SpringHill Suites by Marriott Sarasota Bradenton

We've made this our regular place when we're in the area. The front desk team has always been friendly and helpful, and our rooms have been clean, comfortable, and roomy. We even gave the pool a try, but this time of year it was too cold for Floridians! There's hot breakfast, plus coffee and tea that may be available all day. I'd seen the mixed reviews and usually only book places rated 4.5 stars or higher, so I wasn't sure. I'm glad I tried it, and don't understand all the bad reviews.

The most disappointing part was housekeeping hurrying me out even though my late checkout had been approved and confirmed. Breakfast, on the other hand, was a highlight. Andrea kept everything ready, stocked, and running smoothly. The guestroom and property were clean and modern, and the holiday decorations gave the lobby a cheerful feel. The location worked well for getting around: the airport is across the street, Ringling Museum is under a mile away, and UTC outdoor mall is less than five miles off. Lido, Siesta, Longboat, and other beautiful world-class beaches are an easy drive, and there's a botanical garden a few miles away, though I didn't get to visit. I liked the body wash enough to look into ordering it online.

Keira and Mary made my four nights here feel so welcoming. They were kind, pleasant, and went above and beyond whenever I needed something. It almost felt like being part of their family. Another lovely woman helped me when I was leaving, though I don't know her name. Everyone I came across, including the cleaning staff around the breakfast buffet, was kind. I didn't have anyone clean my room during my stay. The sheets had a strange smell that I only noticed on the second night, as if they'd been washed and left in a basket too long. They felt freshly laundered. The bed and pillows were comfortable, and the smell bothered me but not enough to ask anyone to come in. The hotel is next to the airport, with no bars or much of anything around, but I would absolutely stay again to see Keira and Mary.

The staff went out of their way to accommodate everyone, even with the hotel incredibly busy for a large soccer game and the laundry room and two ice machines out of order. My son and I were there for a tournament from 2/20-2/23, and our room was clean and had everything we needed. Kirra deserves a special mention. She was cheerful, gracious, kind, and so helpful. She was also training a new employee, and stayed patient and calm with him and the guests even when the counter was busy and some people weren't kind. Thanks to everyone for a wonderful stay!