Homestead, The, Hot Springs

I developed illness related to back surgery during the week prior to checking into a meeting, and the resort was trite enough to keep the $260 deposit despite my explanation and inability to make the trip. My family spent nearly $10,000 during the same calandar year celebrating my mother's 70th. It seems reasonable to forgive a deposit during illness. I can only assume they need the money, rather than the honor. The potential for repeat business is immaterial to a large corporation which is what the Homestead has enbraced. I recommend that any travelers review local smaller inns and B&B prior to truly committing money to this beast. When the Homestead was privately owned it was wonderful. Don't rely on those memories!! I have been there many times as a VA native - the current situation crushes my heart. I took skiing lessons there as a Washington & Lee student and courted at the same. I don't understand how witholding deposit from the ill helps the business model, but if you have no chance of being ill or cancelling, go for it! I can't imagine that the landscpe had been destroyed, so ignore the rude staff and go for it!