Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Alexandria

The rooms, service, and location were all five-star for a hotel rated three stars. Breakfast was less impressive: the eggs tasted artificial, there was only one meat option, and even the “bold” coffee was barely stronger than hot water. The cold items were better. Internet was another downside. We couldn’t connect without paying for an upgrade, even though we were members of the hotel chain.

We’ll definitely come back. The rooms were very clean and breakfast had a great selection. Someone above us sounded like they were jumping off a bed and landing hard over and over, from about 1 a.m. until 5. Manager Jeff was accommodating and moved us to another room for our second night.

We had noisy neighbors upstairs, so the hotel helped us move rooms and get some sleep. That’s the only reason I’m not giving it five stars. The place was clean, the staff were helpful, and it’s an easy stay right off I-94 with stores and restaurants close by. Downtown Alexandria is about a five-minute drive.

The people here are thoughtful, classy, and take good care of you, so I’d recommend the place. Just know that breakfast repeats the same things every day. If you’re on the road for more than two or three nights, you may want to find breakfast somewhere else. The eggs are the standard fake kind.