W Hotel - 172 West Adams, Chicago IL

I am in Chicago (well, I'm leaving in about 2 hours) for an arbitration this week. I visited last year for a mediation, but I was only here for a couple of days.  This time, though, i stayed at a W Hotel (its on West Adams).  Last year I stayed at the Westin.

Admittedly, I try to stay at Sheraton properties only because I get points there and I am hoping it will net Bec and I a free trip to a decent destination (suggestions, please).

This hotel, though, is bizarre.  The room has an interesting theme.  Big flat screen TV, ports to hook your computer to TV, etc.  They have multiple outlets (which is normally a huge problem).  The bed is on a platform.  It also has a faux fur thing on it.  I am not sure how to describe it.  That is not the most bizarre thing about this hotel or room (best for last).

I checked in on Monday and when I walked into the lobby, it resembled a club more than a hotel.  The lobby has two disco balls that, at night, are bouncing light all over.  The lobby is two stories, near the ceiling, the hotel flashes a "color of the day".  the first day, purple reigned supreme.  The second day, neon pink.  the third yellow.  the fourth, an electric blue.  Unfortunately, I Will not be here tonight to find out the Friday color.

The elevators (something I have never noticed in hotels before), have 3D art in them.  they are good, but a little unnerving.  Further, the elevators contain a black light.  I've never seen that before in a hotel.

The best thing about this place is this.  As you sit at the desk, on the right, there are cubby holes where the hotel staff put various items for purchase (at outrageous prices).  $6.00 for a a 1/4 sleeve of Pringles??  When I asked if they had a vending machine to avoid such a ridiculous charge, I was told no, but there was a 7-11 near by.

In the holes, you would find, a W CD, Altoids ($5), pretzels, spicy mix, roasted cashews, m&ms, snickers, raw almonds, Oreos, FIJI water, and, drum roll please. ........................................................................................  AN INTIMACY KIT.  yes ladies and gentlemen, the hotel provides you with:

2 condoms,
2 towelettes
1 bottle of lubricating jelly

all of the very low price of $10.00.  Quite a hotel this place.  I hope everybody has a great day.

-- cp