Escape to Peoria: Your Perfect Extended Stay Awaits!
Escape to Peoria: Your Extended Stay… Really Awaits? (A Messy, Honest Review)
Alright, buckle up, because I just clawed my way out of Escape to Peoria: Your Perfect Extended Stay Awaits! and I'm here to tell you…it was an experience. And by experience, I mean a rollercoaster of highs, lows, and the occasional "wait, did that really happen?" moment. This isn't your polished, sanitized review. This is me, fresh off the treadmill/spa/buffet, spilling the beans (possibly with some lingering hollandaise sauce stains).
Accessibility: The Good, the Okay, and the "Uh…?"
First things first, the accessibility. They claim to be accessible. And they do have an elevator, bless their hearts. But, and this is a BIG but, navigating the actual common areas in a wheelchair felt…well, dicey at times. The ramps were a little steep, the doors a little heavy, and the "accessible" restrooms – let's just say, they weren't always the most spacious. I appreciated the effort, but it felt like someone thought about accessibility, but maybe didn't live it. Now you might be thinking: "I don't use a wheelchair, why do I care?" Because, folks, if they cut corners somewhere, they might cut them everywhere. So, for accessibility, it's a mixed bag. Sigh.
On-site accessible restaurants / lounges: I believe they do have some, but my brain isn't functioning after all that swimming and spa. I couldn't find any problems, but I was also busy enjoying myself.
Internet: Bless the Free Wi-Fi Gods!
Okay, let's get the basics out of the way: Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Hallelujah! Because, let's be honest, in this day and age, paid Wi-Fi is a capital offense. The internet itself was…decent. I mean, I streamed a few movies and managed to upload my Instagram pics, so it wasn't dial-up. Internet [LAN] sounded like something from the Jurassic era, but hey, it was there, if you're into that sort of thing. Internet services? Standard stuff. Nothing to write home about.
Things to Do (and Ways to Avoid Doing Anything Productive):
This is where things get interesting. Ways to relax? Oh, they've got those in spades. Spa/sauna, steamroom, massage, body scrub, body wrap…it was like a relaxation buffet. I dove in headfirst.
Confession time: I spent an hour in the Sauna. Okay, maybe more. Let's say two. And it was glorious. That intense heat hit me just right, and I sat there sweating out all my stresses. A few people did also get in and out, but once they left, I was just there, in total bliss. And then… I may or may not have fallen asleep. The moral of the story: Don't plan on doing anything immediately after the sauna.
Swimming pool [outdoor] was my favorite. I mean, a Pool with view!?! Who am I to deny myself such pleasures? I spent an unhealthy amount of time just floating, staring at the sky. The pool was big enough to swim laps, and I had a couple of cocktails while at it, which did make me question my sanity at some point.
The Fitness center/gym/fitness? Uh, yeah, I saw it. I made a mental note to go. But, the massage just kept calling my name. You know, priorities.
I didn't get a Foot bath, so I'll have to try that next time.
Cleanliness and Safety: Did They Actually Clean Anything?
This is important, especially in the current climate. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Rooms sanitized between stays, Professional-grade sanitizing services… They seemed to be taking it pretty seriously. I saw staff constantly cleaning, and the whole place felt clean. The Hand sanitizer was plentiful, and I appreciated the Cashless payment service.
Now, this is a plus, the Breakfast takeaway service was a lifesaver! Being able to quickly grab something and run was super convenient.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Buffet, the Good, the Confusing
Okay, let's talk food. The Breakfast [buffet] was…well, it was a buffet. Let's just say there was a Buffet in restaurant. Lots of options, and I did get to enjoy the Western breakfast. I think they may have had other breakfasts, but I don't remember. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was always brewing, which is a must in my books.
They do have restaurants, but the one I tried was on the slower side. A la carte in restaurant, and the food was pretty decent, nothing that would blow your mind, but it was tasty.
The Poolside bar was my favorite. I've got to admit, the cocktails were pretty good.
The Snack bar was a welcome feature. I wish they had Soup in restaurant or more options.
Asian cuisine in restaurant, or Vegetarian restaurant options, might've been there, but I don't remember, I was too busy.
Services and Conveniences: The Good, the Bad, and the "Huh?"
This section's a bit of a mixed bag.
Concierge: They were helpful. Not mind-blowingly helpful, but they got the job done.
Food delivery: Great!
Doorman: Never saw them, but maybe they were efficient.
Dry cleaning: Excellent.
Laundry service: Excellent.
Daily housekeeping: Spot on!
Meeting/banquet facilities & meetings: Great for business if you need to.
Invoice provided: Always appreciate clarity.
CCTV in common areas and outside property: Good for security.
Elevator: (see Accessibility above)
Car park [free of charge]: Saved me a small fortune. Woohoo!
Car park [on-site]: Convenient, and a much-needed amenity.
For the Kids: Did They Forget About Them?
I didn't see any kids. Not a single one. So, the Babysitting service might be handy. But I didn't see Kids facilities or Kids meal. They may have them, but I'd call ahead if you're traveling with little ones.
Available in all rooms:
- Air conditioning: Essential.
- Alarm clock: Needed.
- Bathrobes: Nice touch.
- Bathroom phone: Why?!
- Bathtub: Great for relaxing.
- Blackout curtains: Saved my life.
- Coffee/tea maker: Good!
- Daily housekeeping: Essential.
- Desk: Needed.
- Extra long bed: Needed.
- Hair dryer: Needed.
- In-room safe box: Great!
- Internet access – wireless: Good!
- Ironing facilities: Good!
- Laptop workspace: Good!
- Linens: Good!
- Mini bar: Always nice to have.
- Non-smoking: Essential.
- On-demand movies: Great!
- Private bathroom: Always nice to have.
- Reading light: Needed!
- Refrigerator: Good!
- Satellite/cable channels: Great!
- Seating area: Needed.
- Shower: Needed.
- Smoke detector: Essential.
- Socket near the bed: Needed!
- Soundproofing: A lifesaver.
- Telephone: Needed.
- Toiletries: Amazing.
- Towels: Amazing.
- Wake-up service: Amazing.
- Wi-Fi [free]: Essential!
My Final Verdict:
Escape to Peoria: Your Perfect Extended Stay Awaits! is… a solid option. It's not perfect. It has quirks (and the accessibility could be improved). But, I had a relaxing time. Would I return? Maybe. I'd just triple-check the accessibility situation before booking again. And I'd definitely stock up on my own snacks. All and all; it's a good stay, but nothing to go crazy about.
Escape to Akron: Luxurious Stow Courtyard Marriott Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's perfectly-manicured itinerary. We're diving headfirst into the glorious mess that is a trip to Peoria, Illinois, specifically bunking down at the Extended Stay America Select Suites – the North Peoria one, mind you. Because apparently, even Peoria has a north and a south. My life.
Day 1: Arrival & The Great Fridge Heist of '23
Time: 1:00 PM - Arrive at Greater Peoria Regional Airport (PIA). Ugh, airports. They always promise a smooth start and deliver…well, let's just say there was a frantic hunt for the rental car, involving me yelling "WHERE ARE THE KEYS, YOU MAGNIFICENT PIECE OF METAL?!" at the air. Success! Eventually.
Time: 2:30 PM - Check into Extended Stay. Okay, first impressions? It's… functional. Let's be honest, it's a hotel room. I'm trying to lower my expectations, so I don't end up screaming at a dust bunny later. The free Wi-Fi better work. Pray for the Wi-Fi.
Time: 3:00 PM - Unpack. Well, attempt to unpack. Bags explode everywhere. The bathroom mirror is definitely seeing a tired version of me. I’m already starting to question my life choices.
Time: 3:30 PM - Fridge Reconnaissance. This, my friends, is crucial. First, I have to figure out if the fridge is actually keeping things cold i.e. are the snacks I brought going to be a hot, sweaty mess or the delicious comfort food that I craved on a red eye flight? After a short and intense moment of desperation, the fridge works. Score! I mean, it's a fridge, but still a win.
Time: 4:00 PM - Attempt to Conquer the TV. It's not working. It's always something! After a twenty-minute mental battle with the remote, I finally get it sorted. And by "sorted" I mean I accidentally tuned into a channel that plays back-to-back cheesy sitcoms. Sigh. This is my life now.
Time: 5:00 PM - Dinner Recon. Time to scope out the local food scene. Google Maps assures me there's a Chili's nearby. I am in no way judging this. We all need a good dose of familiarity.
Time: 6:00 PM - Dinner at Chili's. The food was decent, albeit utterly predictable. The waiter forgot my drink. I’m too tired to complain. This trip is already testing me to my limits.
Time: 8:00 PM - Back to the hotel. Collapsed on the bed, still half-dressed. This trip is already going better than expected.
Day 2: Embracing the Peoria Vibe (Or, Trying To)
Time: 8:00 AM - Wake up. Disoriented. Where am I? Oh, right, Peoria. The land of… well, I'm still figuring that out.
Time: 8:30 AM - Breakfast. The hotel breakfast is “complimentary” Which could mean anything, including a vague promise of stale bagels and questionable coffee. I opted for the bagel, hoping it’s not an insult.
Time: 9:30 AM - Decide to take a walk. Fresh air! Sunlight! Maybe I can find a nice park.
Time: 10:00 AM - Fail miserably. This is not a walking town, at least not in this area of Peoria. The sidewalks end abruptly. Cars whizz by. I retreat back to the safety of the hotel.
Time: 10:30 AM - Museum Time! I saw a sign, and decided a dose of culture would be good. The Peoria Riverfront Museum is nearby, so I guess I'm going! After some time wandering around, contemplating the existence of art is exhausting, and I feel the urge to take a nap, but I am not ready to admit defeat.
Time: 2:00 PM - Lunch. I can't remember where I grabbed lunch…some local place… the food was pretty good. I think. Maybe? I was too distracted by the sheer ordinariness of it all, which, I realize, is part of the charm.
Time: 3:00 PM - More "relaxing" at the hotel. I attempt to read a book. Immediately fall asleep. Wake up an hour later, startled by my own snoring. I’m beginning to feel like a cartoon character.
Time: 6:00 PM - Dinner? I am so conflicted. Another chain? Should I be exploring? I am so out of energy.
Time: 8:00 PM - Bed. Seriously. I am done.
Day 3: The Grand Finale (Maybe)
Time: 8:00 AM - Wake up. Wonder if I'm still in Peoria. Assess. Yep. Still here. Sigh.
Time: 9:00 AM - Decide to leave. I realize I have a flight to catch.
Time: 9:30 AM - Check out. The front desk person stares at me. "Did you have a pleasant stay?" she asks robotically. "It was… an experience," I reply honestly. I think she's slightly confused.
Time: 10:00 AM - Drive to airport. Smooth sailing, thankfully.
Time: 11:00 AM - Drop off rental car. The rental car guy is probably wondering why I look so tired at 11am.
Time: 12:00 PM - Flight. Goodbye, Peoria! You were… something. You certainly were.
Alright, that's my "itinerary." It's not glamorous. It's not perfect. It's me, navigating life, one slightly disappointing experience at a time. And hey, maybe that's the best way to travel. Embrace the mess, the boredom, the utter lack of amazing Instagram-worthy moments. You might just find something real in the process. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to take a nap.
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Escape to Peoria: Your (Maybe Slightly Chaotic) Guide to Extended Stays!
So, Peoria. Really? Is it... *Peoria*?
Okay, look, I get it. Peoria. The name probably conjures images of, well, let’s just say *not* the most exciting place on Earth. And honestly? Sometimes, you’re right! But hear me out. I recently did an extended stay there, and it was… an experience. Let’s just say it wasn't what I expected. You know, like that time I tried to make a soufflé and it resembled a deflated balloon. Peoria’s like that, sometimes. It's got its ups and downs. You're definitely not going to mistake it for Paris, but it has its own weird charm. And the more I soaked it in, the more I found myself kind of… liking it? Don't tell anyone I said that. It might ruin my reputation.
What's the deal with extended stays? Like, why Peoria? Is it work? Therapy? Witness Protection? Spill!
Alright, alright, I'll confess. I was there for a gig. A long, drawn-out gig. Think of it like those marathon running events your neighbor keeps training for, but instead of a medal, I got a paycheck and probably a few more gray hairs. Now, why Peoria? Honestly? It's where the project *was*. Don't overthink it. It wasn't some grand scheme to escape from the world. Although, let's be real, sometimes the thought crossed my mind. Maybe it was a blessing in disguise, a forced reset button on my life.
Okay, accommodation-wise. What *should* I expect? (And what *shouldn't* I expect?)
Hotels, Extended Stay hotels, apartments, or maybe the couch of someone you randomly met at a bar? Well, it depends on your budget, and your sanity levels! But for a proper extended stay? I recommend doing your research. Don't make the same mistake I did, which was booking the first place I saw. It had a "continental breakfast" that looked suspiciously like yesterday's leftovers. Think about a kitchen, a decent internet connection (essential for, you know, not losing your mind), and laundry. Laundry is *key*. Trust me. You'll want to pack light. Especially if your budget's on the strict side!
One place I stayed at proudly boasted, "Free Wi-Fi!" Turns out, it was free in the sense that it was as reliable as a politician's promise. Plan B involved a lot of squinting at my phone and tethering! And don't expect a spa. Peoria may have its quirky, underappreciated charm, but a luxury spa experience isn't generally a part of it. Although, one time I did find a seriously awesome massage therapist! It was a lifeline after a particularly stressful day.
Food! What about the food scene? Will I survive on burgers and gas station hot dogs?
Listen, I'm a foodie. I *need* my food. I can't subsist on sadness and desperation! And thank goodness, because while Peoria isn't exactly known for its Michelin-starred restaurants, it does have some hidden gems if you know where to look. I found this amazing BBQ joint with the most killer ribs. Seriously, I considered moving in. And there's a diner that made the most amazing omelets. They made me forget what time it was. And don't get me started on the local bakeries. My waistline will never forgive me. I even found a local farmer's market. It was a nice contrast to the corporate world I usually work in.
But yes, there are burgers. There are gas station hot dogs. Embrace it. Sometimes, after a long day, a greasy burger is exactly what the doctor ordered. Just don't make it your *only* meal. Trust me, your arteries will thank you. Pro-tip: Ask locals! They know the secret spots. I got some incredible recommendations just by chatting with the guy behind the counter at the local hardware store. It's all about seeking advice from the right people.
So, what did you actually *do* in Peoria? Besides eat ribs and avoid the sad breakfast buffet?
Beyond eating? Well, the work, of course. But let's be real, that’s not exactly the stuff of interesting stories. I explored. Sometimes. I discovered the Riverfront Museum. Seriously, it's surprisingly impressive. Who knew Peoria had a world-class art collection? Definitely check it out. I also wandered the local parks. Great for clearing your head and pretending you're not stuck in a hotel room for an extended period of time.
I saw some live music. The local music scene is surprisingly vibrant. You might discover your new favorite band. I found this tiny club. I kept returning regularly. It was almost therapeutic. I got lost in the little things too. Like, the change of seasons. The way the light hits the river at sunset. The way the local squirrels clearly knew they could get away with anything. And then there's the people. They're... well, let's say *interesting*. You meet all sorts. Some awesome, some weird, some that you avoid at all costs. But hey, that's life, right?
Any specific stories? The juicy stuff! Dish!
Okay, okay, you want the dirt? Fine. There was this one time... Okay, this is gonna get personal. And a little embarrassing. So, I was feeling down one day (after, like, a particularly soul-crushing work meeting!). I decided to go for a walk. Just to clear my head. Ended up in this park, trying to feed a goose. I'm not sure why, I just wanted to do something nice. Turns out, geese are not fans of unsolicited feeding attempts. This goose, it totally went for me! I'm talking full-on honking, wing-flapping attack. I ran. Straight into a tree. Mortifying. Absolutely mortifying. I’m pretty sure the entire park witnessed my utter defeat at the hands (or wings?) of a goose. And you know what? It kind of snapped me out of it. I was laughing at myself later. You have to embrace those defeats. And maybe avoid geese.
What's the biggest lesson you learned from your extended stay in Peoria?
For me? Two things. First, manage expectations. Peoria isn't the perfect escape. You gotta embrace the imperfect. You gotta find the beauty in the mundane. Secondly? Pack more snacks. Seriously. Being a bit prepared can go a long way for your sanity. And finally: If you can survive Peoria, you can survive anything. It's not for the faint of heart, but it's an experience. And sometimes, that's all you really need. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go find a bakery. My goose-related trauma requires significant pastry therapy.
Would you... go back?
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