Something Could be Finer in Carolina
Written: Aug 03 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Location! Friendly service, good decorating scheme
Cons: staff lacks attention to detail, decor in rooms needs repair
The Bottom Line: This above average but not excellent historic building is in a fantastic location on UNC grounds, but staff lacks attention to detail.
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| ChristineDale's Full Review: Carolina Inn |
Amazing as it was that we got off the ground after a horrendous experience with our airline (that's another opinion waiting to happen), my sister and I were delighted to set foot at the Carolina Inn, where she was taking part in a Summer conference for pediatric neurology, and I was her companion, since her hubby couldn't get off from work.
At first glance, this hotel is charming, set among flowering shrubberies and ancient trees, it seems an oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of Chapel Hill. We were greeted at first glance by an impressive lobby, with sparkling chandeliers and obvious Southern touches in the monstrous fresh flower bouquets and quiet elegance of the decor. Because the hotel is operated by Doubletree, we were handed fresh baked cookies upon registration, a signature amenity.
Our awe stopped there. Behind the polished cherry woodwork and the friendly southern drawls, we found plenty of details not up to snuff.
Carolina Inn is a "AAA Four Star Hotel", which they proudly boast on every pamphlet, and even on the cocktail napkins. To my mind, a four star hotel is not about the big things - crystal, dining rooms, decor (and they have a decorator with beautiful taste, by the way). It is about the DETAILS. When I spend top dollar for a luxury hotel, I expect luxury.
OUR ROOM
Our room was much smaller than the one pictured on the website, having just enough rooms for the two queen beds, a small desk, chair and entertainment center/bureau. Both my sister and I immediately noticed wallpaper in very bad repair across one wall of the room. Wallpaper was also discolored in the bathroom.
While there were plenty of towels and pillows, the ironing board which was not designed for its hanger, the three foot high air vent which was badly installed and not concealed, and the discolored wallpaper left a question in my mind as to what AAA could mean by four stars.
Housekeeping did a pretty good job as far as cleanliness, but did not empty the ice bucket or even give us a clean liner until we requested one the next day. Also the turndown service was omitted the first night we arrived, done well the second, but on the third night only one bed was turned down, though two mints were left... lazy or forgetful? I don't know which adjective the "four star" hotel would use...
The decor and carpet were charming, but the closeness of the room kept us out and about to avoid feelings of claustrophobia. The amenities were fine, but the cable channel selection left much to be desired, the movies available for rent had long since been available at our local Blockbuster, and HBO had no sound for three days! Now, I understand little things like this happen, but in my three phone calls to the front desk (one each day) I was given no reason, no apology, no compensation. I was told they would call me as soon as the sound was working. I got no call.
And Since I'm Talking About the Front Desk...
Later, I was at the Front Desk and requested a bus schedule from the concierge. He had run out of them, but asked me to wait and he would download one off the internet for me. Fifteen minutes later and with an appointment to keep, I left sans schedule. I was never contacted to say he had gotten me one. He never stopped me as I passed by in the next few days to give me a schedule.
The Restaurant
Although we only ate in the restaurant once, the food was hot and varied, the service very good, and the ambiance comfortable. (Though I had to clean someone's half-used jelly jar from the table myself).
On the other hand, the room service selection was measly, with only four sandwiches or a salad at lunchtime, and only a few entrees at supper, with no choices of side dishes or desserts. We were very disappointed in the limited menus.
The Grounds and Halls
The first two days of our visit (Saturday and Sunday) we saw three weddings at the Carolina Inn. They seem to attract much business, and ceremonies can be held in their small gardens under white tents. The banquet halls are lovely, lit with myriad candelabras.
My sister was on a conference and was catered to with continental breakfast buffets, with cereal, muffins and juice and coffee. Soda and water were provided throughout. The conference rooms were bright and spacious, but otherwise not worth mentioning.
Location
The very best part about the Carolina Inn is its location. The main drag, East and West Franklin Street, is only three blocks away, and boasts an astonishing (30/40) number of restaurants, clubs, grills, sub shops, etc. The variety is excellent, from Greek, Persian, Chinese and Thai to Southwestern BBQ and beyond. You can find a good deal for any budget here.
Only two blocks away is the Ackland Art Museum, with its eclectic collection of European and Native Arts, 20th century collection, and special exhibits. I was lucky enough to witness Linda McCartney's Sixties, a collection of her photography which was stunning. Cost of admission is free.
Since the Carolina Inn is on the UNC campus, there are all kinds of activities in walking distance, including the University theater and the Morehead Planetarium. Prices are reasonable.
So for shopping, cuisine and the arts, the Carolina Inn is perfectly situated - just wear good walking shoes.
Overall
I would certainly stay at the Carolina Inn on my next trip to Chapel Hill, but more because of it location than the staff's attention to detail. It was clean enough and the service was friendly, if forgetful. I would recommend this to business travellers and couples, though I can imagine children would feel a bit cooped up if constantly told "not to touch" the lobby's fine china collection. It would be a great place to stay if you are a parent visiting your child on campus during the school year.
If I were AAA, this hotel would get 3 out of 4 stars from me, since it is very good in its class, but certainly not the very best.
For epinions, I will give it 3.5 to 4 stars out of 5.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
ChristineDale
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Member: Christine
Location: Warren, NJ
Reviews written: 51
Trusted by: 26 members
About Me:
God Bless America
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