Rob N.
Yelp
I think your enjoyment of a property like this is dependent on what you expect from a hotel. If you want a business-class place with work space, a variety of food, and modern conveniences, this is not that kind of hotel. Neither is it a discount chain. To expect either is disingenuous. Likewise, you get what you pay for, and certain amenities are only guaranteed with certain room types - the standard room does not get you everything. This is a boutique hotel, something that most US travelers just don't see much, and it's one of the better ones I've stayed in. It boggles my mind that someone would complain about a $200 rate when the Courtyard just up Meeting street is $40 a night more for a basic corporate room, same as every other Courtyard. Even the Days' Inn is $140 a night, for a small room with exterior entry.
We stayed here for three nights, and reserved a deluxe king room. What we got was an airy, nicely appointed space in a classy old building with high ceilings, a comfortable four-poster canopy bed, large windows that - while only providing a view of the side of the King's Courtyard across the narrow alley - did let in a comfortable amount of light, and peace and quiet. Wireless internet was fast, included with the room, and low-hassle - only had to sign in once at the beginning of the stay, and the machine was authorized from that point on. Parking was convenient, with in/out privileges. The included continental breakfast was perfectly adequate for a bite to eat to start the day - we'd been hitting the local restaurants hard, and the *last* thing we wanted was a giant pile of food first thing.
The staff were consistently friendly and helpful. It's nice that the entrance to the small reception area is off the public street (and quaintly lit with gaslamps). Don't forget that you're not only paying for the room, but the location, and this small hotel is very convenient to everything in historic Charleston. Most of the things you'd want to see or do are within a few minutes' walk. Check your chain hotel expectations at the door, accept that old buildings can smell old and it's OK, and enjoy a slightly different lodging experience.