DoubleTree by Hilton Birmingham Perimeter Park

Only two towels were provided for our four people, which was inconvenient and unexpected. We had called three weeks ahead to reserve a suite with a sofa bed for our group, but the room had no sofa bed when we arrived. That was the main reason we'd booked it. The reservation details and basic amenities didn't match what we needed, which made the stay frustrating. Better communication and more attention to guests would help.

The rooms were quiet and spacious, the bathroom was comfortable, and the shower was better than most hotel showers. I liked the soap's smell. The pillows were the one bad part for me, since I don't like the feather pillows Hilton uses. Syble at the front desk was cheerful, pleasant, and helpful, and Anastasia was so sweet while working breakfast. The continental breakfast was delicious with lots of good options. After a long day of driving, dinner was a welcome break and surprisingly tasty. It was one of the best hotel restaurant dinners I've had.

After being up for more than 14 hours, not being able to check in was a 0/5. The hotel system was down for hours, and we spent two hours waiting in the lobby. James at the front desk did everything he could to help us pass the time, handing out cookies, water, appetizers, cupcakes, and even cards. His service was a 5/5. Give that guy a raise.

Breakfast cost another $14, which felt like too much given what I’d already paid and the rest of the stay. I was also charged for parking, but it was just a basic spot at the far end of the lot, with a long walk to the hotel. The air conditioning problem only came up after I’d checked in, something I should have been told beforehand. The place is dated and badly needs updating, and the front desk staff were unfriendly from the moment I arrived. I haven’t traveled much in recent years, but this was one of my most disappointing hotel stays. I expected a lot better.