Burlington Getaway: Unbeatable Deals at the Best Western Plus!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving deep into the Burlington Getaway at the Best Western Plus! This ain't your grandma's hotel review, folks. We're going full-throttle honesty, warts and all, and hopefully, a few laughs along the way.
Let's get one thing straight: Burlington, Vermont, is gorgeous. And let's be real, finding a decent hotel that won't break the bank is a win. "Unbeatable Deals"? Hmm, we'll see about that. I've got a nose for a bargain, and I'm ready to sniff this place out.
Accessibility: The First Hurdle (and Hopefully, a Smooth One)
Okay, accessibility is a make or break for a lot of folks, and I'm glad to see it's listed. Important note: Always call ahead and confirm specific accessibility needs. The Best Western Plus is listed as having "Facilities for disabled guests", which is a good start. I hope this means easy access to the lobby, elevators going everywhere (none of that sneaky stairwell-is-the-only-way-up-to-the-pool nonsense), and rooms specifically designed for wheelchair users. More on this later from other guests, because I don't have the physical limitations to fully test this myself. The "Elevator" listing is a must-have, praise the heavens!
Cleanliness and Safety: In a Post-Pandemic World
This is THE BIG one in my book. Let's face it, we're all a little germ-ophobic these days. Burlington Getaway sounds promising on this front.
- Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas: Excellent.
- Hand sanitizer: Essential.
- Rooms sanitized between stays: Fantastic. I need to know I'm not sleeping in a petri dish.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: HUGE. Front-line staff are the first line of defense, and if they're nonchalant, you're off-put instantly.
The "Room sanitization opt-out available" is a nice touch. Some people prefer to live in their own mess, others want a perfectly sterile environment. Kudos for offering options. The "Cashless payment service" is a plus. Less fumbling with cash, more time spent relaxing…or stuffing your face.
Rooms: My Sanctuary…or My Temporary Home?
Alright, let's break down the rooms and the amenities offered. This is where a hotel can truly shine or fall flat.
- Wi-Fi [free] in all rooms!: Hallelujah! Can't live without a good internet connection. Streaming, work, keeping in touch… it's a lifeline.
- Air conditioning: Mandatory. Especially in Vermont summers and the ability to set my own temperature, is a must.
- Blackout curtains: A godsend for those who like a good sleep. A good night's rest is essential.
- Coffee/tea maker: Crucial. I need that caffeine hit first thing.
- In-room safe box: Okay, practical and useful for hiding your expensive jewelry from your traveling partner (kidding…mostly).
- Non-smoking: Bless. Nothing worse than walking into a room that reeks of stale smoke.
- Refrigerator: Awesome for stashing drinks and snacks.
- Wake-up service: Needed, though I'm more likely to set my phone alarm.
- Additional toilet - Excellent for a large family, but don't expect it in every room type.
Also you're getting an Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Carpeting, Closet, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Window that opens - All of these are great and pretty standard for a Best Western Plus.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Adventure
Okay, so I'm a foodie, and a hotel's dining options are a big deal. Let's see what we're working with here.
- Restaurants: Plural! Hopeful face. This implies CHOICE. Variety is the spice of life, and the spice of hotel stays.
- Breakfast [buffet]: Excited squeal. Buffet breakfast is a tradition, and a great way to kick off the day.
- Breakfast in room, Breakfast takeaway service: Good for lazy mornings, or if you're in a hurry.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop: Essential. See above (caffeine addiction).
- Happy hour, Poolside bar, Snack bar, Bar: Nice! These are the kind of things that bring a hotel to life. Afternoon cocktails by the pool? Yes, please.
- Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant, Soup in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, Room service [24-hour], A la carte in restaurant, Alternative meal arrangement, Buffet in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Salad in restaurant, Bottle of water, Essential condiments, Kids meal - The buffet, coffee shop, and bar really round this out.
Things to do in the hotel
Massage: Yes. Simply yes.
Pool with view: Double yes! A gorgeous pool is a major bonus.
Sauna, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Spa, Fitness center, Gym/fitness: Wow! A mini-wellness retreat? I can get on board with that.
Swimming pool [outdoor], Swimming pool: Now, I just REALLY hope that pool is open. The "Pool with a view" is a big selling point, if done right.
Foot bath, Body scrub, Body wrap: This is more than expected.
For the kids: Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal,
- This is a really important feature. It's great that the hotel catering to the whole family.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
These are the extras that can make a stay truly memorable.
- Concierge: Helpful for getting recommendations, navigating the area, and dealing with any issues.
- Cash withdrawal, Currency exchange: Useful for travelers.
- Contactless check-in/out: Nice and efficient.
- Convenience store: A lifesaver for snacks, toiletries, and forgotten essentials.
- Daily housekeeping, Laundry service, Dry cleaning, Ironing service: Gotta love a place that keeps you looking fresh.
- Facilities for disabled guests: Important for the hotel to provide good services.
- Front desk [24-hour]: Always a comfort knowing someone's there, day or night.
- Gift/souvenir shop: Tourist trap or treasure trove?
- Luggage storage: Useful for early arrivals or late departures.
- Meeting/banquet facilities, Business facilities, Indoor venue for special events, Outdoor venue for special events, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Projector/LED display, Seminars, Xerox/fax in business center:
- These items really open up the options for a myriad of different types of people.
- Car park [free of charge], Valet parking, Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, Airport transfer, Bicycle parking: Having so many car and transport options is wonderful. If you are looking to park your car, this is a great option.
- Smoking area: Helpful for folks who partake.
Getting Around: Location, Location, Location!
- Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site]: Hopefully parking isn't a nightmare. Free is always good!
- Taxi service, Airport transfer: Seamless transport options are a huge plus.
My Hypothetical Burlington Getaway Experience:
Okay, let's paint a picture. I arrive, buzzing with anticipation. Hopefully, the front desk is efficient, friendly, and not run down with a line. I zip up to my room, drop my bags, then immediately head for the pool. That view! I'm envisioning myself sprawled on a lounger, a cocktail in hand, soaking up the Vermont sunshine. Later, I'd hit the gym, then wind down with a massage. And the buffet breakfast? Oh, the breakfast buffet. Sign me up. With the free wi-fi, I'd be connected…but relaxed.
BUT…and there's always a but, isn't there?
Let's be real. Hotels aren't perfect. It could get noisy next door, the air conditioning might be a bit iffy, the
Budapest's Attila Hotel: Unforgettable Luxury Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! This isn't your perfectly-polished brochure itinerary. This is real travel – Best Western Plus Burlington Inn & Suites edition, with all the glorious, messy trimmings. Prepare for a rollercoaster… and maybe a few dropped French fries along the way.
The Burlington Blitz: A Whirlwind of (Mostly) Good Intentions
Day 1: Arrival & The Great Hotel Room Hunt (The First Battle)
- 1:00 PM: Landed in Toronto. Okay, smooth sailing. I'm practically a pro at this airport thing… until I hit the baggage claim. Spent a solid 45 minutes doing the luggage carousel shuffle. "Is that my slightly-too-big suitcase? Nope. Wait… is that… a family of six's entire wardrobe?" Finally retrieved mine, slightly battered but victorious.
- 2:30 PM: Got the rental car. It's a… silver sedan. Fine. Functional. I'm not picky… unless it smells like stale fast food. Thankfully, crisis averted. Drive to Burlington was surprisingly smooth (and scenic!).
- 3:30 PM: Check-in at the Best Western Plus Burlington Inn & Suites. Ah, the moment of truth. Room expectations are always high. Entered the lobby, the smell of the breakfast buffet lingering in the air (a good omen, maybe?) The front desk lady was… perky. A little too perky, if I'm honest. Makes me suspicious. Got the keys, went up, and…
- 3:45 PM: Room 312. Now, I'm not a high-maintenance person, but the view was… mostly the parking lot. Okay, minor gripe. The bed looked comfy. But then I noticed the… mystery stain on the carpet. Ugh. Time for a phone call. The ever-perky receptionist sounded genuinely apologetic, and said they would arrange a new room.
- 4:15 PM: Finally in Room 405. Better view, no obvious carpet anomalies. Success! I think I deserve a nap. (And maybe a stiff drink after that whole ordeal.)
- 5:30 PM: Forced myself out of comfortable place, I decided to go for a refreshing walk exploring the beauty of downtown Burlington. I find an amazing restaurant, a Greek restaurant, and I fell in love with the food.
Day 2: Niagara Falls: A Feast of Mist & Misadventures
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast at the Inn. The "free breakfast" buffet. Okay, the bacon was crispy. The coffee… was lukewarm. But I'm a glass-half-full person, so I focused on the positive.
- 9:00 AM: Hit the road. Niagara Falls, here I come! The drive was stunning, actually. Rolling hills, vineyards… felt like I was in a postcard.
- 10:30 AM: Niagara Falls! Wow. Just… wow. The sheer power of the water is overwhelming. That mist though! I was soaked within seconds. Took a million photos (because, obviously). Got a little too close to the edge… almost lost my hat.
- 12:00 PM: "Journey Behind the Falls." So, you descend like, way down into the rock. Pretty cool, actually. Very wet. Bring a poncho, people. Trust me. (I learned that the hard way. Freezing.)
- 1:30 PM: Lunch. The food truck situation near the falls was a delightful mess. Hot dogs, poutine, greasy goodness. Felt like a proper tourist.
- 2:30 PM: Whirlpool Aero Car. Okay, this was a little underwhelming, to be honest after the falls. But the views were still pretty. The car does swing over the rapids.
- 4:00 PM: The Boat tour. The boat tour was amazing. We got very close to the falls on this one. It was cold and we all got wet, but the falls were truly magnificent.
- 6:00 PM: The drive back to Burlington. Traffic was brutal. I was hangry.
- 7:30 PM: Dinner at a local pub. Burgers and beer to the rescue! Thank goodness. Feeling pretty good after.
Day 3: Burlington Exploration & the Quest for the Perfect Pastry
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast again at the Inn. I mastered the art of grabbing the fluffiest scrambled eggs. Feeling like a pro.
- 10:00 AM: Explored downtown Burlington. Really cute shops and cafes. Almost got lost on purpose.
- 11:00 AM: The Quest for the Perfect Pastry. This was serious business. Ducked into a bakery I'd heard about. The aroma… heavenly. Tried a croissant, a pain au chocolat, and a… questionable something with cream. (Regret that cream one. Too rich.)
- 12:00 PM: Lunch, the best decision I have made in years. I found one of the best restaurants in all of Burlington. It was a Lebanese Restaurant. I loved the food and also the service was great.
- 2:00 PM: Check Out from The Best Western Plus Burlington Inn & Suites.
Overall Thoughts (and Honest Admissions):
- Best Western Plus Burlington Inn & Suites: It was… fine. The staff were generally helpful. The room could have been cleaner, but hey, it served its purpose.
- Niagara Falls: Unforgettable. Truly a natural wonder. Be prepared to get wet!
- Burlington: A charming town. Definitely worth exploring.
- The Quest for the Perfect Pastry: Still ongoing.
- Me: Tired. Slightly sunburnt. Overly full of poutine. But happy.
The Bottom Line: This trip wasn't perfect. There were hiccups, questionable food choices, and moments where I just wanted to curl up in bed and watch TV. But that's okay. That's life. And that's what makes travel real. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Escape to Paradise: Comfort Hotel Narita – Your Japan Adventure Awaits!
Okay, so the deal... what's the *actual* deal? Seriously, what does "Burlington Getaway" even *mean*?
Okay, deep breaths. The deal... well, it involved a night (or in my case, two, because I overbooked...classic) at the Best Western Plus in Burlington. They tout it as "unbeatable." Unbeatable by what? I wondered. Price? Comfort? My own crippling indecisiveness when it comes to packing? And then it was some package, usually including things like a "complimentary* continental breakfast." *Complimentary* in that it was included in the price, not that they were running around offering free pancakes and hugs. (Though, the hug potential was a solid 4/10, more on that later). The core of it was a decent price for a room in Burlington. Seems pretty straightforward right? Wrong. This is where things start to... well, get interesting.
Did you, like, *enjoy* the Best Western Plus? Be honest!
Enjoy? Look, let's be real. It's a Best Western Plus. It's not the Ritz. It's not the Four Seasons. But it's not the Bates Motel either! I mean, the room was clean-ish, the bed was... there. The TV *kind of* worked (more on my TV troubles later). I'll tell you what, after a day of battling Burlington traffic (which, by the way, deserves its own whole separate FAQ), the fact that there was a bed at all was a major win. *Especially* after I’d wrestled the suitcase up that tiny, slightly unsettling elevator.
Speaking of rooms, what about the *room*? Did you get a good view?
The view? Oh, the *view*. I’m pretty sure I got the "view of the parking lot and a sliver of the highway" package. Look, I wasn't expecting the Eiffel Tower, okay?! But I did enjoy people-watching, the highlight being a guy aggressively trying to put his kayak on the roof of his minivan for a solid ten minutes... while wearing a Hawaiian shirt. Burlington is a bizarre place, y'all.
The breakfast... was it *really* continental? And what's the deal with the *coffee*?! This is vital.
Ah, *the breakfast*. Okay, so, yes, it was continental. Think: stale bagels, maybe a sad muffin or two, some sugary cereal that probably has more sugar than actual cereal, and a fruit salad that looked like it had been assembled hours ago in a dark room by someone who really, *really* didn’t care. I mean, there was yogurt, which was a plus. But the coffee. Oh, the coffee. It was... *thin*. Like, the kind of coffee that requires a triple shot of espresso just to *feel* awake. I’m a coffee snob, I admit it. This coffee made me want to cry. And I’m not even a crier! But I powered through, because a girl's gotta caffeinate. It fueled me for my kayaking adventure – yes, THE Kayak Guy.
You mentioned a "hug potential." What was *that* about?! And what about the *staff*?
The hug potential... alright, hear me out. I encountered two distinct personalities. The front desk staff were pretty neutral, but efficient. They knew their stuff. Fine. But there was this one housekeeper. She was hilarious. Genuinely funny. She clearly hated her job and she was, for the duration of my stay, the highlight of the experience. If I went to that hotel to have a good time, I didn’t. I was trying to have a normal hotel experience but she was like a stand up comedy act. She was super enthusiastic, but not in a creepy way. It was more like… she saw the utter absurdity of it all, and you know what? I think she wanted a hug. I didn't give her one. Fear of the unknown still prevents me from doing such things.
Was the TV any good? Because, sometimes you need a good mind-numbing TV experience.
The *TV*. Okay, this warrants its own chapter in the Burlington Getaway chronicles. The cable package, let's say, was… *selective*. I think I got three channels I recognized: CNN, some sports channel where I could watch people standing around, and a channel that seemed to be permanently stuck on reruns of a 90s sitcom that I was pretty sure involved a talking dog. The remote control was a relic and I spent about 20 minutes fighting with it before finally getting the picture to work. The volume was either barely audible or blasting, with no in-between. I think I cried at the talking dog, purely from frustration.
Would you recommend this "unbeatable deal"? Would you go back?
Would I recommend it? Honestly? It depends on what you're looking for. If you're expecting luxury, go elsewhere. If you're looking for a place to crash after a long day of exploring Burlington, and you're not overly picky about your coffee, then yeah, go for it. It’s a decent base camp. And hey, you might get to see a guy wrestling a kayak onto a minivan roof, accompanied by a hilariously cynical housekeeper. Would I go back? Maybe. But next time, I'm bringing my own coffee, my own remote control, and possibly earplugs. And I'm *definitely* leaving the expectation of luxury at the door. Maybe I'll even bring Kayak Guy a beer.
Anything else we should know? Any little tips for surviving the Burlington Getaway at the Best Western Plus?
Oh, okay, some pro-tips, gleaned from my time there: * Pack your own snacks. Trust me. That vending machine downstairs will mock you with its stale pretzels and overpriced granola bars. * Seriously, bring your own coffee. * If you see the housekeeper, embrace it. She probably needs a hug. Or just a good listener. Or, you know, both. * Burlington traffic is a monster. Plan accordingly. Add an hour to your estimated travel time. * Lower your expectations. Just... lower them. Then lower them a *little* bit more for good measure.
