Ottawa's BEST Hotel? Delta Marriott City Centre Review!
Ottawa's BEST Hotel? Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre Review! (Brace Yourselves, It's a Ride!)
Okay, folks, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from a whirlwind stay at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre, and let me tell you, I'm still unpacking the emotional baggage (and the laundry). Is it Ottawa's "BEST" hotel? Well, that depends on your definition of "best," and whether you value immaculate perfection over a touch of chaotic charm. Let's dive into this thing, shall we?
First Impressions (or My Immediate Panic Attack)
Walking in, it's… fine. Clean, sleek, lobby – your typical Marriott design. But honestly? My first thought was, "Where's the personality?" It felt a little… bland. (I'm judging, I know. But I like my hotels with a side of quirk.) The check-in process was… whispers… efficient. Like, too efficient. I barely had time to fumble for my credit card before I was whisked to my room. No lingering smiles, no witty banter. Just… click, swipe, go. Okay, fine, I can handle that.
The Room: My Temporary Fortress (and Mini-Fridge Paradise!)
Now, the room itself? Much better. My inner control freak did a happy little jig. Cleanliness and safety felt top-notch. The place was spotless, and the individually-wrapped food options made me feel less like I was sharing germs with the entire continent. The room sanitization opt-out available, too, was a definite plus for the eco-conscious (and the germophobic!). This wasn't some dingy motel room. Think crisp white linens, a comfy bed (a VERY important aspect of any hotel stay, yes?), and a mini-fridge practically begging to be filled with… well, let's not get ahead of ourselves.
Okay, let's talk details, shall we? The real details. The Air conditioning worked like a dream keeping me cool without being too loud. I had a desk, but I didn’t use it. Free Wi-Fi that actually worked. Like, no lagging, no buffering – a miracle! The complimentary tea & coffee/tea maker were a godsend. (And no judgment about the immediate need for caffeine, people.) I had a decent view of the (city). The blackout curtains were my best friend at night. Sleep, glorious sleep! I also loved the bathrobes, because, you know, luxury.
Now for the slight downsides. The additional toilet was not exactly what I was expecting. Also, the mirror… well, I don’t want to talk about how many minutes I spent staring at myself. Shhhh I needed the mirror to be a bit better, ahem.
The Food: A Tale of Two Buffets (and My Uncontrollable Carb Cravings)
Alright, let's talk dining, drinking, and snacking. This is where things got… interesting. The breakfast [buffet] was the star of the show. Okay, it wasn’t exactly gourmet, but I do love a good buffet in restaurant. The eggs were… adequate. The bacon was crispy in the right places, but the toast, oh the toast, the glorious, carb-tastic toast! So many choices of breads. I went for the French Bakery bread. I ate a LOT of it. I had to work on my breakfast takeaway service since I ate so much in the restaurant.
Later on, I was in the restaurant for dinner, but it wasn’t a vegetarian restaurant and I couldn’t find much for my diet. . There was also a coffee shop, because, of course, there was, because, Ottawa. I may or may not have frequented it multiple times. No judgment, people. It was my fortress.
Important anecdote: I'm a total klutz, so I made a massive mess that I quickly forgot about. I accidentally spilled my coffee all over the table - like, everywhere. The staff was amazing - they didn't bat an eye, cleaned it up with lightning speed, and even brought me a fresh coffee gratis. Talk about making you feel better!
Amenities & Relaxation: The Pool (with a minor existential crisis)
The swimming pool [outdoor] looked amazing, but I was there during the winter, so I missed that opportunity. The thought of jumping into a pool with a view, (the pool with view), is nice to imagine though.
I didn't make it to the Fitness center because I wasn't in a good mood. The Spa/sauna caught my attention, and I was thinking about taking the time to go, but time escaped me. Maybe next time!
Accessibility: A Nod of Approval (But Room for Improvement)
The Wheelchair accessible areas and facilities were not the worst, but not perfect.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter (and Save Your Sanity)
The concierge was extremely helpful, even though I didn't need much. The daily housekeeping was spot-on. The laundry service saved me (thank God!). The car park [free of charge] was a definite win because the thought of searching for parking in a city I don't know is a nightmare. The elevator was also there, thank god.
Things to Do Around the Hotel: You're in Ottawa! Seriously, explore! It has a lot to offer. Walk around, visit a museum, go to the art gallery, etc.
Safety & Security: Feeling Safe? Mostly.
The CCTV in common areas and 24-hour security instilled confidence. I did feel safe!
The Quirks and The Minor Annoyances (Because No Place is Perfect)
The biggest thing: I wish the place had a lot more soul. It felt a little too… corporate for me. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate efficiency, but I also appreciate a bit of personality.
Also, the elevator was a bit slow at times. And the music in the lobby? Please, change it. It played the same elevator music. I wanted something more upbeat. I’m not asking for a disco party, but something a little more with character.
Overall Verdict: Definitely Worth Considering (But Don't Expect Fairy Dust)
So, is the Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre "the BEST" hotel? That depends on what you look for. If you want a reliable, clean, and efficient hotel with excellent amenities, it's a solid choice. If you're looking for a hotel stuffed with personality? This might not be it. But honestly? I’d go back. The location is prime. The convenience is superb. The staff were exceptionally great (and patient with my coffee-spilling tendencies!). And that bed… oh, that bed. It's a good hotel. It's not perfect. But it's good. Consider it a very solid “A-“.
And Now, The Offer! (Because You've Earned It!)
Craving a Ottawa getaway? Looking for a hotel that's reliable, comfortable, and conveniently located? Look no further! Book your stay at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre and enjoy:
- Guaranteed Cleanliness & Safety: We're obsessed with keeping you safe!
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected!
- Delicious Dining: Whether you have time for the buffet or a quick snack, we've got you covered!
- Prime Location: Explore Ottawa with ease!
- Comfy Rooms: You'll be counting sheep in style!
To sweeten the deal, book your stay through this review and get: (insert some sort of incentive here like a discounted rate, a free breakfast, or a bottle of wine upon arrival).
Click here to book your Ottawa adventure! [Insert Booking Link Here!]
Escape to Paradise: Luxurious Kuching Staycation in 36 REX Apartment!Alright, buckle up, Buttercup, because this isn't your meticulously crafted travel blog. This is me, wrestling with a Delta Hotels by Marriott in Ottawa, and believe me, it's a journey.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre: A Rollercoaster of Expectations (and Questionable Coffee)
Day 1: Arrival - Mostly a blur of exhaustion and potential for disaster
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM: Arrival & Check-In. So, first impressions? The lobby is… functional. It's not breathtaking, but it's clean and the air conditioning actually (blessedly) works. The check-in lady seems slightly jaded, but who can blame her? I'm already running late after a flight that felt like purgatory with questionable in-flight entertainment. (Seriously, how many times can you watch "Cats & Dogs 2: The Revenge of Kitty Galore"?) The paperwork shuffle and the eventual keys handover. "Enjoy your stay!" she chirps. I'm aiming for "Survive your stay."
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM: The Room Revelation: Okay, the room…it's a room. Let's be honest, it's a perfectly adequate room. A bed, a desk, a TV that I will never figure out how to use without a degree in engineering. Oh, and a view of… another building. The Canadian flag waving mockingly. Nevermind, whatever. I'm too tired to care. Time for a pre-nap.
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: The Nap of Doom (and a failed coffee attempt): I collapsed on the bed, certain I'd just close my eyes for five minutes. Three hours later, I awoke in a cold sweat, disoriented, and convinced I'd missed the apocalypse. The hotel coffee situation? Tragic. This stuff is…thin. It tastes faintly of sadness. I'm now questioning all my life choices.
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Attempting to Adult (and Failing): I force myself to shower. I decide to try and conquer the "map" app. I become hopelessly lost trying to find a decent grocery store. The "Nearby" option just sends me to a Subway. My spirit is crushed.
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Dinner (or, the Quest for Edible Sustenance): Turns out, you can find a decent restaurant right across the street! Poutine! A Canadian savior. Greasy, cheesy deliciousness. I ate it all and haven't regretted it.
7:00 PM - Bedtime: The Great TV Mystery: Back in the room. I try, and fail, and try again to use the TV. I give up and stare blankly at the ceiling as my brain slowly shuts down.
Day 2: Culture Shock and Questionable Decisions
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM: Breakfast (or, the continuing saga of the coffee): The hotel breakfast buffet is…present. The coffee is definitely still a crime against humanity. I eat a sad looking bagel.
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Parliament Hustle & Bustle: Okay, Ottawa's Parliament is impressive. Absolutely breathtaking. The architecture… the history… the crowds. I tried to take in the views and not faint from sheer sensory overload. I definitely got a bit emotional seeing the Peace Tower. Silly, I know. Very impressive though.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Byward Market: Sensory Overload (and Food Glorious Food!): Holy Hannah! The Byward Market is a vibrant mess! I got distracted by a maple syrup vendor (who was clearly judging my fashion sense). Bought a bottle anyway. And some incredible cheese!
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: National Gallery of Canada: Fine Arts and Existential Questions: The National Gallery is beautiful, but honestly? Modern art makes me feel like a toddler playing with crayons. I spent a good fifteen minutes staring at a blank canvas, trying to figure out the "meaning." I think I failed. But the building itself is a work of art.
2:30 PM - 4:00 PM: The "Coffee" Crisis (Revisited): Needed the caffeine. Tried a cafe near the gallery. Success! Finally, a decent cup of coffee! I felt like a whole new person. Which is amazing, because after the gallery I felt like I had lost my mind.
4:00 PM - Bedtime: Back to My Lonely Hotel Prison: I wander aimlessly, feeling slightly lost. Order something on room service. It's fine. My brain is mush.
Day 3: Departure (Thank God)
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM: The Buffet Confrontation: I face the buffet again. The coffee is still an insult. Sigh.
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Packing and Pre-Departure Panic: Packing is a chaotic mess. I can never seem to fold things right.
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Check-Out: Everything is smooth. The jaded check-out person is slightly less jaded. Miracle.
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Fond Farewells (and a Secret Plea): Goodbye, Ottawa! Goodbye, Delta Hotels (may your management invest in better damn coffee!). I hope I get to go home and sleep.
Ottawa's BEST Hotel? Delta Marriott City Centre Review (My Brain Dump, Basically)
Is the Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre REALLY worth the hype? (Because, let's be honest, hotels can be such LIARS.)
Okay, HYPE. That's the word, isn't it? I've stayed there, I’ve lived there, and frankly, sometimes I just *dream* about that lobby. Okay, maybe not *always* the lobby, but that place... it's got this weird hold on you. Depends. If hype means a decent location (hello, Parliament! Hello, ByWard Market stumbling distance!), clean rooms (mostly!), and a generally smooth experience? Yeah, it's probably "worth the hype"... but… It's Ottawa. The hype bar isn't exactly Everest, you know? We're talking a little hill. A nice, clean, well-maintained little hill.
My brutally honest take? It’s a solid choice. Could be better. Could be WAY worse. I'd rate it a solid 7.5/10. But the devil, as they say, is in the details… which we will get to, oh yes, we will get to those details.
Location, Location, Location: How's the Delta for exploring Ottawa? (Can I actually *walk* anywhere?)
Okay, location. HUGE win. Seriously. You stumble out (post-poutine, let's be real) and you're basically *there*. Parliament Hill? Five-minute walk. The ByWard Market? Ten minutes, tops, and you can weave between the buskers and street performers. (Pro-tip: DON'T make eye contact with the guys in the giant animal costumes. Trust me on this.)
I remember one time… this was pre-COVID, thank god… I was so jet-lagged from a trip, and I just wanted a coffee. I wandered out of the hotel at like, 6 AM, bleary-eyed, probably still wearing my pajamas. I was right there at a Starbucks! Literal steps away! It was a godsend. And the canal? Walkable! Museums? Yep! You can even endure the walk and see the War Museum. For Ottawa, it’s phenomenal. Seriously. For a major city, It's golden. You're not spending half your vacation fighting for parking or stuck on a bus. Big. Win.
Imperfection Alert: Okay, the immediate area can get a bit... intense at night. Lots of people, lots of noise (especially on weekends). Doesn't bother me much, but if you're wanting complete silence, request a room higher up and away from the street. (Although, even then... you're still in Ottawa! Silence is a rare commodity.)
The Rooms: Are they actually *clean*? (Because, germs, people, germs!)
Ah, the cleanliness conundrum. This is where the Delta City Centre *mostly* shines. I've stayed in… a lot of hotels, and I'm a bit of a neat freak. (Don't judge me!) The rooms, for the most part, are clean. Like, actually clean. I haven't found any rogue hairs in the shower (a personal victory!), and the beds are usually crisp and inviting.
BUT… One time. ONE TIME. I checked into a room, and… well, let's just say there were some questionable stains on the carpet. And the showerhead, I swear, hadn't been cleaned since the dinosaurs roamed the Earth. I called the front desk, they were apologetic, and they promptly moved me. So, the customer service was good, and problems quickly vanished. But still… the memory lingers. It's a reminder that even at nice hotels, perfection is a myth. It reminded me of my own cleaning habits (or lack thereof.)
So, short answer: generally clean, BUT always do a quick scan. You know, just in case. And don't be afraid to speak up! They *usually* fix things promptly.
The Amenities: Pool, Gym, Restaurant… Are they worth bothering with? (I’m lazy, prioritize!)
Alright, the lazy person's guide to amenities! Let's do this. The pool? Eh. I've used it a few times. It's… fine. Clean enough, but not particularly memorable. Good for a quick dip, I guess. Don't expect a resort experience.
The Gym: Actually, surprisingly decent! It's got the usual equipment – treadmills, weights, etc. And it's usually pretty empty, which is a major bonus. No waiting around to use the treadmill! That's worth its weight in gold. I’ll say this, if you want to work off the beaver tails, it delivers.
The Restaurant (Score Kitchen & Bar): Okay, here's where things get interesting. The food is… well, it's hotel restaurant food. Which is to say: usually fine, sometimes surprisingly good, occasionally a bit disappointing. The service can be hit or miss. I’ve had some fantastic meals there, and some that left me feeling… meh. And it’s a classic hotel restaurant, so you get your usual: expensive, but convenient. If you're tired and don't feel like venturing out, it’s a fine option. But Ottawa has SO many amazing restaurants, I'd recommend exploring beyond the hotel's walls, if you have the time and energy.
Quirky Observation: The little plastic containers of jam at breakfast always seem… slightly… sad. Like, they’ve seen better days. It’s a small thing, but it always makes me chuckle.
The Service: Are the staff… well, nice? (Because nobody wants a grumpy concierge!)
Ah, the *people*. This is often the make-or-break factor for me. And… the staff at the Delta City Centre? They're *generally* good. Not the most enthusiastic, not the most overly-friendly, but generally helpful and pleasant. Which, let’s be honest, is WAY better than grumpy!
I’ve had a couple of truly excellent encounters. Once, the front desk staff went above and beyond to help me track down a lost item (a very sentimental scarf, don't ask!). That level of service? Priceless. And another time, the housekeeping staff actually remembered my name and my coffee order! (Okay, maybe I was staying there a bit too long, but still… impressive!).
But then… you get the occasional… less stellar experience. The check-in process *can* be slow, especially during peak hours. And sometimes, you get the feeling they’re just… going through the motions. “Have a nice day” delivered in a monotone. It’s not the end of the world, but it’s not quite the warm, welcoming feeling you hope for. It's Ottawa, though. We're polite, but not exactly known for effusive displays of affection.