Sheraton Grand Los Angeles

My friend and I were staying at the Downtown LA Sheraton as part of a large group participating in the Inaugural LA Rock 'N' Roll Half Marathon. We arrived at the hotel at about 1:30 pm, hoping for an early check-in, but more importantly hoping to arrange a late check-out the next day, as we were in the "back of the pack" and likely would not make it back before the 12 noon check-out.



The first person we encountered at the front desk was polite and tried to help get us a 1pm checkout; however because our room was not ready yet, she could not make the change on the computer and suggested we come back at 3 and try again.



The next person we encountered was, in a word, horrid. She explained, rather rudely, that all hotels have a standard 3pm check in and 12 pm check out.



Um, really?



And then she had the nerve to tell us "Well, your room isn't ready anyway, so you'll have to come back later." So it's OK for us to have our check-in delayed, but we couldn't check out late? Go figure.



Furious but determined to make the best of our race weekend, my friend and I headed out to find a late lunch. Upon returning to the desk, we encountered yet another staff member at the desk - Gustave - and explained our situation again. At first he was concerned that there were no double rooms available - a pity because our accommodation arrangements had been made months in advance.



At that point we were about to completely loose it, but Gustave saved the day. He made sure that we had the best accommodations available and granted our late checkout request, allowing us to completely enjoy our race day getaway.



Our room was comfortable and clean, the beds slept well, and though short, we had a good overnight stay. I'd honestly have to say that while the hotel website boasts of a recent remodel, the room wasn't as nice as other hotels I've visited. However, because of the exemplary service we received, I had to throw in another star for good measure.



Thank you Gustave for a wonderful stay!