While I was stranded in Chicago due to a storm in NYC, Hotel Essex was nothing short of a sanctuary. As soon as I stepped In the doors, I felt At home and at ease, which is incredibly important after your flight is delayed an extra day.
Booking and check in were super easy & convenient — I was hanging out by The Bean and waiting to see if any of my other friends were delayed and/or were comped roomed by the airline. When no one was able to get a room, I booked through Priceline because I could just search the hotels near me. We had just finished staying at an incredible Air BNB apartment, so we were looking for something affordable, yet cute and convenient enough to not make us FEEL stranded in Chicago, Once I found the room at a decent price, I booked and was confirmed in a matter of seconds. I split the room with one of my girlfriends so it only came out to about $60 for the night.
At check in, I was greeted by the lovely smile of Martha who helped me pick my room. (Amber helped me later. Everyone was so nice.) I explained that my flight had been cancelled and that I might be sharing the room with 1 or 2 other people. After offering my enough Fiji water for all of us, Martha informed me that the room with two beds wouldn’t have the view I was looking for; the room overlooking the park would only have 1 bed. Because I was in a total mood & have some fancy friends, I chose the room with the view and couldn’t have been happier. Martha even called up to make sure I was happy with the room. What I loved about the service in this place is that they were always available if I needed them, but never overbearing.
The location was phenomenal. The view was spectacular and the room was almost all windows. Even the bathroom had windows looking over the park. & The mirror was bluetooth! We were able to walk to dinner in the center of the city that night. In the morning, I ordered room service from the cafe downstairs & the coffee was really good! They allowed me a late check out & I spent the morning working from home. I had an evening flight, so I went to get my nails done & the train was within walking distance.
I’m so grateful for my stay at the Essex Inn and would absolutely stay there again. I truly appreciate their hospitality because having your flight canceled is one of the most stressful situations. There is nothing greater than the combination of chic aesthetic and proper customer service.
EllaThought 