I have been told I am mean. I have been told that people from Philadelphia are mean. Both statements can be true and false depending on the situation. If the staff of the Hyatt Centric Philadelphia and the businesses surrounding it are representative of Philadelphians, I would say that Philly is the sweetest city in the world.
Double Dip Amex Fine Hotel + Globalist Benefits
I recently was approved for the coupon book of credit cards known as the Amex Business Platinum. One of the perks is a $300 statement credit for a 2-night stay at a Fine Hotel. As the year is coming to an end, I wanted to make sure I used this perk before it expired. The cheapest option for my two nights in Philadelphia was the Hyatt Centric. The retail price was $539.36. Out of pocket, I paid $239.36, an effective use of the credit. In addition to the hotel credit, I received a $100 stay credit which I used for a mediocre dinner (see $100 Credit Amex Fine Hotels: What a Pain).
My concern with using this Amex perk is that I would be denied my Globalist benefits, namely, two free bottles of water! Namely, free breakfast. Amex said it was at the discretion of the hotel. That was not the case. At check-in, my status was recognized and my bottles of water were dispensed with no fuss.
Location
The hotel is in the city center, full of bars, shopping, and restaurants, including Cleavers, the better option for a Philly Cheesesteak (see Best CheeseSteak in Philly? Don’t Ask Me).
Room
Bathroom
Bean Water Coffee
Hotels must have Nespresso machines. Keurigs are terrible and should be outlawed.
Breakfast
I opted for the buffet. I am glad it was free. Imagine paying $100 for this:
Overall
I received maximum value at this hotel and I received great service. Who says Philly is full of mean people? Everyone was very nice and accommodating. Who says TPOL is a not a nice guy? I have people skills!
The softer side of Sears….
People in Philly just have low tolerance for stupid. Most people have some level of stupid. You don’t perhaps? I’ve never had a problem with people in Philadelphia – I mean other than the airport where people have been known to drive tugs out an airport gate to a bar in Essington while on the clock or get into fights on the ramp. That’s always fun as a manager. But I’ve always seen it as the worse it gets, the easier it makes it for me as the lines between write-up and termination start becoming clearer.
That hotel is in a good area there near Rittenhouse Square (I looked it up). I’ve found Philly more walkable than a lot of places. Certainly more compact. I’ve stayed at a Kimpton not far from there. A Target was within like 3 blocks which was useful for me to buy a new phone charging cord without paying a 300% markup. Proximity to 30th St station is good too, whether going to airport or Amtrak anywhere.
I agree. Most people are stupid.