Feeling Blue? Here's a Hotel for You

Having never really enjoyed a stay in Albuquerque, New Mexico, I was aghast at finding out I had to be there with only 5 days notice. Somehow this was a cruel trick played upon me by those who knew my dread for this city. Having stayed in most of the 'upscale' hotels, and being disappointed every time, a lowering of the standards seemed to apply here.

Whether it was rude shuttle drivers, dirty towels, terrible breakfast foods, or the distance from downtown, I couldn't seem to get it right. Call it what you will, the 505 really had it out for me.

Parting with conventional methods, I broke a promise to myself and decided to use one of those internet travel sites (you know...the ones with the terrible commercials of ornamental garden items) to see if I could randomly find a place that may actually provide a decent experience.

I read many reviews, saw hundreds of photos that obviously were not actual representations of the hotels I have seen driving by, and then one that I had not yet seen came across the search. They described themselves as a 'chic boutique' hotel. And with a name like Hotel Blue, I was willing to give them a shot.

After arriving at the airport and calling for the shuttle, at first I was hesitant. With a crack in the windshield being the first impression, well...I wasn't impressed. But once the driver got out, all fears seemed to have melted away. He was courteous, opened the doors for me and loaded my luggage.

They were located at 717 Central Avenue NW on the west side of downtown ABQ, within walking distance of everything I needed. Old Town was nearby, which is a neat little place full of history and ice cream vendors. Downtown could be seen from the pool, and was well within reach by foot.The rooms, although quaint, were clean and tidy. They utilize the Tempurpedic sleep system, which was great for this old back. The staff was incredibly grateful and kind, and even had CAT-5 cables to use if you couldn't get wireless internet in the room. And the best of all, the room only cost $67 per night.

Breakfast was decent, albeit limited. A newspaper was waiting for me right when I woke up. I only had one night in the Land of Enchantment, but thanks to Hotel Blue, I had my first decent trip yet, and I didn't have to lower my standards.