Does the HVAC work properly? Yes, indeed - kept my room at exactly the temperature I like, and operated almost silently. How's the water? Also excellent - double shower heads make this a winner as well. ALL hotels should be able to tick those four boxes - clean, quiet, HVAC and water - and the Crowne Plaza in Kitchener does those very well. Add the very friendly, professional, and responsive staff to the list - these folks are obviously proud to be here, and go the extra mile to make guests feel welcome and cared for.
But - with those necessary comforts out of the way, what else does a hotel need in order to break through the two-star barrier and compete in the VERY competitive mid-range business hotel segment?
A complimentary breakfast buffet goes a long way. $20.00 for the buffet at the Crowne Plaza is too much. Free parking on the premises is also a strong draw - but at the Crowne Plaza, you pay $12.00 per day - to park in an unheated garage in which I never saw more than six other vehicles parked.
The neighbourhood feels very run-down. I saw more than one business with boarded-up windows, and there is nothing within walking distance to provide any form of entertainment. That's not the hotel's fault - but the Crowne Plaza is tired, and showing its age. My first room stank of cigarette smoke. The second was clean, but a broken light switch and very dim lightbulbs throughout could use a fix. Dented elevator doors don't lend confidence. Time for a renovation.