Four Points by Sheraton Edmonton South

Our group, the Air Canada employee social fund, had a very successful Christmas party for 110 people. While we set up, we got the colour palette we wanted, and someone onsite helped with additions and arranging the room for the DJ and welcome table. There was plenty of parking, and some guests booked rooms for convenience. Monia shared lots of menu options as we planned, and the food went over well with the whole group. They also accommodated our celiac and vegetarian guests. The planner was flexible about changes and an increase in numbers. We'd happily have our party here again next year.

The bathroom was such a tight squeeze it felt like an airplane lavatory mixed with an escape room. Once inside, there was barely room to turn, so getting back out felt like reversing a trailer. Drop something in there and I guess it's gone. The thermostat was another struggle. It felt like a spin of the wheel between the Sahara and ice fishing on the North Saskatchewan River, with no in-between. I spent more time adjusting the heat than watching TV and nearly considered opening the window to negotiate with Mother Nature. At least the rooms are freshly renovated, clean, modern, and sharp, and the pillows were unbelievably soft. I lay down for a quick nap and woke up three hours later tucked under the duvet like I'd been snowed on with marshmallows. The $20 breakfast buffet, though, was a bold ask. The pancakes were like wet sponges, the bacon looked like it had only seen a picture of heat, the eggs were somehow dry and soggy, and the apple juice tasted as if it had passed through a shipping box. I've had better at a gas station at 5 a.m. on a work trip. It was a decent stay with clean rooms and heavenly pillows, maybe 3.5 stars. Five-star luxury is getting ahead of things. More like four points, with the fifth still being negotiated.

Monia did a great job coordinating our event, with professionalism and a positive attitude, and that was another reason we chose Four Points. The food and service were enjoyable, and the venue was well organized. For more than 200 guests, the food arrived on time, warm, fresh, and in a good quantity. Everything exceeded our expectations.

The location wasn't in the heart of Edmonton, but it was close to freeways and main roads, so getting around was easy. I also loved the complimentary morning coffee in the lobby. It saved me a stop at Tim Hortons on the way out. Staff were warm and welcoming whenever I ran into them in the halls or elevator. My room was spacious and clean, with a really comfortable bed. I tried the attached Duke of Argyll pub, which had a decent tap beer selection, Friday live music, and prices in line with other local restaurants. The deluxe pizza was superb. Breakfast at East 75 had a good buffet selection at a great price. Fantastic stay, and I'll be back when I'm in Edmonton again.