Hilton Savannah Desoto

Over the holiday, I took advantage of the amazing sale Hilton was offering by staying a few days at the Hilton Savannah Desoto.  The trip, with 2 nights in Savannah, was already planned since I was spending 2 weeks in Hilton Head, SC with my family.  Part of that trip required a couple of nights in Savannah prior to taking possession of the rental home on the island.  Originally, we had reserved rooms (6) at one of the Hampton Inns in the historic district of Savannah for about $120 per night (it was the best we could find).  I was actually going to use a free night on one of my nights.  Then Hilton threw out the home run pitch.  We quickly cancelled all previous reservations (this is why I like to preach to NEVER lock yourself into advance purchase hotel rooms) and re-booked at the full service Hilton in historic Savannah, for a whopping $54 per night.  

How was the hotel?  In the end, I would say just OK.  But for the price, I'm not going to complain much.  As a Diamond Hilton Honors Elite, I was not given any luxury suite or anything really special at check in (not even acknowledged); just a room on the higher floors with a balcony (don't get me started on the balcony yet!).  I was provided with 2 complimentary buffet coupons which were used on an "adequate" buffet in the morning.  

The room was clean and pretty much your standard room.  Wifi worked well. 

Some luxury amenities here... NOT!

The bathroom was tiny.  As a 6'5" person I was cramped; except in the shower which I thought was roomy for me.

CRAMPED!

Very roomy!

The view was beautiful; I can't complain about that.

Panorama

I didn't DARE get out on the balcony though.  These look scary.  If I had kids, I would decline a balcony.

Wow..  Safety first?  I don't think so!

The bar was great down in the lobby.  The bartenders were awesome and frequently joined in the conversation without feeling like they were intruding.

The service in the restaurant (for breakfast) could have been a bit better.  The waiters and hosts seemed overwhelmed a bit (it was busy).  Thankfully I was on vacation so it didn't bother me, but a more impatient person may have been irritated.

Overall, this stay just goes along with what I expect out of Hilton now in mainland US.  Just an average hotel stay in an average room with barely an appreciation for my Diamond status.  As a Diamond level elite, I would expect a bit more appreciation for all the money I've thrown Hilton's way.  After a whole year of this kind of attitude, it makes sense to me to try someone different; hence my new 2013 elite pursuits (discussion coming soon).