Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Now, I have to admit that usually, when my husband and I travel we either camp or we visit friends who can put us up for the night. While this may be somewhat limiting, as towhere we go, it's also nice to have a built in tour guide who can advise us about the local hot spots. But, as we get older, we find the comfort and privacy of a hotel room is well worth it.

So, this past New Year's Eve, we really decided to splurge and go to the top of the line establishment. We wanted to see a comedy show in Grand Rapids, Michigan, so we choose the premier Amway Grand Plaza. We were delighted that there was an enclosed skywalk right to the show's venue, so we didn't have to go back out into the night's frigid temperatures after the car was parked.

As part of our New Year's Eve package, we had valet parking, so we said good bye to our vehicle for the night and enjoyed the world within the Amway Grand. This hotel is in two parts, the historic Paintlind Hotel with early 20th century elegance, combined with the contemporary Glass Tower that is a prominent feature in the Grand Rapids skyline.

But as a hotel guest you expect more than history and profile. We choose the historic side and our room was spacious, with high ceiling and elegant features. Little luxuries make all the difference. The pillow top mattress and down pillows on the bed, the gorgeous glass and brass fixtures in the bathroom, the giant TV (that could be stored away in a credenza when not being viewed) and the glass water glasses were small things that added up to a real difference.

And the service! What a way to start the New Year, with Room Service coffee in bed! The attendant at the pool/hot tub was friendly and helpful, as was all the staff. The many stores and restaurants right in the complex, made it so you never wanted to leave! But, alas, check out time was upon us and we did need to get moving as we had plans for the day. We called for our car and they came for our bags. We really had to smile at the courteous and prompt way they handled our ancient, mismatched luggage. Did I say "luggage"? Well, a denim knapsack, a duffel bag that won't close and a beer cooler hardly count as luggage, but away they went on the brass cart liked they belonged to royalty.

"You know, honey," My husband sighed as we drove a way. I guess if we are going to stay at five star hotels in the future, we might want to look into some new suitcases!"