Darrin W
June 20, 2024
As a loyal frequent Marriott visitor, I stay at Marriott all over North America and anywhere else. While I rarely have a negative experience, I also rarely have an experience that stands out as amazing service. Only such stays prompt me to leave a review. My stay at Atlanta Perimeter Center proved to be one of those absolutely amazing stays. It started out a bit ... On the edgy side. Upon check-in, I was given my room. A bit to my dismay, I was assigned to a room on the 3rd floor. My account preferences clearly state that I prefer a high floor. And given my Titanium Elite status, I have some "expectation" that will be provided. However, I didn't dispute the 3rd floor accommodation. As I was walking down the hall to my room, it became clear there was a flood on the floor, with ripped up carpet and air dryers in a couple rooms. As I walked past, I noticed the guest that had checked in before me walking back towards the elevator with her luggage in tow. I thought to myself, "that's not a good sign". Sure enough, as I rounded the hallway corner, I realized why. To get to my assigned room I would have to go around an entry that was blocked off. Stepping over plastic drapes. As the guest before me, I turned around and returned to the front desk. Without argument, they assigned a new room. This time on the ninth floor. Higher, better (though still really only half way with 17 floors). Upon entry to the new room, I was fronted with two queen beds. Hmmm, I double checked my reservation. Yup, I did book a room with a King bed. OK, I get there is a shortage of rooms with the flood and clearly guests are not happy being out on the third floor. So despite my disappointment, I'll accept it. I left my bags and went to the bar for a drink. After a few minutes, I decided to go back to the front desk and just check on what's available. I didn't want to be "That Guy". But I've stayed in Marriott hotels 60 nights already this year. Why are my preferences not being respected? I politely asked the front desk if there was a King room available. Again, they reviewed rooms and without making me feel bad for asking, reassigned me. Across the hall from where I was but this time with a King. I only detail this because they handled it with professionalism and I think that should be recognized. BUT, where the amazing experience occurred is the bar. And the M Lounge. Service was fantastic! Friendly staff, bending over backwards to help. In particular the bartender Ayana (sp?). From day one to day three, she went out of her way to know my name and ensure that she used it every opportunity she could. Never letting my drink get empty unless it was by choice. No matter how busy she was, she never let anyone feel unattended to, nor show any sign of stress. I watched her with every guest at the bar. Learning their stories and using it to engage discussion at every opportunity. Knowing their (and my) name the following night and as well the drink of choice. Servers like