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Why Staying in Hampton Inn Sedona Isn’t Appealing

Hotel Dining Room

Not Worth the Price 

Dear Polite Travelers,

Hampton Inn by Hilton is not known for luxury.  But at Sedona’s exorbitant hotel rates, one would expect a tad more than this hotel offers.  Perhaps real glasses and ceramic coffee mugs??  At least the rooms were well-appointed.  Somewhat, anyway. 

The Room Below The Parking Lot

Since the hotel is located directly on Highway 89A, I asked for a quiet room instead of the second-floor room with a highway view they had reserved for us.  Upon first look, it appears clean, updated, but simple.  Once we settled in, we found it was indeed clean, with the standard microwave, flatscreen television, coffee maker, and fridge.  But the place needs some maintenance.  The tub has been painted and is peeling, and the toilet makes noise all night. 

For the most part, it is comfortable and has adequate free Internet.  The worst part of this room—and the entire first floor—is it is roughly four feet under the parking lot.  Yep.  Under the parking lot. 

If I squint and look sideways just right, our view might be considered a courtyard.  That’s if we’re being extremely generous.  Basically, it is a small rectangle of inaccessible rough hardscape with one plant, inside a box framed by tall concrete walls looking up to the parking lot.  Really?  Who does that?!    



Okay, That’s Not Great, But What About the Remainder of the Hotel?

The lobby, although small, is typical with tables, seating areas, and a breakfast area. It felt clean and comfortable. 

Although too cold to swim, the pool was a nice size with some outdoor seating and a small hot tub.  Included is the ubiquitous gym.  There isn’t much to see here.  There are a few machines, but no free weights. 

The Saving Grace

What made this visit was the staff.  Each one was gracious and kind, especially Amy.  When we needed to shorten our stay, partly because Sedona is filled to the brim with people—EVERYWHERE—and partly because I felt overwhelming fatigue, Amy empathized as if we were family.  Thus, she took care of the particulars on the spot.  Hugs were also exchanged.  (Watch)

Will We Return?

Nope.  Not a chance.  It’s too expensive, too noisy, and one must drive to get around.  We love to walk, and this place doesn’t offer the opportunity, especially since it is right on the highway.  Plus, the trails were full of tourists, so that option was unavailable as well.   

Until next time...happy travels, my polite travelers.

Hampton Inn Sedona, AZ

1800 W. Highway 89A, Sedona, Arizona 

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