The Mondrian Hotel - a Safe Haven in Scottsdale, Arizona

On a recent trip to Scottsdale, Arizona, my significant other and I decided to try out The Mondrian. And we were nothing short of impressed. From the outside, all you can see is white walls. There is no huge sign telling you where to enter. Honestly, it did take us a few trips around the block before we figured out how to get in there. The lounge and lobby area is detached from the guest suites. This only added to your privacy. They do have the option of using a valet, but it is just as easy to park your own car.

The lobby when you walk in is extremely contemporary and very white. Downstairs is a lounge area with several couches and a business center with conference rooms and computers where you can print boarding passes. The staff was welcoming and friendly. It was amazing just to walk around and see all the modern furniture and fixtures used throughout the building.

The room itself was cozy and comfortable. The bed was very comfortable. Beware, though, the wood platform might make some noise if you move around a little too much. The patio was set in the middle of a very lush garden. The restroom and all of the furniture and fixtures were the essence of contemporary.

The grounds here are truly spectacular. It is just like your own oasis in the desert. The whole lot is enclosed in concrete walls. There are two pools. A huge hot tub and fireplace sit at the end of the largest one. It is surrounded by lounge chairs. The second is a smaller, but equally beautiful sparkling pool surrounded by plant life. There are water features and hidden hammocks at almost every turn. The fitness center is nice and full of new equipment. All in all, the grounds are lush and peaceful.

The Mondrian is home to the Red Bar lounge, a classy part of Scottsdale nightlife. Also, it is home to the restaurant, Asia de Cuba, one of the finest dining restaurants in Scottsdale. This is a great place to dine after a night of culture at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, which is just across the courtyard that opens up in The Mondrian's backyard.

The Mondrian is a great place to go if you are just wanting to get away. You don't even have to leave the grounds to relax. They have everything you need. Also, it is within walking distance of fine dining, Fifth Avenue Shops, Starbucks, The Center for the Performing Arts, and a vast majority of downtown restaurants and shops galore.

Overall, we loved this place. The only drawback was that there is no free WiFi. Yes, they make you pay for it. However, it was a small drawback because, like I mentioned, there is a Starbucks just a short block away.