Hampton Inn Goes Above and Beyond in Daniel Island, South Carolina

Thousands of people in the business world head to Daniel Island, South Carolina each year for software training at Blackbaud Industries. Their host hotel is the Hampton Inn and for good reason. Located less than a mile from the training center, the Inn contains the amieities of the larger hotels, while adding others that help to create a warm, southern charm.

The rooms are large, clean and spacious with premium cable channels and free high speed internet connections. An oversized work desk, comfortable chair and reading lamp complete the standard double and one king-bed rooms. Guests may choose to upgrade to a King-study room which also includes a sofa bed or to the two-room suite, which offers a seperate livingroom with cordless phone and VCR, and kitchenette with microwave, refrigerator, dishes and utensils.

Hampton Inn serves breakfast each morning beginning at 6:30. Fare includes two hot items which change each day. Samplings vary from breakfast pizzas with bacon, eggs and cheese to hot biscuits and gravy with sausage to belgian waffles with strawberry and peach toppings. Everyday staples include toast, bagels, muffins, hot and cold cereals, yogurt, fresh fruit and pastries. A coffee bar that also offers hot tea and cocoa remains open all day and into the evening.

A Happy Hour at 5:00 each evening includes a variety of cookies served straight from the oven while they're still warm and freshly brewed coffee. The lobby fills up quickly as the smell of warm chocolate chips and peanut butter fills the air. It becomes a time to relax in front of the fireplace and the 60" flat-screened televisions in the over-stuffed sofas and chairs that grace the large sitting room.

An outdoor pool and an indoor fitness room provides guests with the opportunity to relax and exercise. There are also several miles of walking/jogging paths beginning just yards from the front door of the hotel. These trails criss-cross Daniel Island and provide outdoor enthusiasts with breathtaking scenery and local wildlife.

A free shuttle van carries patrons back and forth from the airport, as well as to Blackbaud each day for training. For those wishing to travel into nearby Charleston for dinner or shopping, the shuttle carries guests at 6:00 p.m. each evening and returning at 10:00 each weekday evening. Weekend shuttle service is provided at 10:00 a.m. and returns at 4:00 p.m.

For those who don't wish to go into town to dine; Queen Anne's Revenge is located right next door. The restaurant, based on Black Beard's flagship serves steaks, pasta, chicken, seafood and ribs; as well as sandwiches and burgers. They offer an extensive wine list, appetizers with a local flavor, and decadent desserts. Sunday Brunch is served from 11:00-3:00 p.m.

Hampton Inn has a wonderful staff that strive to make your visit to Daniel Island a pleasant experience. From the shuttle van drivers to the front desk to the hospitality staff, their goal is to make your stay a home away from home. Try them out and you'll see that they are succeeding in their mission.