Hampton Inn & Suites Alexandria Old Town Area South

After a 16-hour drive from Florida on my own, I was cold and worn out, but Pauola at the front desk and Chris made the night much better. They greeted me warmly, got me checked in quickly, and were both helpful, polite, and professional. They represented Hilton really well. Parking was easy at $11, and the lot had been plowed nicely despite the cold. At checkout, Mimi B was also a huge help. I hope Pauola, Chris, and Mimi B get recognized for their care and top-notch service.

We had a great mini vacation and plan to come back in the spring. Nicole W. made check-in easy and welcoming, and gave my husband and me all the information we needed. Ian had answered my questions when I confirmed the reservation, and he was just as pleasant in person. The hotel had a lovely Christmas feel and smelled wonderful when we walked in. Bathrooms were very clean, and breakfast was delicious, especially the ridiculously cute mini waffle maker. The mattress wasn't very comfortable, and the market prices felt high: two waters, a ginger ale, and a Snickers cost $15. We also kept missing the cookies at 5 a.m. If I could, I'd give this Hampton Inn ten stars.

Torrey, the Head Chef, was so kind and attentive, and very professional with her staff and the suburbanites. She really added to an already great breakfast. I had blueberry waffles, fresh bagels, oatmeal, strawberry compote, juice, cereal, yogurt, soft breakfast potatoes, a fluffy omelette cooked just right, and sausage. Everything was delicious. This was the best hotel breakfast I've had anywhere. Thank you!

Finding the parking entrance after dark was tricky, so watch for the turn. Parking is $10 a night, which isn't awful, but I'd rather have it included in the room price. The room itself was nice and pretty much what we expected, and the bathroom looked good, but the toilet barely flushed even when it was empty. The shower was the biggest problem: the temperature kept swinging from lukewarm to scalding while I left the hot water on, with no adjustment from me. It made it hard to take a warm shower for more than a few minutes. Aside from those issues, it was a good hotel experience.