A Review of D. C.'s Mandarin Oriental Hotel

If you're looking to spend about $235 to $485 a night on a hotel room in Washington, you will have several options. If you're looking for a hotel with conference facilities, a 50-foot indoor pool, world class spa, and unbeatable waterfront views, you can't go wrong with the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in the Southwest district '" especially if you have a taste for the exotic and might be interested in possible celebrity sightings. (If you are doing business with the USDA, House of Representatives, or the Bureau of Engraving, the location can't be beat.)

Even the most basic city-view room has top-of-the-line features. Large flat panel TV in your room not enough? How about a 17-inch one in the bathroom that can be swing-arm adjusted in case you're in the tub or on the thrown? It's not just the added features that make these rooms special. The beds have a three-foot memory foam pad that transports you like a magic carpet to the best night's rest you've ever had. At night, the guest robe and super soft slippers are laid out and calling your name. The Chinese décor, bottled water waiting on your night stand and relaxing music with turn down service are luxury effects you'll want to emulate at home.

The spa offers Asian inspired treatments, which come with access to their "heat and water experience". If you're desperately seeking some rejuvenation, choose from a Shiatsu, a Thai massage or an Oriental Foot Massage and more. They also offer a maternity massage as well as various aromatherapy infused body treatments. To maximize your experience, leave enough time to relax in the Zen room. The prices are comparatively high, so make sure to get the most out of your time there.

On the lower levels, an expansive conference and meeting hall offers several ballrooms with multiple arrangements. The spacious facilities here have received high marks for cleanliness, comfort, and quick turnaround. The grand ballroom which seats over 400 conference guests with a large staging arrangement can break down into three 100-seat rooms in under 15-minutes. The buffet areas for dining on the same level are also expansive and efficient. The quality of the food for catered events at this hotel is excellent as well.

Speaking of excellent food, the hotel's restaurant CityZen, located on the street level has some of the best food in town. Before rushing off to dinner, guests should grab a drink at the lobby bar and watch the sun set over the marina in back of the hotel. While not on the traditional beaten path of D.C., there are two metro stops within walking distance and Reagan International Airport is a quick taxi cab ride away. If you "have to" stay here for a conference, consider yourself fortunate.