A fateful beginning, yet wonderful ending!
In August 2007 I embarked on a trip Southern California that was to be filled with new and exciting adventures. Being from the Midwest (specifically Ohio), I was so excited for all that this trip would hold, having never been to San Diego or California! So I packed my bags, headed west and arrived in Los Angeles. The first adventure was to see a theatre performance where one of my childhood friends had garnered a lead role. From there, I would drive with another friend to San Diego to spend the weekend and take in all that the city had to offer. Still being a college student of meager means, my trip had been frugally planned out in advance and every detail looked after – so I thought. Keep in mind that I’m very tired after a cross country plane ride, sitting through a theatre performance and car trip from Los Angeles to San Diego with a few minor delays; a soft, clean bed was much needed! That was not what was waiting. Much to my surprise, the hotel that I had booked was under remodel and the room that I was provided was unkempt to put it mildly. Although I desperately needed sleep – I couldn’t subject myself or my friend to those conditions. Frantically (and with much agitation I must admit) I called information and requested the names of hotels within a reasonable distance. I was provided with 5 or 6 suggestions, all of which I called and was advised that all had no availability, except the last one. I decided, it is harder to say no face to face, so I’ll go in and speak with someone! At the counter the young lady was extremely apologetic and advised that she had no available rooms. Me being the frustrated and burdened traveler asked “Fine, how much will you charge my friend and I to sleep on the couches in your lobby?” The young lady saw that I was clearly distraught and went to work. She took my name ,then provided me with a street map, said you have a reservation here and sent me on my way. Imagine my shock and surprise when we arrived at the US Grant Hotel! I was awe struck! Upon entering the hotel at 3am in the morning, we were greeted by the most courteous and helpful staff, that to this day I have ever encountered. Since graduating college and obtaining my most recent position I travel often and still have not received the caliber of service that I received at the US Grant. The young lady at the counter made sure that our every need was attended to and no request was to great! The rooms were phenomenal! Any feelings of exhaustion were overtaken by our excitement to be in such an incredibly beautiful & historic place and to have been treated with such kindness! It was truly a wonderful ending to what can only be described as a fateful beginning! We look forward to future trips and want to extend a GRATEFUL & SINCERE THANK YOU! Congratulations on 100 Years!!! Brandon Moore
