HOTEL MONACO ALEXANDRIA - A KIMPTON HOTEL

"An Absolute Delight!"

Once again the Monaco in Alexandria has delivered the outstanding, high-quality service that Kimpton is famous for. From the warm greeting at check-in to our music filled room with surprise wine and cheese plate - it was an absolutely perfect stay! We were upgraded at check-in and given a room with a lovely balcony seating area overlooking a charming courtyard. And the best feature of the room - the amazing Fuji Soaking tub complete with bath salts! What a delightful room and incredibly relaxing stay :) Every staff member we encountered was full of smiles. The wine reception was an entertaining start to the evening. The BBQ Salmon we ordered from room service from Jackson 20 was delicious, if a little pricey (but that's just part of room service, isn't it'). The Monaco is terrific for 4-legged guests, too! This was my first time travelling with a pet and it was a great experience. They gave us a treat bag for our pup at check-in and showered her with more every time we came through the lobby. The staff were able to recommend dog friendly restaurants, even though it was winter, and provided us with extra doggie bags when I forgot mine upstairs. I truly can't thank the staff enough for all the little touches that made the stay so enjoyable. I have high expectations when it comes to Kimptons, and the Monaco managed to surpass them this weekend! I will definitely be returning!

"Great Location"

My husband and I stayed one night at the Monaco in October before taking the Auto Train out of Lorton the next day. Brad at check-in was very helpful with restaurant suggestions. The staff we encountered were all very friendly. Valet overnight parking cost $27. The wine hour from 5-6 in the lobby area was a nice touch. From the hotel it is an easy walk to the waterfront, or you can take the free trolley which runs along King Street. There are lots of restaurants and shops in the area. The room was comfortable and very clean. The only chair for TV watching was a desk chair. The bathroom showed signs of needing updating. For example, the tub faucet was loose when pulling to activate the shower, and a knob was missing off the vanity. Not major complaints but noticed. There was only one soap which we moved between the sink and the shower--should have requested a second but did not for only one night. The room temperature was difficult to maintain--it was cool when the blower was on but when not the room became warm. Coffee and tea service was available in the morning in the lobby as well as room service. The Jackson 20 restaurant is attached to the hotel for breakfast and other meals. For our first visit to Alexandria, this was a good choice.

"A Good Night's Sleep"

I wasn't sure what to make of this hotel when we arrived. Our first hour in the hotel was not stellar. There is an indent at the curb in front for the convenience of unloading. There are several luggage carts by the front door. There is staff to help if you are so inclined. They will valet park your car for no additional charge beyond the regular $30 a day (which seems ridiculous, but is necessary as there is no good street parking). Our reservation was for a king room. Upon arriving in our room on the 6th floor (top floor) we found a room with a king size headboard, but only a queen size bed. Odd. We called down to the front desk and we were told that it was a king size room. "It may be a king size room but it is only a queen size bed." The front desk person came upstairs to investigate and gave us keys to a different room on the same floor with an actual king size bed. The room is lovely, well appointed, clean. The bedding is nice quality and the pillow plump and feathery. There is a serious draft through the window and the window treatment is a little askew, but the heating system is efficient as needed. The bathroom is large and with nice amenities. Surprisingly the hairdryer is old and heavy and dirty (you know how the filter gets all caked with dust'). Also surprising is that there is not a coffee maker in every room, but a sign that says that if you would like a coffee maker, they will supply one. So at 9am when we realized there was no coffee maker, we called down to the front desk to request one. By 9:30 when one hadn't shown up we called down to remind them. By 9:50 one showed up at our door. There is no brochure describing the amenities of the hotel, so I have no idea if there is a pool or a gym, or any other services. They are actively trying to update the decor. This morning they were replacing all the light fixtures in the hallway. So in someway it feels like a fancy hotel and in some ways it falls short. But I slept well and that is what really matters. The Metro is a 20 minute walk away, but the hotel is perfect for walking all over Old Town. There is a free trolley that runs up and down King Street. Kimpton was recently bought by IHG, so you can get your hotel points there.

"New Years in Alexandria"

Overall our experience was great. Upon check in we were greeted by a gentlemen who was courteous but did not offer any suggestions such as how breakfast worked, the fact there was a happy hour, anything about the Wifi, etc. Later that day we spoke to another person who was terrific, offering many tips about the hotel and the area. Our room was bright and spacious, and the bed was very comfortable. We knew this was a dog friendly hotel, and even though we don't have one, we like dogs. We heard barking in other rooms on a few occasions but when we called the front desk, it was handled quickly. The Monaco is in an amazing location right in Old Town close to all the restaurants and shops. First Night Alexandria was fun and I highly recommend it. We had a great time, largely due to our experience at the Monaco.

"Happy New Year"

OK - I didn't book the room until late - so I wound up with a premium room. It was very nice - but more expensive than I would have liked. The location of the hotel is fantastic. Right in the heart of Old Town. Old Town has a great New Year's Eve celebration - so I was staying here to avoid driving when the crazies are out. Staff was extremely attentive and helpful. The place is just fun. I don't think you can be grumpy there. Nice surroundings, access to everything, friendly people. Going back again soon - hopefully for a little less money.