Hilton Garden Inn, Columbus

On March 20th we had posted a tough (but fair) review regarding a rehearsal dinner. While I can't rescind it, I can provide a positive update. Last week, we met with hotel management who was extremely professional and gave us a heartfelt apology. We were very impressed that they had seen the review before the meeting and were determined to make things right. The attitude was one that I wish we could more often in business these days - they cared about their performance and wanted to make it right (and did). This showed a high-level of professionalism that is rare these days and for that we thank Hilton Garden Inn and it's commitment to being a top-notch hotel.

We had reserved a room for a wedding rehearsal dinner and booked / paid for it. We had gotten a run-around with the event coordinator several months before the event that it had been double-booked. We insisted that they honor their commitment and get us the room (a terrible mistake on our part). As the timing of the event neared, we were assured that the other party would be gone at least 3 hours before our event. We were even offered back half of our $500 down payment. for all the inconvenience. Boy, were we surprised when we showed up to a cramped corner of a different room. Not only that, the other event was going on with only a partition between us. It was so loud (drums, musicians, and vocalists), that we could not hear ourselves talk at our tables. Naturally, the coordinator was not there that evening and it was clear that the staff was baffled by the situation. We asked them to address this prior to dinner and was told they were "trying." We left 2-hours later and the other party was still going. What a humiliating experience as we were hosting this event for our current and extend family-to-be (not to mention the bride and groom). Not only did the coordinator flat out lie about our accomodations, it seemed she had not adequately coordinated with her staff.. Which brings me to the food. At more than $40 dollars a head, we received horrible tasting steaks, instant mashed potatoes, and cold apple pie (I think that's what it was). Bottomline, we did not receive what we signed up for, had an embarrassing experience, and ate some of the worst food in memory. The bride and groom won't have that evening back unfortunately - Hilton is in our debt, even if it were entirely free!

I was very disappointed that my package didn't include at least a complimentary donut (coffeemaker in room no consolation). $9.95 plus tax and tip to get the day started is not my idea of a warm wake up in an executive hotel. Members of my family stayed at the Homewood Suites Hilton a few miles away for the SAME RATE and had a FULL BUFFET breakfast EVERY MORNING (plus dinner Monday-Thursday evenings)! The Hilton Corporation should correct this unpleasant oversight immediately or one very large group will not be staying at the Garden in Columbus, Georgia again.

Sometimes traveling is not always for vacation. It can be necessitated by business or some other event. If you have to be away from familiar surroundings, yet still want to "feel the love", this is your place. What a surprise. As you wind your way through a business park, you never imagine that at the end of the path you'll find "home". Nestled away at the end of the drive, a lake topping off this serene setting, the front doors open and you're home. From the friendly desk clerks, to the chef who'll know your name that first day and will provide that great down home southern fare, to the office staff, everyone is at your service...or not. It's whatever you want. But know that you'll miss a stellar opportunity to forget the hustle and bustle to which you may be accustomed, if you don't take full advantage of the food, ambience and "love" that emanates from this great little treasure.

I stayed here on business and was very pleased. I was very comfortable here. The room was very spacious, well equipped, and nicely decorated. There is a gym, walking track, and business center with computers, fax, copier, etc. I was very happy with the service and the cleanliness. The location was great because it was close to the major roads but nestled away far enough to not hear the noise. I'd definitely stay here again.