Have you ever considered reserving a place you haven't visited and then exploring the area around you? Recently, I did just that, for I had no understanding of Irvine, California. I accepted the Hyatt Regency Irvine invitation and marked it on my calendar for a visit.
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Irvine, California, is located 92 miles from Palm Springs. Thus, it can be a day trip for Palm Springs peeps. However, after reading my review of the area and hotel, I hope I entice you to stay and explore. Since I enjoy the backroads more than highway driving, I took Highway 79 from Beaumont—a beautiful drive any time of the year.
Arriving at the Hyatt Regency Irvine
We were warned that refurbishing and enhancements were still in process and that the entrance would more than likely have construction happening. However, it was apparent where we should park for registration. We stopped, and a staff member was there, ready to guide us to the registration.
As you walk into the entrance of the Hyatt Regency Irvine, a relaxing, contemporary lounge area, complete with a fireplace, welcomes you as you want through the doors. I would be remiss if I didn't mention the gigantic chandler suspended over the area.
With the key to our room, we headed up to our room on the glass elevator, giving one an understanding of the construction in the entrance, which is bound to be stunning based on what we could see.
Our Room Was Fabulous
Opening the door, we found ourselves in a living room-like setting. The full-length glass windows revealed an expansive patio with a table and four chairs. On the other side of the patio, you can sit on a lovely chair and enjoy the quiet of the morning.
Inside the living room area was a lovely sofa bed. Nearby was a lamp with a shelf constructed, so it also had a phone charger pad. A large television was on the wall, creating the perfect place to sit and eat our snacks. Well, okay, enjoy our cocktail, too.
The room was very spacious, with queen-sized beds. Behind the headboard, the interior designer had created a brilliant design element. The wall was covered with dark blue and white design wallpaper, so there was no need to add wall art.
It was a delightful first for me to experience in a hotel—when you got out of bed in the middle of the night, and your feet hit the floor, a dim light lit the way for your trip to the nearby bathroom. I smiled when it quickly went off, and I crawled back into bed with the luxurious linens.
Other Rooms
Kids Suite at the Hyatt Regency Irvine
Most of us have traveled with children. Frankly, the Kids Suite is a dream place for parents who want to have a little space for themselves. One area of the Suite has bunk beds and a separate room for the adults in the family. With a door closed the children have their own space to watch TV and play games.
Extended Stay Suite
Since several Fortune 100 Tech Corporations surround the hotel, the Hyatt Regency Irvine provides accommodations that work well for longer-term stays. It has a kitchenette—a small casita-like space with all the necessary amenities.
Of course, there are other rooms in different configurations. Frankly, seeing the thought put into the design was very impressive, so any traveler's needs have been considered.
The Market Place
If I have ever been impressed with something, it is the Market at the Hyatt Regency Irvine. This expansive area has the following:
· Fresh fruit juice and smoothies
· An array of baked goods, including cookies for the late-night munchies.
· Groundwork Coffee in a variety of blends
· Omelets are made to order.
· Evenings: Enticing salads and sandwiches
· Grab-and-Go Meals
· Craft Beers, wine, and cocktails in bottles and cans (I can attest to the fact they are excellent)
Then, if you do not need food immediately, check out the retail shelves. All the items are locally sourced, so you won't see the usual big brands. Oh my, zebra popcorn is more than addictive. Also, if you forget some travel supplies, you will find a display of everything from tweezers to sleeping pills.
Finally, there is a self-checkout for your items for those on the go and hurrying to get to our airplane or off to a meeting. By the way, a full-service, farm-to-table restaurant will open this Summer.
Pool Oasis
The revamped pool area will open this Summer. Picture yourself lying in your swimming suit on a warm summer night with a cocktail in hand, watching a movie on the gigantic screen. Or maybe you want quiet time around a firepit or just relaxing in one of the cabanas. Nearby, the children are enjoying the water slides.
Meeting Space
If I haven't convinced you to bring your family to the Hyatt Regency Irvine, another option is to plan a conference or a corporate meeting at this grand hotel. Personally, I cannot imagine a meeting need that cannot be met here with the enormity of the meeting spaces and the gracious help of highly attentive staff.
Yes, you can tell I was impressed with the Hyatt Regency Irvine. The final changes have yet to be completed, but my stay was outstanding. One more thing, the hotel is two miles from the John Wayne Airport. However, as I mentioned, it is an easy drive from Palm Springs, making it a great getaway.
Kathy Condon is a Journalist, Travel Writer, and Award-winning Author. Her niche is luxury experiences communities living in the shadows of large cities, and she enjoys writing about hidden gems. www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com 760-902-3094 Kathy@kathycondon.net About
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