ROCHESTER, MN: Homewood Suites

I spent about two weeks at this Homewood Suites and, as the name implies, really came to feel quite at home.

Staff is wonderful. They get to know their guests quickly and take the time to make you feel valued. That type of personal touch can make even a mediocre property seem nicer, and at a place as nice as this one, it’s even better.

The suites are huge! Mine was literally 500 square feet, which is 100 square feet bigger than the last studio apartment I lived in. It was well laid out, with the bathroom separating the sleeping and living areas, and the work station in the narrow spot off the bath.

Sitting area with work station off the bath

The suites have two flat-screen TVs (one with a DVD player), an iron and ironing board, Neutrogena amenities in the baths, and kitchenette complete with two-burner stoves, microwaves, pots and pans, and dishware. There’s a dishwasher, with dishwasher soap and liquid soap provided, and a full-size fridge and freezer.

Almost a full kitchen (minus an oven)

The hotel has a pool and whirlpool, a well-equipped fitness center, an outdoor dining area with two gas grills, and a sport court. It also boasts a business center, included breakfast every morning, and manager’s reception Mondays through Thursdays.

Bed/sleeping area

It’s close to the Mayo Clinic, so there are lots of guests with relatives either in the hospital or getting outpatient care, but there are also plenty of business travelers and vacationers as well. Generally a good mix, and whether it’s because it’s the Midwest or some other reason, the guests actually seemed to interact with each other.

BBQs in the back

The property is close to several fast-food joints as well as independent restaurants. A full-service grocery for those staying more than a couple of nights is only about a half-mile away. The property is convenient to a major highway and only about a mile from the heart of the downtown area and the restaurants it has to offer.

Parking in the on-site garage is a modest $11 a night with in-and-out privileges.

About the only downside was that the meals get a bit predictable for those on extended stays, and the rooms lack safes, which I prefer for my traveling electronics. Lacking one, I have to cart them everywhere I go, which gets a little tedious.

All in all, I’d recommend this hotel without hesitation whether you’re in Rochester for a night or two, or longer.

Visit my main page at TheTravelPro.us for more news, reviews, and personal observations on the world of upmarket travel.



Photos by Carl Dombek
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