If you have been around for a while or have visited my blog often this summer, you know this year has been all about staycations and enjoying what the DMV-area has to offer as a visitor.
After Virginia countryside, Alexandria Old Town, it was about time I stayed in the heart of D.C.. Although I had done a staycation at Pentagon City last December, but that doesn't really count because we never really left the hotel property.
For our D.C. stay we picked the newly renovated, The Watergate Hotel. It was in the heart of Georgetown and I had heard that it had an excellent ambiance and decor. We checked in around noon. Our room was not ready as expected, so we stored our luggage with the concierge and headed to the restaurant to grab a bite.




I must mention that while I was impressed by the exteriors and the refurbished property itself, I did not have a good experience with the front of house staff. From the doorman to the front desk, everyone seemed unfriendly and disinterested through the whole process.

The restaurant staff however was quite warm and friendly. Our server made an excellent suggestions for non-alcoholic beverages and vegetarian options for me. The restaurants itself was quite good and had great food options and a beautiful setting. The Top Of The Gate (aka rooftop) has an excellent 360 view of Washington. The Whiskey Bar is quite an eye catcher. The wall at the bar is made up of some 2500 bottles.
We were in a Deluxe room which was quite spacious spacious. The bed, linens, towels and other amenities were top notch. The room had a fabulous view to the Potomac River. The spa and swimming pool area was quite impressive too.
One of the drawbacks of the hotel however, was that it was not really all that close to any D.C. attraction. You had to walk for a good 15 minutes to get anywhere or needed a car to commute. Since I enjoy walking it was not an issue but for someone who wants to be amidst the action this might not be the best option. Also, the Uber pick up is quite confusing, as they are not allowed to drive up to the hotel's entrance so you have to go and wait by the street which is quite a nuance.
While I did have a good stay, and appreciate the attention to details like avant-garde architecture and retro-chic staff uniforms I do think the hotel can work on its service and in turn improve all customers' experience.
While I did have a good stay, and appreciate the attention to details like avant-garde architecture and retro-chic staff uniforms I do think the hotel can work on its service and in turn improve all customers' experience.
D.C. is a tough city. I prefer to spend most of my time in Alexandria when I am out that way.
ReplyDeleteWow that view is amazing. I've never visited Washington but it's in my bucket list.
ReplyDeleteI love your insights here and your style! I haven't explored that city in years!
ReplyDeletewish i will be there someday. D.C is very much in my travel list
ReplyDeleteI live about 30 minutes from DC and we've had many staycations there! It really is such a lovely city. I always enjoy seeing all the monuments lit up at night.
ReplyDeleteIt looks really plush and very nice! I am sorry to hear the staff didn't really add to the experience. Call me old fashioned but I believe in good service, it doesn't cost to treat your guests nice or make them feel welcome.
ReplyDeleteGreat looking room. Such a shame not all the staff were on board and understanding. Puts a real damper on your stay.
ReplyDeleteThose rooms look amazing! I love walking to so don't think I'd mind either
ReplyDeleteSorry your hotel stay wasn't great. I like going to DC for the museums.
ReplyDeleteI think staycations are more appealing to me these days. While I would love to travel, going long distances seem to be more of a hassle. Staying closer to home, but not in home, is relaxing.
ReplyDeleteThis water gate hotel looks like a great for staycation. The room was so simple yet beautiful. and your outfit looks so perfect to you.
ReplyDeleteCool. I've always been curious about that place due to its history. Speaking of Washington, have you ever visited Rasika? I heard about it on NPR yesterday and saw it has a new cookbook.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2017/10/18/558350731/in-new-cookbook-acclaimed-indian-restaurant-finally-spills-its-secrets
This hotel looks so comfy. Looks so simple but comfortable. I love your dress.
ReplyDeleteI love reading about your staycations. You seem to always be visiting the really good spots. I love how honest your are in your reviews too. I would have been bummed out with the unfriendly staff. I can't wait to visit Washington.
ReplyDeleteI've never visited D.C. Just driven through it lol but I'm new to the DMV area so I will have to plan a trip there!
ReplyDeleteWe've been to DC quite a few times but we've never stayed here! I wish we would have now though! Looks like a great place!
ReplyDeleteLooks like a great room! I love old town Alexandria. It’s so beautiful and quaint. I used to live in DC!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful hotel! It looks like you had a great time in DC. Loving your look in one of the last photos :)
ReplyDeleteI've never been to DC before but it looks really interesting and relaxing. I'd love to visit someday.
ReplyDeleteFrom your vivid description the total scene of this hotel is quite clearer to me.. Though I never visited DC yet I can say Few things about it from now...
ReplyDeleteLooks really nice! I've been to DC once, but would love to go back!
ReplyDeleteI haven't been to DC in such a long time but after taking a look at these photos I think I have a great idea of where to go and where to stay. Lovely shots, you put the travel bug in this LA Girl!
ReplyDeleteDanielle | FollowMyGut.com <3
I really love seeing this kind of insight. This water gate hotel looks so simple. If ever I had a chance to travel in DC. I will definitely recommend this with my husband.
ReplyDeletecommented as Angela Ricardo Bethea
Love this review of DC! The photos enhances your review. Will definitely check it out.
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