Courtyard San Diego Carlsbad

You'll need a car here, since there isn't really anything within walking distance. The property itself is pleasant, with a nice pool area and lots of lobby seating, and I liked the rooms, especially for a courtyard setting. The front desk staff were great and very helpful when I had an issue with billing and my membership.

The stay was going well until breakfast. My wife had called several days ahead because I have a dairy allergy, and was assured they could accommodate me and would know what was in the food. At breakfast, the staff couldn't tell us which foods contained dairy and suggested a bagel with butter. They were out of the dairy-free food, and no one could say whether the remaining options were safe. If we'd been told in advance they couldn't accommodate the allergy, I could have made other plans. Instead, we relied on the assurance that it would be no problem.

The rooms are on the small side and could use a face-lift, but the employees are excellent. Audits was especially helpful and always cheerful. There are several new employees as well.

I'm the guy with more than 200 Marriott stays, and this was pathetic. They kicked a professional consultant and skateboarder out of a room for smoking half a joint on the balcony. This Marriott team didn't even leave the simulator, yet they call themselves the choice hotel of the NFL. A laughing stock. Do not stay here. Respectfully, The dude who's had over 200 Marriott stays.