jgattuso
Google
I knew almost nothing about Santiago before this unexpected work trip other than its views of the mountains and that it showcased Chilean wines. I didn't know the AC hotel chain at all, only that it is affiliated with Marriott and Bonvoy.|It was a pleasant stay.||I judge hotels largely by the people and the people here rate high in my book. It started with Sophy at check-in, who was both helpful.and agreeable to conversation. I later interacted with front desk staff and all were helpful and accommodating.||The real standout on this trip was Miguel ("that's Mike in Spanish!"), a waiter at breakfast. Beyond being a good waiter, Miguel is one of the most interesting people I've met in a long time, with thoughtful perspectives on many things.||Another earnest waiter at breakfast was Kathy (although I think that is the English version of her name). In the evening, Melanie escorted me as I took photos of the hills against an orange sky.||Speaking of the views, my room overlooked the cities and the mountains. Two times staff at at the restaurnt recommended that i go to the roof to see that view -- but the sun sets on the other side. (Personal trivia:like a hotel in another city that I stayed in earlier in September, this hotel has views on all sides).||Some minor things:||Reception is on the 17th floor, which is fine, but I don't remember the button being marked and it meant some navigating to get there. It wasn't clear how to best get from the hotel to the shopping center next door and vice versa. I couldn't figure out how to find the cut-through when coming back from shopping. Even when departing, although I saw the elevator button for the connection on level 5, when my colleagues were expecting me on level -2, I didn't know about the separate garage elevators. It didn't help that I speak almost no Spanish and the doorman spoke no English.||Taxis and Ubers for some reason did not want to make drop offs at the hotel entrance, but instead around the block. This was not a problem at pickup, but I had to do a lot of walking on my return.||My room wasn't extremely large, but the very high ceiling added to a sense of spaciousness.||Unfortunately, I had to cut my stay short. I hope I can get back someday.