I’m writing this from the convenience of room at the Westin River North in Chicago.  Sportscenter is on the TV, Pink Floyd’s The Wall is playing on the iPhone, and I’m wearing a very comfortable robe.  That last part is probably too much information.

I’ve stayed at some pretty awesome hotels. My head has hit the pillows of the Ritz Carlton in St. Thomas, St. Martins Lane in London, The Drake Hotel, The 4 Seasons in St. Louis, and the list goes on and on. They all claim, on some level, to offer you an amazing guest experience. While I’ve left satisfied, I’ve never left saying, “wow that was an amazing experience.”

Until now that is.  I checked into the Westin River North in Chicago yesterday evening.

As I approached the door to the hotel the doorman greeted with a roaring and jovial “Good evening, welcome to the Westin.” In doing so he also held the door open for me. So right off the bat, the first impression was awesome. From there, I went to the hotel registration desk and the woman checking me in greeted me with a smile and as she was checking me asked me, “sir, would you like a complimentary upgrade? it includes an upgraded room, access to the club level, free breakfast, and free drinks at night.” Ummm, let me see….YES! Of Course!

Ok, I waked into the room and was greeted with a larger than normal space that included a slick LG LCD tv, an iMac (already plugged in to the internet), the clock had a built in dock for my iPhone, and the room set to a comfortable 67 degrees. The heavenly bed and heavenly shower lived up to and exceeded my expectations.

The next morning I took them up on their offer for a complimentary breakfast. It wasn’t a hot breakfast, but very good none the less. Fresh OJ, granola, fruit, pastries, and an awesome meat and cheese plate were options. I took the elevator down and on my way out 3 members of the hotel staff offered me a “good morning” and the doorman asked me if I needed a cab. I didn’t, but it was nice of him to ask.

This evening, I had the same experience. Doorman greeted me good evening. A few members of the hotel staff said hello. Oh, and the business center actually worked. I was able to print my boarding pass for no cost. Pretty cool? But, it gets better.

When I got back to my room the TV was on and set to ESPN (nice touch) and there were two chocolates waiting for me on my pillow. Bravo!

I haven’t checked out yet. But, I’m assuming I’ll get the same treatment tomorrow and the doorman will hail me a cab to the airport. I’ve got to say that this is the best overall hotel experience I’ve ever had. Nice job Westin.