The Camby, Autograph Collection

The front desk team was super friendly, and the room was clean with an extra-comfy bed. We were there for a Valentine's Day magic show, and the best part was how well they communicated. When we got hungry in the middle of the night and wanted to heat leftovers, our room didn't have a microwave or plates. I texted the desk, and within minutes they offered to bring both up. The next day I asked by text for a late checkout, and they immediately offered to let us stay until 4 p.m. at no extra charge. The whole stay exceeded my expectations. They've made me a Marriott member for life!

The rooms were comfortable, clean, and well maintained, and the staff across the hotel were friendly and helpful. The on-site shop was convenient, though a little expensive, and my friends thought the coffee wasn't very good. The Camby, Autograph Collection in Phoenix has a stylish modern feel, with beautifully designed lobby and common spaces. They're very fragrant, which could be a bit much if you are sensitive to strong scents.

We came for a weekend by the pool, but when we arrived it was closed for a private party that afternoon and evening. Nobody told us or updated the website. Our room also wasn't ready, so we waited in the bar without being offered a drink or anything, even though we're titanium members and had requested early check-in. The room smelled badly musty, so we had to switch rooms. They offered breakfast, which made us laugh since titanium members always get it included. Breakfast was just okay, and the included option was yogurt and a muffin. There was mold in the shower, stains on the carpet, and paper coffee cups in the room. This is definitely not a five-star hotel, maybe 3.5. There are much better Marriotts in the area.

The breakfast was very good, about $20 per person, though the restaurant coffee wasn't great. The location is excellent for restaurants and hiking at the Phoenix mountain preserve. Valet parking costs $40, charged separately from the hotel bill. The AMC theater next door offers parking for $16 a night as a cheaper option, and there isn't other parking. I spent two nights here over Thanksgiving. The staff were friendly and accommodating, but for an Autograph Collection hotel at this price, I expected cleaner rooms. There was mold in the shower, and as a nonsmoker I noticed the room smelled like previous guests had smoked. The odor faded after the first night.