Professional conferences have made me a regular at the Hyatt chains of hotels, and I can say that Ive been well pleased with the amenities and services provided by this brand. I've especially liked the Grand Hyatts with its central locations, decent onsite restaurants, city shuttle services and attached walkways to shopping malls and popular tourist destinations.
But I've also come to appreciate their Hyatt Place line--a simpler line that is coming to Honolulu this fall. The Hyatt place offers a conservative yet modern business casual feel and a smartly designed room. The sofa in the living area converts to a pull out sofa, the computer work station is situated next to a small kitchenette, and the bed and bath areas host necessities for the simple business traveler. It has everything you need--just don't expect room service. The folks at the front desk however tend to be very helpful and friendly so your travel needs will be taken care of. There are lounges with TVs, a pool, and a business center with computers and printers to use free of charge (larger Hyatt's charge for Internet and each printed page.)
You won't find a restaurant here (although there's a bar area to purchase hot sandwiches, salads and pastas) but your nightly stay comes with a pretty hearty breakfast Buffett featuring eggs, waffles, sausages, yogurt, granola, bagels, pastries, cereal, fresh fruit and an assortment of coffee, teas and juices. The breakfast menu changes daily and is a nice great given that the Hyatt Place is priced much cheaper than the average Hyatt Hotel rooms (which often charge for breakfast and room service). The other caveat is that while the larger Hyatt's are located central to prime tourist areas, Hyatt Places tend to be found off the beaten path and accessed via a rented vehicle. For those who like to take a hotel shuttle from the airport, who like eating at restaurants on premise, who look forward to their morning spa treatment, and who like instant access to the beach...the Hyatt Place will not be the right Hawaii hotel fit. However, the Hyatt Place is located close enough to Waikiki and other local beaches (less than ten minutes by car) and can be a really welcome treat for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist clad Waikiki. It may even be a nice get away for the locals as well!
