Budget Brilliance
Monday, June 15, 2009 by Jason Oliver Nixon.
I love a good bargain, but a bargain backed with substance. Give me an inexpensive meal, but don’t give me a plate loaded up with carbohydrates at an all-you-can-eat buffet. Put out a simple roast chicken, and I’ll be your best friend.
It’s the same with hotels. Unless I am really looking for a spirit of place or a resort with all of the bells and whistles, my list of requirements are simple: free wireless, a lobby bar, simple-chic rooms, healthy snack options, and a gym (if there’s a pool, even better!).
Happily, I recently discovered the Aloft chain of hotels from Starwood, and I am in love.
Let’s see:
Cheap. Yes, these hotels are wonderful on the wallet.
Free wireless. Check.
Lobby bar. Check. (In fact, the bars are wonderfully groovy and super high-style.)
Spirit of place. Check.
Gym AND pool. Check.
Wonderfully chic yet simple rooms. Check and check.
I have checked in at Aloft outposts in both Chicago and Minneapolis, and they were both wonderful retreats with just what I needed in a hotel. Aloft hotels win my vote hands down.
And this jet setter is one tough customer.
Signing off.
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