Royal Palms Resort and Spa

I'll be the first to admit that I am a tough customer. I don't travel much, so when I do, it is first cabin.

I believe that a five star facility should have no weak links, and when one pays the price for a 5 star, standard, systems and consistency are perfect. Having been to a few fives in my time, I know this level is possible. And even if one thing is off, there are two things that make up for it; and when you checkout, the only thing on your mind should be "what a great experience, when can I come back?!"

First, I will say the location is great, the setting is lush, quaint and some rooms have great views, the valet service was the fastest I have ever experienced, the bed was very comfortable, the spa was cozy, private and well appointed, and the food was very nice.

Now for the "not so good":

The hotel is old, so they have had to retrofit plumbing and air conditioning, and as a result some rooms have to be near the central cooling system which is noisy and on all night, and the plumbing lines can "hammer" in the middle of the night, every 7 minutes or so. I did not ever dream that a 5 star would have this condition, so did not think to ask when making the reservation.

The hotel was quite full our weekend, which meant so was the one, small pool. Lounges packed in tight, a very understaffed pool bar of overworked yet friendly staff trying their best, literally running to keep up. Definitely does not promote a "relaxing" environment. But they did keep up with filling your glass with ice water.

I don't know. Maybe once you notice one or two things awry, you get more sensitive to seeing more. There were little things like really worn carpeting in the halls, maid carts rolling around high visibility areas, and showers that were not sealed well enough so lots of water on the floor. It was a learning experience and I will know to ask a few more questions and research more thoroughly.

If it is the cost that drives the rating, then five it is (next time I'll look for a 6), but if it is the whole experience, 4 stars is appropriate, or in this case, 6.5-7 rating

A fantastic place for a romantic getaway. Bungalow style rooms all with unique decor. One of the 2 best restaurants in Phoenix. no glitz but high style and service.

Located at the base of the Camelback Mountains in Phoenix, Arizona, the Royal Palms Resort and Spa delights all your senses. In 1920 the Spanish style estate was built to be the private home of a New York financier.

After WWI it was purchased by investors and became an inn. The rest, as they say, is history. Today, the Royal Palms is one of the premier properties of the West. Colorful, Mexican tiles dot stone fountains. Desert landscaping decorate the courtyard and pathways leading to the rooms. The 117 guest rooms use the deserts palate of colors for inspiration. Tans, browns, clay reds and sage greens splash the walls.

Poolside is a popular place. With the Arizona sun shinning more than 300 days a year, a cool dip is mandatory. The Cabana Grill will keep one fed and hydrated throughout the day. For early risers, golfing is available nearby. Whether its summer or winter, the Royal Palms is a pleasure to visit.

The hotel has outstanding location, architecture and amenities. They were very welcoming of us and our pet. We will visit it annually during the Scottsdale Arabian Show!

This hotel made me feel important: The staff knew our names and welcomed us back warmly after any excursion. They even knew our dog's name! Our room was supplied with our favorite snacks. They also found a dog bed that was identical to the one our pet has at home!