Residence Inn Alexandria Old Town South at Carlyle

The water temperature on the 4th floor was totally unpredictable. Showers started hot, then without warning turned ice cold. I would hope this isn't a building-wide issue. As far as convenience, close to grocery and Metro, which is definitely a solid for traveling with an infant. Beware: $40/night parking fee!

Arriving late at night, we had to double-check the name of the hotel to ensure that we entered the correct Residence Inn as there are two not very far apart in Old Town Alexandria. This fifteen story, urban Marriott hotel is perched within a new 6.9 million square foot mixed-use development in the quiet Carlyle neighborhood. My sister, a frequent visitor in Alexandria, was impressed with the unfamiliar Old Town area, which caters to the businesses operating in Carlyle and is quieter than the King Street Mile and other busier sections in Old Town. If you are in search of accommodations that are off the beaten path located in a beautiful and well-maintained neighborhood, this may be your place. We encountered no issues during our less than 24-hour stay. Upon arrival, just after 10:30 PM (when the bar closes), we were happy to see that a variety of single-serving beverages are offered for sale in the lobby market. The hotel rooms could definitely use some TLC, but one's basic needs are met for short- or long-term stays. My sister and I slept overnight in a 1-bedroom suite, which gave us each our own room. The furniture is bulkier than it needs to be because, once the sofa bed is extended, there is little room to move around. With slimmer furnishings, the design of the suite could be more streamlined and navigable. Investing in high-quality sleep sofas that comfortably accommodate two people could improve the guest experience. In the morning, we fueled up at the complimentary breakfast, which got our day off to a great start. With full stomachs, we walked the 1.7 miles to the waterfront. Marriott team members were accommodating, although we did not require much additional attention during our visit. We did store our bags for a few hours after checking out before catching an Amtrak Train and a Metro at Old Town's nearby transportation hub on King Street. I trust my sister with decades of experience visiting in and around Alexandria who is eager to return to the Residence Inn Alexandria Old Town South at Carlyle, situated in a safe and pristine Old Town neighborhood.

Very clean and comfortable. Surprised there was no hair dryer or lotion, which is typically supplied in better hotels. I'm also very concerned about the $250 charge for something, which hopefully will be refunded as we left everything in perfect condition. We haven't traveled a lot in the US (more in Europe) in recent years, so hadn't encountered this charge. It made me hesitant about staying. Maybe frequent US travelers have encountered this. The complimentary breakfast was very good.

Good breakfast. Easy walking distance to the Eisenhower Metro station, which goes to the airport in 10 minutes.

Excellent room, service, delicious breakfast