Transiting through Jeddah on my way to Afghanistan, I had about 23 hours in Saudi Arabia between Saudia flights. A transit visa had been granted by the Saudi Embassy in Washington, DC and without even looking at other properties, I reserved a room at the Park Hyatt Jeddah.

This isn't the proper venue to delve into Saudi Arabian culture and politics, but let me first say Saudi Arabia was not what I expected. Admittedly, Jeddah is by all accounts a ...

Much has changed since my last vacation to Istanbul. Five years earlier, I journeyed to the crossroads of east and west for the first time with my younger brother. We had a great time, though our accommodation—a small hostel in the Sultanahmet district—left much to be desired. After flying through Istanbul several times on Turkish Airlines in the interim, this was my first time actually being stamped back into Turkey ...

After our stay at the Sheraton Maui, we made our way to the airport for the quick flight to Kauai.  We had 5 nights on the island, and ultimately decided to split our time between the Grand Hyatt on the south side and the St. Regis in Princeville. 

Our one previous stay on Kauai was at the Marriott near the Lihue airport.  We knew we wanted to spend some time on the north shore, but since the St. Regis Princeville is pretty pricey, and I didn't want to ...

Despite the fact that I live less than 100 miles from O'Hare, I do occasionally stay in hotels near there, in the case of a very early flight or irregular operations.

I've had a few stays at the rather unique looking Hyatt Regency O'Hare recently.  In both cases I was upgraded to a Parlor Suite, which is located in the Executive building.  The hotel is a large convention center, that can lead to impersonal service, but my experiences at this property ...

On a recent visit to New York City, I was left with a bit of a challege to determine where to stay. Hyatt has five properties scattered through the city, with another one opening later this year.

Although the Andaz properties were enticing (I'll have a report on the Andaz 5th Ave shortly), the 48 Lex won out. Featuring 116 rooms at corner of 48th and Lexington, the 48 Lex is billed as a boutique hotel, and is different than any Hyatt Regency or Grand Hyatt you'll stay at.

Upon ...

I have discussed my aversion to Portico White Ginger bathroom amenities that used to be the standard at most Hyatt and Hyatt Place hotels.  As mentioned in my previous post, Hyatt has moved on to new brands, although the Portico may still be offered until stock is depleted.  Here is the new offering at many Hyatt properties, KenetMD

Yes, this is another post about hotel shampoo.  I never thought I would write about this once, let alone twice, but thanks to ...