Articles Mentioning Upper-middle-range

Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club – Molokai, Maui & Lanai Towers

A Marriott Vacation Club property with 442 studio, one-, and two-bedroom villas, Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club – Lahaina & Napili Towers primarily appeals to families with kids. The property’s three massive pool complexes feature kid-friendly amenities, like water slides and climbable pirate ships, and the hotel’s beachfront location means guests have easy access to Maui’s famous Kaanapali Beach. Most villas are equipped with full kitchens and in-unit laundry, and feature separate living and sleeping spaces. The resort has one full service restaurant, a poolside grab-and-go, and a Starbucks, but on-site dining is mediocre at best. It’s worth comparing rates at The Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas, a similar (though much newer) property with nicer rooms. 

Wyndham Grand Desert

With its 787 spacious suites and relaxing pools, this mellow, off-the-Strip time-share hotel might have you thinking you’re not in Vegas at all. The upper-middle-range Wyndham property is a bit removed from all the action, since the Strip is about a 15-minute walk away (the hotel offers a free shuttle service). Highlights at this massive hotel include three attractive outdoor pools, four hot tubs, two fitness centers, activity rooms packed with arcade games, pool tables, and organized activities. Suites are large and have full kitchens, living rooms, dining areas, and washers/dryers. Dining options aren’t great — there’s a cafe, lobby and poolside bars, and a Starbucks cart. Wi-Fi incurs a fee. For something with a more central location, check out the Jockey Club, which also offers spacious suites with kitchens. 

Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach

Small standard rooms and a location 10 minutes from the beach are drawbacks, but the Courtyard offers solid service, a pool, Jacuzzi, spa, and a relaxation room at affordable rates.

Embassy Suites By Hilton – Waikiki Beach Walk

This three-and-a-half-pearl, 369-suite hotel by Hilton has a family-friendly vibe and prime location on Waikiki Beach Walk. It’s surrounded by numerous shops and restaurants, and the beach is only a two-minute walk away. Suites are a bit dated, but include separate living spaces plus microwaves and refrigerators, while some add furnished lanais with gorgeous ocean views. There’s an outdoor pool with a sundeck, hot tub, and kids’ pool, plus a modern fitness center and 24-hour business center including meeting rooms. The all-day restaurant serves American and Asian cuisines, plus a free breakfast buffet with made-to-order omelettes. The lack of resort fees is a nice surprise, and Wi-Fi is free throughout. For something with a bit more, check rates at the Marriott Waikiki instead, which adds a spa and Italian restaurant.

Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel

Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel is a three-pearl ocean-view property across the street from Waikiki’s Kuhio Beach. It’s 645 air-conditioned rooms have surf-inspired interiors with flat-screen TVs, video game systems, mini-fridges, and balconies (most with ocean or partial-ocean views). However, the style is tired and noise can be an issue. The outdoor pool also has ocean views and is surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas, though it’s small. Happy hour specials, live music, and Aston’s lively tiki-inspired restaurant all receive mostly positive reviews from previous guests. Hotel freebies include DVD and video game rentals, beach chairs, and daily newspapers. For an oceanfront stay with fresher rooms, a bigger pool, and free daily fitness classes (as opposed to the Aston’s small fitness center), it’s worth checking out Park Shore Waikiki instead.

New York Marriott Downtown

Located in the Financial District immediately next to the construction going on at Ground Zero, this Marriott is mostly a place for business travelers to rest their heads. But the downtown location has more going for it than many visitors realize, including proximity to the underrated Hudson River Greenway. The clean, and spacious rooms, many with views of New York Harbor, make this hotel a decent alternative to the nearby Millenium Hilton (if only because there’s less construction noise). This Marriott is also a good alternative to its Midtown sister, especially for visitors looking for easy access to (and views of) New York’s revitalized waterfront.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Convention Center Las Vegas

With free breakfast, a free open bar every evening and free Wi-Fi, this casino-free suites hotel is a solid choice for business travelers heading to the nearby convention center. But the lovely 11-story lobby atrium can’t overcome the tired design, disappointing pool and dark rooms. Business-traveler friendly, but forgettable.

Pelican Hotel

The upper-middle-range Pelican Hotel is a boutique property set in a classic piece of Miami Modern architecture and owned by Italian fashion brand Diesel. Its the quirky and kitsch interiors that really steal the show, brimming with hand-picked one-offs and retro props that make this one of Miami’s most original hotels. Although some are starting to look a little shabby, the 30 themed guest rooms are witty and fun with genuine vintage antiques; some offer ocean views though most overlook neighboring buildings. While facilities are limited, the street-front cafe and bar are popular and buzzy, plus free cocktails can help guests get in the mood. If lack of pool is a deal breaker, however, check out the more minimalist, party-focused Shore Club hotel up the coast. 

Hall Hotel South Beach

The Hall Hotel South Beach is a three-and-a-half-pearl property with 163 rooms located in the heart of South Beach. It’s a block from the beach and two blocks from the popular Lincoln Road pedestrian mall. The hotel features a hip vintage-tropical design, though rooms are on the small side. Still, they’re fresh and colorful, and come with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and upscale toiletries. The casual on-site restaurant is led by Spike Mendelsohn, of “Top Chef” fame, and there’s a backyard lounge. The large pool is ringed by cabanas and lounge chairs, and chairs and towels are also provided for guests on the beach. Travelers looking to save a few dollars could check out the nearby Albion, where rates are lower but there are fees for beach services.

Shula’s Hotel & Golf Club

The 222-room, three-and-a-half-pearl Shula’s Hotel and Golf Club is a well-established landmark in suburban Miami Lakes. The quality restaurant, expansive fitness center, and relaxing spa draw locals and appeal to many business travelers. A lovely interior courtyard garden and a pool are also on-site. Spacious rooms have modern amenities like large flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and mini-fridges. Still, it’s a 30-minute drive to the beach and Miami’s sights. Those looking for more convenient city access might prefer Hyatt Place Miami Airport-West/Doral, which also provides free breakfast. 


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