Gaslamp Plaza Suites

The rooftop has lovely views, and the hotel is close to lots of public transit and lively nightlife, if that’s what you’re after. My room was spacious, pretty, and cleaned beautifully, I think by Susana. There were a few little signs of the building’s history, but the stay was still comfortable, clean, and happy. Merry at the front desk was an amazing receptionist and a real help during my stay.

The staff at Gaslamp Plaza Suites made my business trip from Thailand much easier. I’m especially grateful to Holly Voit, Executive Assistant, and Merry. They were warm and helpful throughout. I had some trouble getting the accommodation receipts to meet my institution’s strict government reimbursement requirements in Thailand. The team patiently reissued them several times until the format was right, and I was able to complete the paperwork successfully. They also helped with several parcels I’d ordered before arriving. One replacement package came after I had checked out, but they received it and arranged to forward it to my new location in another city. They handled all of it with great care and a pleasant attitude. I’m sincerely grateful for their support and hospitality.

The loudest problem for us was the party noise across the street. Thursday through Saturday, people were shouting and whooping into the early hours. If you’re looking to party, you may enjoy it, but my husband and I didn’t. Even so, we had a pleasant stay and would consider coming back. We had a one-bedroom suite through an owner share program, so housekeeping came twice in our 12 days. The staff did a great job both times. The bedroom was roomier than most, the bed was comfortable, and the living area was nicely furnished and well kept. It had a small fridge, an even smaller microwave, dishes, glasses, utensils, and a little sink. Bring a sharp knife if you plan to cook, because the one supplied wouldn’t cut bread. I asked for thinner pillows and a few other things, and the response was prompt. The bathroom layout was unusual, but the water pressure was good, temperature easy to adjust, and there were plenty of towels and adequate toiletries. Merry was the standout staff member. She was joyful, friendly, and full of useful information and recommendations. Our birthdays are a day apart, and she sang to me. She’s a major reason I’d think about returning. Other staff generally seemed ill informed, uninterested, or unable to answer questions, even about events posted around the hotel. The Gaslamp District location is handy for restaurants, a theater, groceries, and the trolley and bus, all within walking distance. The bayfront is about a quarter mile downhill. Seniors with a Pronto pass can ride around San Diego for a maximum of $3 a day. Online photos are misleading, since the mirrors make things look about twice as large. The entrance shows the hotel could use an update. The small lobby was clean and nicely decorated for Christmas, but the reception area was rough, cluttered, and unappealing. The elevator feels like a trip back in time, so ask staff how it works before heading up. The rooftop patio has tables, chairs, wide umbrellas, and expansive views of the Gaslamp District. There’s also a pleasant area for coffee and tea, with a toaster.

The room was loud from the Gaslamp bars and clubs, and it felt really dirty. The shower looked unclean and rusty, so I wasn’t comfortable using it. I think there may have been fecal matter on the toilet roll holder, and the linens weren’t in great shape. I only needed a few hours of sleep, but even that short stay wasn’t ideal. The lobby has a motel feel. Valet takes your car to an offsite lot, with no self parking, so leave extra time to get it back. The living room area was spacious, but the bedroom was so small the bathroom door touched the bed.