Today, I left for Phoenix at 10 am from Philadelphia. Well, of course, my plane did not leave on time. But this was one of those times when I really didn't care because I did not have a connecting flight. In fact, my anxiety level never moved after I weighed in my luggage at 48.5 lbs!
The flight was a bit bumpy, but I find that most flights are now. Does this have anything to do with the Greenhouse Effect? Or is it that I'm getting older and more paranoid about flying...
After arriving, I was able to get my baggage and shuttle with no issues. Go figure. I don't think that has happened in a long time. In fact, I was the first one dropped off at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown. Yippie!
As I'm departing the van, the Bellman, Chris, comes over, introduces himself, takes my bags, directs me to the check in, and assures me that I bags will be delivered to my room. That was nice, although I didn't have any time to take out a tip for him. That I feel a bit guilty about.
I meander to the check in area where Jennifer kindly checks me in. She tells me that I have complimentary Internet in the room (that is how I am posting my blog). In addition, Jennifer tells me that if I "go green" with my usage of room amenities (no maid service) that they will slip a $5 voucher under my door each day in which I can use in their bar and restaurant. Way to go! Of course, I sign up after I make sure that I can still get clean towels when I need them. Yes, she says. In fact, we will bring more coffee, tea, shampoo, or whatever you need. Can this transfer to my home life when I return to Bethlehem???
So now I go to the bank of elevators to find my way up to Room 2136. I have already been told by Jennifer that the fitness facility, pool, and hot tub are on Floor 4. Hmmm, I wonder. Do I have time for a dip before I need to meet everyone at 5:30 pm? It is now 2:30 Western time (is that right--I don't think so), but I may be able to sneak in a toe dip and a 20 minute sunbathe.
I get to my room, and Wow! I find luxury abounds. I have a king-size bed for just me...this is my dream come true. Now, you all know that just because the place is upper-crust doesn't mean that I didn't check for bedbugs. Also, check out the vanity. Now, why can't all hotels have this kind of vanity in the bathroom?
Within minutes of entering my room, I receive a phone call from the Bell Desk letting me know that my luggage is on the way up. Scott arrives with my bags in tow, and I have $2 for his tip. But wait...Scott proceeds to tell me about the amenities in my room (hair dryer, iron, ironing board, refrigerator, air conditioning, etc.) and then asks me if I would like him to get me some ice from the vending machine. Yes, people this is luxury. Of course, I said yes, and while he was gone, I switched the $2 in my hand for a $5. Scott came back with the ice, and finished his talk by going over the emergency exits with me. Really? I don't think I have ever had ANY hotel
At this point, it is now 3:00, and I need to get a bit organized with my "stuff" for the next 12 days. Signing off for now. I'll post more later.
The flight was a bit bumpy, but I find that most flights are now. Does this have anything to do with the Greenhouse Effect? Or is it that I'm getting older and more paranoid about flying...
After arriving, I was able to get my baggage and shuttle with no issues. Go figure. I don't think that has happened in a long time. In fact, I was the first one dropped off at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown. Yippie!
As I'm departing the van, the Bellman, Chris, comes over, introduces himself, takes my bags, directs me to the check in, and assures me that I bags will be delivered to my room. That was nice, although I didn't have any time to take out a tip for him. That I feel a bit guilty about.
I meander to the check in area where Jennifer kindly checks me in. She tells me that I have complimentary Internet in the room (that is how I am posting my blog). In addition, Jennifer tells me that if I "go green" with my usage of room amenities (no maid service) that they will slip a $5 voucher under my door each day in which I can use in their bar and restaurant. Way to go! Of course, I sign up after I make sure that I can still get clean towels when I need them. Yes, she says. In fact, we will bring more coffee, tea, shampoo, or whatever you need. Can this transfer to my home life when I return to Bethlehem???
So now I go to the bank of elevators to find my way up to Room 2136. I have already been told by Jennifer that the fitness facility, pool, and hot tub are on Floor 4. Hmmm, I wonder. Do I have time for a dip before I need to meet everyone at 5:30 pm? It is now 2:30 Western time (is that right--I don't think so), but I may be able to sneak in a toe dip and a 20 minute sunbathe.
I get to my room, and Wow! I find luxury abounds. I have a king-size bed for just me...this is my dream come true. Now, you all know that just because the place is upper-crust doesn't mean that I didn't check for bedbugs. Also, check out the vanity. Now, why can't all hotels have this kind of vanity in the bathroom?
Within minutes of entering my room, I receive a phone call from the Bell Desk letting me know that my luggage is on the way up. Scott arrives with my bags in tow, and I have $2 for his tip. But wait...Scott proceeds to tell me about the amenities in my room (hair dryer, iron, ironing board, refrigerator, air conditioning, etc.) and then asks me if I would like him to get me some ice from the vending machine. Yes, people this is luxury. Of course, I said yes, and while he was gone, I switched the $2 in my hand for a $5. Scott came back with the ice, and finished his talk by going over the emergency exits with me. Really? I don't think I have ever had ANY hotel
At this point, it is now 3:00, and I need to get a bit organized with my "stuff" for the next 12 days. Signing off for now. I'll post more later.