Residence Inn Alexandria Old Town/Duke Street by Marriott

The staff were polite and really helpful, and the stay was good quality. There's a decent gym, a kitchen with cookware, clean bathrooms and linens, and buffet breakfast. Whole Foods and some restaurants are within walking distance. Parking is $50 a day, though we used metered spaces on the back street, which cost less on weekends. I'd stay here again.

The free breakfast was lovely, and the kitchen and host staff were excellent. We also got an unexpected upgrade to a larger room, which was very nice. The staff were welcoming, and I felt safe in both the parking area and hotel. It's close enough to get into DC quickly, while staying outside the city's riffraff. The room was very clean and bug-free, though it felt a little dated and could use some updates. I'd definitely stay again. Five stars!

Everyone we met was friendly, from the hotel staff and other guests to people we passed on the street while walking around. It may be the friendliest place I've ever visited. The location is a good deal, and breakfast is complimentary. I highly recommend it and will be back soon!

Housekeeping is the best part, and the front desk staff are gracious, though they don't seem to have much authority. The property shut down its nighttime receptions and stopped the shuttle in January, when it was most needed. Parking is so tight that getting out of the car is a struggle, and snow had closed half the garage. They offer Showtime instead of HBO. I once stayed at a Reno casino during a major storm. The heat worked, but little else was open anywhere, so managers set out tables of sandwiches and snacks. That felt like hospitality. Maybe I'll update this review in a few days.