would have expected that.

Overall, very good.

The staff was very helpful from taking our bags out of the car to the room...to helping us find the perfect restaurant to dine at.

Parking was outrageous (for guests). We parked on the street and fed the meter early AM. We assumed pool, shame on us, check if You need it. Initial room was small for our needs but when brought to the staff's attention they were outstanding and prompt in meeting our needs. Place is great and convienient to everything. 7.5 out of 10 for us.

The hotel is very nice and in an OK location. We struggled a bit finding places to eat and things to do after dark, but if you're up for a walk (which we were) you can stroll to the monuments and such... My only complaint is the lack of free wifi for guests. There is wifi available, of course, for a substantial fee and even that was "down" during my stay.

The front desk staff were not very friendly and not very knowledgable about their jobs. I was told in the morning I could book when I arrived at the hotel and they would match the Orbitz price. I wasn't sure if I was going to make it to DC that day so I didn't want to book it. When I got to the hotel they said they wouldn't match the Orbitz price and I would have to use their computer at a cost of $6.75 to book the reservation.  Once I did that I got my card keys and went to my room. Of course the keys didn't work so when I went back down to the front desk, the desk clerk wanted to call maintenance. I told him to just give me a new room, and he said, "Why didn't I think of that?" The room was very nice. It was clean and the bed was comfortable. The female concierge was very helpful and showed me where to go. The White House and Mall were half a mile away. Unfortuantely, not too many great places to eat nearby. Plenty of CVS pharmacies. They're everywhere!  The next day I got a bill under my door. When I went to check out the front desk clerk, who acted as if she was doing me a big favor by talking to me, told me that I wouldn't be billed from them and Orbitz. Well, surprise I was! Big shocker. My credit card company is currently disputing the charge. The doorman was very helpful when I left and gave me very easy directions out of the city. They also hit you up for $40 to park your car. No overnight parking garages near by. Not worth taking your chance on the street.   Don't know if I'd stay there again. Didn't love the location, and really didn't love the front desk staff. 

Suite was found to be poorly furnished and incomplete for occupancy. Probably upgraded and complete after departure and for TV, PC, and lighting. Plumbing was not turned on. Prior guests beverage glasses and dishes remained on balcony the entire stay. Doorbell inoperative and news delivery attempted by forced entry and than not at all. Room bar was warm temperature containing prior occupancy take home. No room refridgerator. The hotel kitchen was not completed with no room service and buffet only available.