Sheraton Red Deer.

[drron]

This place is close to midway betwenn Edmonton and Calgary.We picked it because we wanted to go through Drumheller.It was expensive the night we stayed at $160 when most nights it can be had for ~ $90.We soon realised why when we arrived-lots of Pro cycling teams with support vehichles outside.We had run into the tour D'alberta being run run for the first time.When we went down for dinner this was outside-

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The BMC team were on our floor and across the hall was Cadel Evans.At checkout this created a bit of a laugh with the hotel staff assuming we were Cadel's parents.
Once again SPG came through and we were upgraded to a Jacuuzi suite.And I do mean a Jacuzzi!With it's own TV-

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The room was spacious-

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And had a normal bathroom as well again with adequate lighting-

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It had an executive lounge with a satisfactory brekkie.The evening snacks were as usual for North America but unusually the beer,wine and basic spirits were complimentary.We enjoyed the stay and can thoroughly recommend the place especially at the rates when a special event isn't on.

 

[boomy]

Nice report and pics. The room you were upgraded to looks great. You have to appreciate the cheap rates in this part of the world. Here in Oz 160$ won't get you much at any of the Sheraton properties.

You mentioned that the alcohol at the executive lounge was unusually complementary. Are you saying that other hotels in North America actually charge for drinks in the lounge?!

 

[markis10]

You mentioned that the alcohol at the executive lounge was unusually complementary. Are you saying that other hotels in North America actually charge for drinks in the lounge?!

Just like airline lounges in North America, drinks are paid for in most of the hotel lounges, something I suspect is to do with the tipping culture, the thought being you are more likely to tip when paying versus a freebie, and it obviously helps the hotels bottom line.

 

[boomy]

Just like airline lounges in North America, drinks are paid for in most of the hotel lounges, something I suspect is to do with the tipping culture, the thought being you are more likely to tip when paying versus a freebie, and it obviously helps the ones bottom line.

Interesting way of squeezing more $$ from customers. I guess they don't do that at high end hotels. I remember when staying at Hilton NY the alcohol was free, and quite good as well.

 

[markis10]

Interesting way of squeezing more $$ from customers. I guess they don't do that at high end hotels. I remember when staying at Hilton NY the alcohol was free, and quite good as well.

Perhaps, first time I came across it was at Anaheim Hilton and Marriott Hotels.

 

[drron]

They do indeed charge at high end hotels.For example at the Fairmont Banff a glass of wine was $14.
Waldorf Astoria NYC.When HH diamonds were given lounge access they then closed their lounge at 1300 so no drinks.
So finding a North american property with complimentary alcohol is a real bonus.

 

[mrs.dr.ron]

I just want to add that the jacuzzi was very difficult to get into and even more so getting out when you are wet !