If Seattle is the Emerald city, then the Seattle Sheraton is clearly the jewel in the crown!

I had been to the Sheraton many times before my first actual overnight stay, attending meetings, retreats and large gala’s but I was completely unprepared for the pampering that I received on a recent “stay-cation” that I treated myself and my guy Javier to. Over and over people say that large hotels often miss opportunities to acknowledge the individual, that because of their size details are overlooked and sometimes folks get lost in the numbers. I can tell you that this hotel has no such problem, we felt like family from the moment we walked through the front door.


The lobby of the Seattle Sheraton Hotel

My first impression of the staff started with the valet service. I have said this many times before; a hotel has only one opportunity to make a first impression and the Sheraton team nailed it! The gentleman who greeted us as we pulled up into the amply staffed valet portico was right to task, smiling and warmly welcoming us to this grand and beautiful hotel. Check-in was seamless and in a flash we were off the room, welcomed as a gay couple without batting an eyelash…no pun intended. We walked into a beautiful corner suite with a view of the downtown core that was awesome. If this had been my first visit to Seattle I never would have left! The 20th floor gave us views of the city’s skyscraping buildings with the waters of the Puget Sound in the background shimmering and sparkling. I remember thinking that night with the curtains open and the lights twinkling how romantic this moment was. A perfect spot for my guy and I to spend some time together, just the two of us in the middle of this magnificent city. The beds, pillows and appointments were wonderful as were the toiletries and comfy towels and robes.

Our corner suite with the amazing view!

The hotel itself is practically a small city within itself with floors of meeting and event space, café’s, gym, restaurant and a wonderful lounge, in fact---I had one of the best Manhattans I’ve ever had….okay, maybe not just one. After a brief stay at the “happy hour” we ventured into the city which is literally right out the front door. We shopped, sipped and strolled through the downtown streets, enjoying the musicians, vendors and the very unique urban groove that is heartbeat of Seattle. Once back at the hotel the lounge beckoned for some late nasche and a night cap. I had a wonderful Washington wine, Javier a cocktail---the place was alive and magic…there were at least 3 other gay couples sitting close by and having a marvelous time.

Our "Manhatten" Hangout

Saturday arrived and we were off to the gym for a morning workout and run. Situated on the top floor, it seemed that the pool, spa and gym had the best view of all. A spectacular space with all the modern equipment, one of the best hotel workout centers I’ve enjoyed. We took a dip in the spa and headed to the room for showers and then onto the Club Lounge for coffee and breakfast. We sat by the window and met a very eclectic group of fellow guests. It was a perfect start to the day! We explored the city, coming back to home-base for a rest and then venturing out again. The shear convenience of this hotel was almost too perfect as we were literally in the center of the city.

The city vibe, fitness center and spa

Sunday brought a slow start and a leisurely “hang-out” in the room with a movie and room service. There may have been a mimosa or two as well. With a short walk to the Pike Place Market and back we wrapped up our stay and headed out. I learned later that there was much to this hotel that we didn’t even know until after we had left. Such as the fact that in 1993 the Sheraton started one of the first Green hotel initiatives by mandating that each department recycle materials and the hotel implemented a composting program, one of the first in the city. They have also recently completed a promenade beautification project on the back side of the hotel to visually enhance the neighborhood and encourage foot traffic. In addition, the Seattle Sheraton has taken a leadership role in working with the LGBT Community. They have hosted many events over the years that support equality, the non-profit community and organizations dedicated to education and HIV research. They are a wonderful Tourism Sponsor for the GSBA and work diligently to make sure that everyone who walks through their doors are welcomed and treated with respect and dignity. Our stay here was one that begs for a repeat visit and I’m counting the days!

By Jerome M Bader; Director of Marketing GSBA / Travel Gay Seattle

Photos; The Seattle Sheraton Hotel

http://www.sheratonseattle.com/