Review of the King's Ransom Hotel in Sedona, Arizona

Stunning red rocks set against a cloudless blue sky. Warm sunshine on your face. A subtle change in energy that seems to clarify the senses . This is Sedona, Arizona - vacation spot for nearly three million visitors each year. I've been visiting Sedona for over 15 years and can't think of a better place to relax and rejuvenate. But it can be an expensive place to spend the night - especially during peak seasons. If you just want a clean, comfortable room, the King's Ransom Hotel is a good option for the frugal traveler.

Our most recent Sedona visit was over the Thanksgiving holiday. For just $99 a night, we stayed in a Trail Head room with a king size bed, sleeper sofa, whirlpool tub, refrigerator, and nice patio. Complimentary continental breakfast is included. Trail Head essentially means you have no view. The rear of the hotel is built against a red rock embankment. The room was clean and the bed was comfortable.

A short walk to the court yard brings you to a very nice pool and jacuzzi. Grounds are well maintained and the pool is clean.

I was pleasantly surprised that the complimentary personal care products were my favorite flavor of Bath and Body Works: coconut lime verbena.

Located just south of the shopping district on Highway 179, the King's Ransom Hotel is convenient and easy to find. It's just a hop, skip and a jump to many shops and galleries, including the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. The hotel backs up to the Munds Mountain Wilderness Area and hiking trails are quite literally right outside the back door.

Perhaps the best feature is the Elote Café located on the second floor, directly above the hotel lobby. Open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday, Elote Café features artistic gourmet Mexican food. Award winning chef Jeff Smedstad is very "hands on" and visible as he closely oversees both the kitchen and dining room. Whatever entrée you select from the menu, be sure to start off with the tomato salad. Fresh tomato slices layered with Oaxaca cheese, onion, radish, pickled jalapeno and marinated with a cider vinaigrette. A simply wonderful treat for the taste buds.

Bottom line, the King's Ransom is not a luxurious honeymoon hotel, but it is a good solid value if you're looking for clean, comfortable and family-friendly lodging.

High Points:

-- Good price.

-- Clean and quiet rooms.

-- Nice pool and jacuzzi.

-- Elote Café.

Low Points:

-- Pillows were small. Was wishing I'd brought my own.

-- Customer service at front desk was less than stellar.