The Chicago Hotel Collection Ambassador Gold Coast

I booked this hotel last November, and its own website said the package was something guests could request, not something added automatically. Yet the hotel put it on my bill without asking or confirming, and the charge was more than twice the room price. There was no clear notice during booking that this fee would apply. When I raised it, staff first said the package was optional; once it was clear it shouldn’t have been added, they became evasive and tried to blame Booking.com. I consider this deceptive, predatory pricing. Adding a costly charge to a reservation without consent is unacceptable. Other reviews suggest this may have happened to others too. I plan to file complaints with local and national consumer protection groups, and make sure colleagues, friends, and other travelers avoid this hotel in Chicago. A business that misleads people with charges and shifts blame instead of taking responsibility doesn’t deserve customers.

For my birthday in November, my best friend and I stayed here, and the whole staff took great care of us. Even though I’m not in the top bracket, the place felt luxurious and made me feel rich. The atmosphere is sophisticated but still fun. The neighborhood was clean, and I hardly heard a police siren or saw panhandlers. It’s a lovely walk or a quick five minute Uber to anywhere you want to go. Cristian was an amazing manager. I never got to thank him in person for the care from everyone, including the front desk, bartender, and housekeeping, so I called him to say thanks. I’ve just rebooked for Saint Patrick’s Day. 100/100 stay.

The room was fairly clean, but could use new furniture, some refreshed decor, and a general update. The staff were friendly and helpful, and we liked the breakfast and drinks. The deal included a free breakfast and two drinks each, which was a great bonus and helped make up for the room.

Mr Thomas at reception was patient, kind, and helpful, and the barman was kind too. I booked through a third party, and the amenities fees were disclosed. The bed was really comfortable, and the food was good. Try the ambassador burger and golden fries. My room could use some fixing up, though that added to the charm of the hotel’s history. I wanted to see the rooftop, but it was closed when I got there after breakfast. The lobby, bar, and restaurant felt too hot in the mornings and evenings, but the other guests didn’t seem bothered, so it may have been more of a me problem. They may have been understaffed on my last night and morning, since the bar wait was longer than on other nights and they ran out of regular coffee around 8:15 on Saturday. One suggestion: offer a less expensive amenities package for solo travelers. I didn’t need breakfast for two and left half my water bottles, so maybe something $25-$40 cheaper. I had a great stay. Thanks 🙂