Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection (Newport, USA)

The Pacific serves as the dramatic backdrop to this hotel and guests were delighted to find that views of this vast ocean could be enjoyed from the privacy of their very own balconies. For many, this aspect alone was enough to raise the profile of this property.

This property has been subject to considerable recent renovation, a point that hasn’t gone unnoticed by guests. The overall look and feel of the rooms is clean, modern and simple, but they are well-equipped with very thoughtful amenities, including gas fireplaces and Keurig coffee makers. Also, guests absolutely loved the freshly baked cookies and salmon chowder offered by staff.

The overall customer service standard here is top-notch, enhancing the overall thoughtfulness of the amenities. The reception team is helpful, outgoing and keen to smooth over any small issues before they become problematic.

There were lots of reports of painfully slow elevators at this property; many noted that they had to wait a number of minutes for a ride.

This property does offer a considerable breakfast buffet, but many guests commented that items weren’t kept hot. Also, most felt that the quality and variety of the offerings was less than impressive, with many noting rubbery eggs reconstituted from a powdered mix.

The beautiful views certainly drew the crowds in, but many were disappointed to find that there was no direct access to the beach here.