Sonesta ES Suites Cincinnati - Blue Ash

I’d been really enjoying this place, and all the front desk had to do was leave my stay on autopilot. Instead, Roxie, the assistant GM, called at 8 AM to ask what I meant by not knocking. I’d spent a detailed conversation with the night clerk explaining that I had a reservation ending and a new one beginning that day, backed by a credit card with plenty of room. I asked her to check both bookings, make sure everyone understood, and write a note on the night audit not to knock because I’d be asleep until near standard checkout. Then I’d come to the front to switch reservations and sign everything. I can’t fall asleep before 2 AM, and now my eyes are bloodshot, my head is pounding, and I’m tired but can’t get back to sleep. I’d imagined using my last day in town for a museum or sightseeing. Instead, I’m exhausted and angry. I have a heart condition, and you don’t get stolen sleep back. It’s a chip off your lifespan, all because a hotel employee disturbed someone paying by the night to rest, even though they wouldn’t tolerate a random knock or landline call in their own home. Do not disturb means do not disturb. Before calling or knocking, check your own records and type in the last name of the person you’re about to bother. A hotel room is a bedroom. I was asleep because it’s a bedroom. I know I need to sign forms for a new stay. I don’t need anyone explaining standard procedures I’ve done a million times three hours before they’re due. This isn’t my first rodeo. I’ve been away from home before and stayed in a hotel once or twice. Waking me to make sure I won’t be disturbed is farcical. Is there some shadow version of me who can answer a pointless call while the real me sleeps? I travel for months each year and have diamond status with a few major chains. I’m low maintenance and easy to please, not noisy, don’t leave big messes, and even leave the dishwasher running when I check out. I don’t forget to remove a DND sign when I’ve left the room, because I understand what setting expectations means. One phone call threw away all that goodwill and took away my one day to enjoy the city.

We’re here for the second time, in a two-bedroom suite. The layout sounds good on paper, with a bedroom and bathroom at each end and the kitchen and living room in the middle. In practice, the bedrooms and bathrooms feel tight and need a redo to make better use of the space. There’s a huge closet and dresser, but nowhere for suitcases, and I don’t want to unpack like that for a weekend. The sink has very little counter space, and the low living room furniture needs updating. Also, room 811 reeked of curry and cardamom. The furniture and carpet need a deep clean to get the odor out.

The suite had an impressive, spacious layout and a full kitchen with a full-size refrigerator, stove, and microwave. There’s even a food disposal. The bed was very comfortable, and the shower and tub combo was nice. Wish we could’ve stayed longer!

The rooms were amazing, better than most apartments, and roomy enough for three people. They felt familiar and comfortable, so relaxing was easy. We all slept really well in the quiet part of Cincinnati, maybe even better than we do at home. The beds were comfy, the staff were polite, and breakfast was great. A wonderful place when you’re visiting Cincinnati.