Mixed Review of the Hilton Washington Dulles

I am not going to post a full-fledged review or even include pictures because it was just an airport hotel, after all, but after my stay at the Hilton Washington Dulles Airport hotel Thursday night, I have a few observations.

First, the bad. I had my choice of hotels and deliberately chose the Hilton because of my newly-minted Gold status. I must have just missed a shuttle, because I had to wait 40 minutes at the curb outside baggage claim in Washington Dulles. We get to the hotel and when it is my turn in line, I present my United voucher and ask the agent to add in my Hilton Gold number to the reservation. Rather snootily, he stated that benefits aren’t recognized on “third party” stays so he would be unable to.

I had not done my homework beforehand, so I did not argue. I do know that I had Hilton Gold status from 2007-2009 and always received room upgrades and lounge access on Priceline stays. But the rules could have changed (and perhaps someone can clarify them).

The room was quite drab and the nightstand lamp was burnt out, which was annoying, but it was an airport hotel and the bed was comfortable. There was also a new LG HD-TV which was appreciated.

The following morning, I inquired in the Old Ox Grille whether continental breakfast was complimentary for HHonors Gold members. The lady looked up my room number then directed me to a conference room where she said my breakfast was being served at. I walked over to the conference room (on the other side of the hotel) and simply saw a sign for an ADA-conference. Breakfast had been picked over anyway…

I hopped in the elevator and went up to the 5th floor where I found the Executive Lounge. My 1st floor room key actually said “Executive Floor” on it, but it did not work on the door. Some people were coming out of the lounge, so I went inside, planning to ask the concierge on duty whether I had access to the lounge or not. But there was no one there! So I had breakfast…

And it was a great breakfast–seasonal fruit, yogurt, cereal, pastries, bread, hot eggs, bacon, sausage, and potatoes. I may not have had access, but I will say they had a wonderful breakfast spread.

And then I checked out–or at least tried to. The problem was there was no at the front desk (and I waited five minutes), so I just left. Hope I don’t get a bill…

Short review, yes, but here’s the take away: standard airport hotel, standard rooms, comfortable beds, service could be a bit better, status not recognized when using an airline voucher, great breakfast in the lounge nonetheless.

I’ll probably go back to the Westin or Hyatt next time, but I was happy to give the Hilton a try and the breakfast made it worth it–I just wish I could figure out whether I should have had access to the lounge or not!