By Nellie Day
Renaissance Long Beach Hotel Review
The Renaissance is a 388-room hotel in the heart of Downtown Long
beach. Being part of the Marriott family, the Renaissance is large enough that it contains multiple restaurants, a fitness center and plenty of guest services, including an evening turn-down service, foreign currency exchange, 24-hour room service and a knowledgeable concierge.
Wows and Woes
Wows: It arguably has the best location in the city. Great views and convenient access to area attractions.
Woes: It's sterile and pricey, without much of a personality.
Insider Tips
Use this as your home base but don't spend too much time there. Aside from the great views of the city, Queen Mary and ocean, the Renaissance doesn't offer much. Instead, use its location to your advantage and explore the city by foot, particularly Pine Avenue, which houses numerous restaurants, bars, entertainment venues and ice cream shops. The back of the Renaissance faces Pine, and these establishments are just steps from the hotel's doors.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
I stayed at the Renaissance a few years ago during a press tour and loved the room, particularly the postcard-perfect view I had of the Queen Mary and Long Beach harbor. I could sit there for hours staring out that window. When I wasn't doing that I wasn't inside the Renaissance. I was touring the city and all of its unique establishments. Overall it was a very positive experience.
Bottom Line
Its convenient location makes it perfect for business and leisure travelers alike, who won't need a car or possibly even a cab during their stay.
About the Author:
Nellie Day is a freelance writer based out of Hermosa Beach, CA. She has her Master's degree in broadcast journalism from USC, and Bachelors' degrees in English and sociology from UC Irvine. Ms. Day's work can regularly be seen on newsstands, where her specialties include weddings, pets, real estate, electronics, product reviews, business, architecture and design, Southern California, food and wine, and travel and tourism.
Photo Credits:
commons.wikimedia.org
