A Wren Says

Months ago, I booked in for a stay at the Fairmont Millenium Park in Chicago. I wanted to try the brand for a while, with high hopes. I entered the property, noticing a rotunda decked out in warm wood, and I quickly went up to check out my room.

I had booked a double, which was seemingly upgraded, but I can’t tell what the difference would be. The view from the window included a sliver of the water and beautiful glimpse of the sunrise. Maybe that was the change.

The two beds were large and comfortable. I had a separate desk and sitting area. The bathroom featured a soaking tub and a standalone shower. The bath products were Le Labo in the scent Rose 31. There was a Nespresso maker and a kettle. The room was nice. The valet greeted me warmly every time. The gym had everything I needed as someone who kinda wants to work out but doesn’t do anything serious. But there was something missing about the experience. Everything was fine. Maybe I shouldn’t have, but I felt underwhelmed.

It didn’t feel special.

I would imagine this qualified as a very nice hotel in years past. But with the amount of properties that I am starting to tour, this is sitting lower on the list, in terms of the luxury spectrum. And that’s okay. I think I should have managed my expectations. In my defense, some of the annoyance came from just the struggle to get coffee mugs replaced in the room. Of the many asks one could make, that seems like it should have been the easiest to accommodate.

Perhaps if I had known about and booked the Fairmont Gold level, I would be singing the hotel’s praises. But I don’t think that is how that should work. All of the tiers you offer should be well done, and from there people will choose to move up to invest more of their loyalty in you.

So at the end of the day, it wasn’t a bad experience. And if you come in the with right expectations, you’ll likely enjoy your stay. The property is walking distance from many of the tourist spots and easily accessible via transit. But there are cheaper properties that will do the same job nearby.

 Also, I have more to say about the food tomorrow, which largely factors into my opinion of the property. Stay tuned.