So finished up a 2 night stay here at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego... here are some thoughts on the property-
Firstly, its a huge convention center hotel. It's nice, but nothing special in terms of decor. It looks like they are in the midst of a remodel, as many of the ground floor shops are currently closed, and the fact that they are under new ownership/management is prominently displayed.
Check-In was easy a few days ago, a short line, but as a Platinum (formerly Diamond) member, was able to use the special line which was actually staffed (+1). We had used a suite upgrade from when I was a Diamond member, and we were supposed to be given a Junior (connector style suite), but they upgraded us to a massive Grand Suite at check-in (+1). This is one of the larger hotel rooms I've been in before. Huge bedroom area with a sitting area in it, a separate office area off the living room area, a dining room area, a guest bath, a kitchenette (another separate room), and the master bath has dual everything (including dual showers). In fact, our biggest worry was the room was just too large for 2 people, and we'd end up leaving things all over the place and forget them at check-out.
The view was spectacular, can see the USS Midway, the bay, etc, as we were up on the 31st floor. Furnishings in the room were nice, though nothing particularly amazing to write about. Everything was clean and in good condition. Could also enjoy watching planes landing and taking off from SD Airport a bit into the distance.
Grand Room was a bit disappointing... not one of the better ones I've experienced in terms of offerings. It's adequate for a light breakfast, but skip going there the rest of the day.
We didnt try any of the hotel restaurants or bars, so cant comment on those, except that there is a ground floor bar that is packed with convention and hotel guests and plays live and loud music at night.
The location is good for convention events since its just a short walk away. Gas Lamp is also about a 10 minute walk, which is where we spent most of our time. But its not 'in the heart' of Gaslamp, like some other hotels are that I've stayed at in the past. It's also right next door to Seaport Village (yes, I know its a tourist trap, but its still a cute tourist trap to walk through at night).
One thing I definitely didnt like... $36 for valet, $26 for self parking. Thats just ridiculous. I know parking is at a premium here, but common, those are just asinine numbers, this isnt San Fran or something.
We didnt particularly have any special requests or too much interaction with the staff, but they were generally friendly and helpful any time we did speak to them.
Overall, I'd rate this hotel a B+. It's on the older side, maybe the in-progress remodel will improve things. The location is good (but not outstanding). Everything else was good, and we really didnt have any major complaints. I'd stay here again in the future (but also likely to check out the Andaz) if coming to SD.
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