Residence Inn by Marriott Baltimore at The Johns Hopkins Medical Campus

Our room smelled lovely, the sheets were clean, and the soft bed was really comfortable. We were on the 15th floor, which I liked, though there was no view. Parking was uncertain, but we found a good spot both times we went out. The valet kept pushing us to use their service, which was the one annoyance. Otherwise, we had a nice trip and I’d stay again.

Shamar made breakfast stand out on Saturday morning. He had everything ready on time, kept a close eye on the buffet, cleaned up, and welcomed guests. I’ve had breakfast at plenty of Marriott hotels, and he was special. It’s great to see someone take pride in their work.

I only stopped in to use the restroom, but it was inviting as always, with touchless water, soap, and flushing, plus a big mirror where you can check your outfit head to toe. As soon as I came into the lobby in my work uniform, someone greeted me with a smile and hello and pointed me toward it. The Marriott’s fresh, clean look inside and out always impresses me. I’ve stayed in Marriott rooms in other states and countries, so I know what to expect there too. To me, Marriott is awesome and ahead of the other hotels.

The gym was great, breakfast was convenient but only okay, and the staff were kind. I was there for a conference, and the location worked well for that. There’s a hospital across the street, plus a Starbucks and 7 eleven nearby. The area didn’t feel very safe, though I felt secure inside the hotel. Construction next door left my car with a thick layer of dirt on it. My first room smelled strongly of cigarette smoke. They moved me to a cleaner room, but I’d still give cleanliness 3/5. The front desk didn’t answer the phone, so I had to go downstairs whenever I had a question. The room was $160 a night, plus $42 nightly valet, parking tax, and tourism tax. It was a fine, convenient stay for the conference, just not my best hotel experience.