The Westin Alexandria Old Town

“A Genuinely Accessible Hotel—Ask for Raul Canelas or Noel Cornista”

I felt compelled to leave this review because of how the Westin Old Town Alexandria exceeded expectations on accessibility. When I first called the head of check-in, they said they couldn't provide a wheelchair accessible shower room. But by the time I arrived, they had secured one—and what a diffe… more

I felt compelled to leave this review because of how the Westin Old Town Alexandria exceeded expectations on accessibility. When I first called the head of check-in, they said they couldn't provide a wheelchair accessible shower room. But by the time I arrived, they had secured one—and what a difference that made. For wheelchair users and people with disabilities: This hotel delivers. The accessible bathroom is one of the most thoughtfully designed I've experienced. The roll-in shower has no lip, appropriate slope to prevent flooding, and is genuinely easy to access. The light switches, mirrors, sink, and soap/shampoo/conditioner dispensers are all at accessible heights. There's a sturdy, height-adjustable fold-down bench seat in the shower, properly placed grab bars, and an emergency phone in the bathroom itself. These aren't afterthoughts—they're intentional, quality accommodations. About the floors: The lobby and main areas have beautiful hard flooring that's smooth and easy to roll on. The exterior sidewalks in this neighborhood are all brick, but the brick is rather smooth and did not present as much of a difficulty as I thought it might. The curb cuts are also very nice and safe. However, be aware that the hallway carpets are thick and difficult to push a manual wheelchair over, so you may want to plan routes or be prepared to ask staff for assistance with that transition. Every room ending in 42 on each floor has one of these accessible showers. There are additional rooms on each floor that have accessible bathtubs. But with six floors that's six chances to have an accessible shower in one hotel! That's pretty exciting to me. Special recognition to Night Auditor, Raul Canelas and Manager, Noel Cornista: These two staff members went above and beyond. They sent me photos of the possible room ahead of time with measurements and layout details so I could assess accessibility myself before booking. That kind of proactive communication and respect for my judgment made a real difference. They also helped me navigate independently to investigate the accessibility of the gym when I struggled to hold the key card in the elevator myself. If you have a disability and are considering this hotel, confirm the accessible room is available and specifically ask for Raul (nighttime) or Noel. They will take care of you.

less

“A++”

Was in town with my family for a conference. Raul made sure we had the best stay. The staff was friendly and helpful, the room was immaculate, and the accommodations were fantastic.

“Stayed five nights for a conference”

I got to this hotel very early due to my flight being changed. I was able to sit and rest in the lobby. There is comfortable seating there. They got me a room by 11 a.m. That was very good. My room had a double bed. The room had an iron and an ironing board. I used those. The bathroom had a hair dr… more

I got to this hotel very early due to my flight being changed. I was able to sit and rest in the lobby. There is comfortable seating there. They got me a room by 11 a.m. That was very good. My room had a double bed. The room had an iron and an ironing board. I used those. The bathroom had a hair dryer and a magnifying mirror. The tub had a wand and rain shower head. My sink stopper didn't work. There was a robe but no slippers. The room also had a safe, but it wasn't working. I reported the safe and sink stopper at the front desk when I went out for dinner. The bed and room were comfortable. There is a desk with a lamp and a cabinet with shelving and drawers. There was one luggage rack. My room overlooked the front entryway. There were darkening drapes and a shade. There was a stand between the beds with electrical outlets and a clock and phone. On the second day I called the front desk to ask again that the safe and sink be fixed and reported that my refrigerator was being very noisy. I asked that it be fixed or unplugged. I attempted to unplug it but couldn't reach it. The sink was fixed by the time I got back to my room that evening. The safe and refrigerator never got fixed. I reported that in my email survey after my stay. I used the valet desk to order a cab. They were helpful. I used the restaurant and bar in the hotel. (see that separate review)

less

“5-Star Building 3-Star Service”

A hotel rating is more than just the facility. Other factors include the amenities, location, & the service that’s provided. Westin Old Town is a very nice facility … beautiful & spacious entrance with nice & clean rooms. Great location as well. I’ll give it 5-Stars! What I didn’t like was the serv… more

A hotel rating is more than just the facility. Other factors include the amenities, location, & the service that’s provided. Westin Old Town is a very nice facility … beautiful & spacious entrance with nice & clean rooms. Great location as well. I’ll give it 5-Stars! What I didn’t like was the service. I was driving an oversized vehicle & was given a permit & directions where to park. I saw another vehicle parked alongside the hotel. So, I asked the clerk about other parking options. She proceeded to ask for assistance. A gentleman walked out from another room (maybe the manager) & said in a snide kind of way, “Didn’t so & so give you a piece of paper directing you where to park?” Yes. He then proceeds to walk back to his cave. So, I drove a mile or two away to their designated parking. I ATTEMPTED to Uber back to the hotel but was unable to because the Uber app didn’t allow me to “pinpoint” my location because I was on private property. The Uber app tried to “pinpoint” me to a location 1/8 to a 1/4 mile or so away from where I was parked. So, I called the hotel & asked them how I was suppose to get back. “Oh, we’ll send our shuttle to pick you up.” NOT ONE PERSON MENTIONED TO ME THAT THE HOTEL HAD A DEDICATED SHUTTLE SERVICE … not the clerk & not even the manager when I asked about where to park. I’m thinking to myself … how difficult is it to say, “We can’t accommodate your vehicle. So, we’re going to send you a mile or two away to park. And as a courtesy, WE’LL PICK YOU UP & BRING YOU BACK.” I think it’s pertinent information. But I guess they didn’t think so. BTW, the shuttle driver was super nice. Would I return? Absolutely. Do I recommend? Absolutely. Just work on your customer service.

less