The Forest Villas Hotel in Beautiful Prescott, Arizona

The three star resort hotel, Forest Villas, had to be special because we were celebrating our anniversary and so we drove the three hours from Lake Havasu City to Prescott, Arizona for an overnight stay. We wanted to splurge on this trip without going over budget, but we also wanted a view, comfort, amenities, breakfast included and a good location.

As soon as my eyes saw the white "wrought iron" patio chair seating areas, numerous trees and English ivy climbing the walls of the coach entrance and around the hotel, I was enchanted, and that was only the beginning. When we entered to register for our room my eyes took in the large curved staircase, crystal chandeliers, elegant furniture, and the friendly smile at the Reception Desk. Curved archways, plants and flowers, paintings all added to the European style of this hotel.

The word "charming" kept coming to my head as we went up the elevator to the second floor. The elevator itself had small, framed paintings and the peach colored hallways were clean and quiet. When I saw there was snow in the distant mountains, my husband was able to get us a room with such a view. The room was tastefully decorated with fluffy white pillows, colorful curtains, a bar fridge, alarm clock, cable TV, coffee/tea maker, iron and board, hair dryer and more. I stepped out on our Mediterranean style balcony to take in the crisp chilly winter air of the mountains.

Located just four miles east of historic downtown Prescott, this hotel offered everything we hoped for and at a very reasonable price. Overlooking Lee Boulevard we saw a strip mall with restaurants and shops and just up the same boulevard was a major mall, Prescott Gateway Mall. After a nice dinner and a little shopping at mall, we were treated to falling snowflakes, a real delight to us desert rats from Lake Havasu.

It was almost magical, driving around, watching the snowflakes as we visited the town square of Prescott, taking in the sights and enjoying the cool evening. As we learned later from some of the locals there, Prescott doesn't get a lot of snow, so my husband and I were lucky to see it snow that night. The hotel staff was so nice. Late at night when my husband needed change for the vending machines or when I wanted to use their microwave, the Reception Desk clerk was very kind and helpful.

The next morning we toured the public areas of the hotel: the swimming pool and spa, several quaint outdoor seating areas, laundry room, vending machines and a business center. There was also a combined breakfast room & pub. The hotel lounge was inviting with cushioned settees, couches and chairs near a cozy fireplace and a white baby grand piano.

Breakfast was served from 7 - 10 AM and it came with oatmeal, cereals, eggs, sausages, muffins, toast, fruit, and toaster waffles! When the room is used as a pub it offers a variety of beer, wine and champagne. I was able to use the hotel's WI-FI at no extra charge and to read their complimentary newspaper. Their concierge was very informative, telling us about the local restaurants in the area. Forest Villas has a pianist that plays the baby grand on weekends.

Smoking and pets are not permitted there, so this is something guests must consider. Not having to worry about either case, my husband and I enjoyed a very pleasant stay there and look forward to returning one day soon.

For more information call: Toll Free: 800-223-3449 TEL: 928-717-1200
or visit their website for photos and a virtual tour: www.forestvillas.com