The Cliff Lodge and Spa, Alta

I've never experienced such bad staff morale, which adversely effected every aspect of service. During my week stay I overheard at least a dozen conversations among staff, putting down management, and never heard a good word. I specifically heard complaints of being underpaid, which translated into an almost embarrassing eagerness for tips. Maintenance was also abysmal as far as I could see: in my room alone (# 641, in case you want to go check) the sink wouldn't drain, the fawcett was stuck, the sheets were torn and the rug was stained. Everything cost money, very little was includedin the expensive daily rate - like $45/3 days to use any part of the spa (including hot tub and exercise machines. You could also get more features for this fee, but if this was all you wanted, it was sort of insulting to have to pay this much). Then there were weird things, like having a continental breakfast delivered with only a fork (the only implement I didn't need), but no spoon, knife or napkin! "Why couldn't they just wrap all the silverware together in a napkin?" I ask. Answer: "They don't have enough silverware so we have to guess at what you'll need." Me: "That's really wierd!" Reply: "Tell me about it!"