Think R for R & R!
What we liked?
We especially liked the location for our purposes both trips. We wanted to rest, relax, shop, and enjoy a new restaurant or few -- and we were able to do all of those things aplenty from the Renaissance. Located in the Arboretum area, the Renaissance is well situated for walking, jogging, or bicycling. One can wander out first thing in the morning to La Madeleines bakery/ patisserie across the main thoroughfare, checking out Pier 1 and other shops in that section. If staying on the same side of the road, one can easily hit Barnes and Noble, the Cheesecake Factory, or Pottery Barne -- as well as many other fine shops in that walkaround mall.
Actually, several restaurants are within walking distance if one chooses, but they are within very short driving distance. We particularly liked Z-Tejas grill, returning repeatedly. It adjoins Eddie V's, which we were told is also excellent, especially for seafood. Which reminds me -- the Concierge folks at Renaissance are courteous and give examplary help in getting one's bearings, whether it's for dining, just kicking around, or planning some musical enjoyment for the evening. We found them cordial, quick, and concerned about service.
We thoroughly enjoyed the indoor pool and fitness center downstairs, too. The only drawback on that was that the jacuzzi tub needed a little fine tuning. It was working and enjoyable, but a couple of the jets were lagging.
Oh, yes -- let's not forget the rooms. The rooms are nicely kept, and the beds are quite comfy! We were on the concierge floor on our third stay and found that to be especially enjoyable (yes, of course -- a bit extra unless they are booked up and you luck out... but fun if possible!).
We would highly recommend this hotel to other travelers, especially if you're doing the "weekend getaway/ down time" thing. Enjoy!