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| - Yes, the Valley Ho is as retro cool as ever. And a good thing, too, since I had to convince my boyfriend to stay here.
He, like Donald S., loved how we felt we'd stepped out of the WABAC Machine into the 1960s--only I'm not sure if he thought he was Sherman or Mr. Peabody.
Service was smooth from the moment the valets opened our doors, at registration, and as we were shown to our room in one of the outer buildings. The studio guest room was crazy cool, with a Philippe Starck bathtub in the center and a martini-making station prepped for cocktail hour. I especially enjoyed the private patio that overlooked a peaceful greenspace surrounded by orange trees and tropical plants, and I spent a lot of time lounging on the double chaise.
For a holiday weekend, the property was surprisingly quiet, so my boyfriend and I spent a lot of time soaking in the atmosphere and relaxing in our room. When our friends visited, we explored the rest of the property, including the spa, gym, and, of most importance to him, the lounge. There are several seating areas, including by the fireplace off the lobby; the small, sunny courtyard near the entrance; and the lounge proper, with the bar. All are great places to hang out with friends and have a drink while listening to Frank crooning in the background.
Overall we loved our stay and rolled with a few minor issues. There were some lackadaisical gaffes made by housekeeping, but we also loved how quick the front desk was in removing an overcharge for valet service without question. But, having stayed here when there were more guests, I know this place can get a little rowdy, even though it wasn't our experience this time. However, on the Saturday night we were there, we were kept up by the live music carrying over from Trader Vic's just across the parking lot. If you are sensitive to noise at all, you should probably ask for an upper-floor room (rooms are not carpeted) and think about staying in the main building.
Too soon, after a wonderful Sunday brunch outdoors at the hotel's Cafe ZuZu, it was time to go. "Sherman--umm, Kevin--let us tally-ho from the Valley Ho. Next stop: North Scottsdale."
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