Coeur d'Alene Getaway: IHG's Hidden Gem Near I-90!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into Coeur d'Alene Getaway: IHG's Hidden Gem Near I-90! and, frankly, I'm already a little obsessed. Forget polished travel brochures; we're going for the nitty-gritty, the "did-I-leave-my-toothbrush-at-home?" kind of realness.
The Basics (and why they actually matter): Accessibility, Safety, and (Thankfully) Wi-Fi!
First off, let's address the elephant in the room: Accessibility. This is HUGE. I've stayed in places that say they're accessible, but then I'm navigating a minefield of cobblestones and tiny elevators. Coeur d'Alene Getaway claims to have Facilities for disabled guests and Elevator, which is a huge plus. Then there is Car park [free of charge] and Car park [on-site]. Having a place to park is always a plus!
Now, about safety. We're living in… well, let's just say it's a world where you definitely want a good hotel. Coeur d'Alene Getaway boasts Security [24-hour], CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour], Smoke alarms. That's a solid foundation of protection. CCTV in common areas. makes me feel safe, always a plus.
And the internet? OH. MY. GOD. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Internet access – wireless, Internet access – LAN… You're practically guaranteed a connection! Honestly, Wi-Fi is the unsung hero of modern travel. I can't live without it. I mean, how else am I going to post my Instagram stories of my travels, look for other things to do, or check the status of my flight?
Rooms: Where You Actually Live (and Whether They're Clean Enough to Breathe In)
Alright, let's talk rooms. They've got the usual suspects: Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
Listen, the Blackout curtains are a LIFESAVER. I need total darkness to sleep. I can't be the only one. Then, the Coffee/tea maker… a MUST. Instant coffee in the morning? Yes, please. The Refrigerator is also amazing when it comes to keeping your drinks cold. If you like a little bit of luxury, the Bathtub is also a good choice!
Now, the big question: Cleanliness and safety. Coeur d'Alene Getaway is taking this seriously, which is fantastic. They're touting Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Individually-wrapped food options, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment. It's the kind of detail that makes you breathe a sigh of relief and, you know, relax. Room sanitization opt-out available.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Because You Can't Live on Room Service Alone (Sadly)
Okay, let's get real. Hotel food can be…iffy. But Coeur d'Alene Getaway offers a decent spread! They've got A la carte in restaurant, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Bottle of water, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant.
I, for one, am immediately dreaming of the Poolside bar. Picture this: I'm lounging by the Swimming pool [outdoor], drink in hand, soaking up the sun. Bliss! The Room service [24-hour] is also perfect if you're like me and end up working late.
Things to Do and Ways to Relax: Spa Day, Anyone?
This is where Coeur d'Alene Getaway really shines. They have Body scrub, Body wrap, Fitness center, Foot bath, Gym/fitness, Massage, Pool with view, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor].
Let me tell you a story. I once went on a trip where the hotel promised a spa. It was, shall we say, less than stellar. The "massage" was more of a gentle pat-down, and the sauna felt like a humid closet. This place looks like the real deal. I'm practically drooling at the thought of a Massage and Spa. And a Pool with view? Sold! Then of course we have, the Fitness center and Gym/fitness always a plus to get you moving!
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Make a Big Difference
They get points for having an Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center.
Contactless check-in? YES, please. This takes the stress out of any trip.
For the Kids (and those of us who are kids at heart)
Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal. Look, I'm not a parent, but I know that when families are happy, everyone's happy. This makes places family-friendly.
Getting Around.
Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, Valet parking.
Getting around is an ease!
The Verdict: Should You Book?
Okay, here's the unvarnished truth: Coeur d'Alene Getaway looks pretty dang promising. It's ticking all the right boxes: great location (near I-90!), safety, accessibility, decent food options, and, most importantly, a proper spa. It seems like a solid choice for a relaxing getaway, a working retreat, or a family vacation.
My Inner Critic's Whispers:
Look, no place is perfect. I'm sure there are minor imperfections. The coffee might not be the best (I'm ridiculously picky about coffee). Maybe the pillows are too fluffy. Maybe the pool is a little crowded during peak season. But even my cynical side is giving this place a thumbs up. It's a gamble, sure, but it's a gamble I'd be happy to take.
The Call to Action (aka, the Offer You Can't Refuse)
Getaway to Coeur d'Alene - Your Stress-Free Escape Awaits!
Here's the deal: Book your stay at Coeur d'Alene Getaway today and get a FREE upgrade to a room with a view (subject to availability)! Plus, snag a 20% discount on all spa treatments. We're talking massages, body wraps, and all the pampering you deserve! Use code "HIDDENGEM20" when booking.
Don't wait! This offer is only valid for a limited time. Book your Coeur d'Alene Getaway now and prepare to be utterly wowed. You deserve it, and frankly, so do I. Let's go!
Radisson Baku: Luxury Awaits in Azerbaijan's Stunning Capital
Okay, buckle up buttercups. Here's a travel itinerary, or more accurately, a journey through the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Coeur D'Alene I-90 Exit 11, by IHG, because let's be real, life is messy and I’m embracing it.
Day 1: Arrival, Mild Chaos, and the Quest for the Holy Waffle
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at Spokane International Airport (GEG). The flight was… well, it was a flight. Let's just say the guy in front of me reeked of industrial strength cheese puffs. Deplaned, collected my bag (which thankfully arrived intact, a small miracle these days), and rented a car. The rental agent tried to upsell me on a "premium SUV" which, let's be honest, screamed "I need to impress someone I don't actually like." Firmly declined. I’m going for comfortable, not ostentatious.
- 1:45 PM: The drive to Coeur d'Alene. Gorgeous, naturally. Mountain views, pines, the whole shebang. I spent most of it mentally composing a strongly worded email to the cheese puff enthusiast.
- 2:30 PM: Check-in at the Holiday Inn Express. The front desk staff, bless their hearts, were lovely. Efficient, friendly, and didn't bat an eye when I accidentally dropped a rogue granola bar, scattering bits of oat-y deliciousness across the immaculate marble floor. (Note to self: Pack a small vacuum cleaner. Or, you know, learn to eat like a civilized human.)
- 3:00 PM: Unpacking and settling in. The room is… fine. Clean, functional, a little beige-heavy, but hey, it has a comfy bed. Crucial. I'm not looking for a design magazine cover here. Just a place to collapse.
- 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM: The Waffle Search Begins. Okay, this is serious. I've heard tales of the legendary free breakfast at this particular Holiday Inn Express. Specifically, the waffle maker. I envisioned golden perfection, crispy edges, a fluffy interior… The reality? The waffle batter dispenser was spewing half-formed globs. My first attempt resembled a misshapen hockey puck. Dejected. I decided to drown my sorrows in the lukewarm coffee.
- 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Wandering around the hotel premises. The gym is small, but functional. Someone was using the treadmill and their choice of music playlist was… aggressive. Lots of heavy metal and a disturbing lack of consideration for my peace of mind. I decided to get out of there and wandered over to the outdoor pool and hot tub area. The sun was setting and it was a beautiful view.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at a generic chain restaurant. I know, I know, it's a travel sin. But I was hungry! And the menu promised comfort food. The service was slow, the food was lukewarm, and I spent the meal battling the urge to re-enter the hotel for another attempt at waffle perfection.
- 8:00 PM: Back at the hotel room. Decided to watch some TV. The cable channels were awful. So many reality shows and the endless repeats of Law & Order.
- 9:00 PM: Another waffle attempt. This time, a slightly better result. Edges were still a little wonky, but I consider it a triumph. Ate them with a side of fruit, and felt a little victorious after the trials of the day.
- 10:00 PM: Sleep. Or at least, I tried. A late-night snorer in the next room made it a challenge. Also, I think I heard a faint, mournful cry coming from the waffle maker. Perhaps it also suffered from the failures of the day.
Day 2: Lake Coeur d'Alene, Emotional Rollercoasters, and a Potential Breakfast Breakthrough
- 7:00 AM: Breakfast. Third time's the charm? Miraculous. The waffle maker was working! I achieved something I considered near perfection… golden, crispy, and with the perfect amount of syrup. Victory! I basked in the glory of my waffle-related triumph.
- 8:00 AM: Drive to Lake Coeur d'Alene. Holy moly, it's stunning. Crystal-clear water, mountains, trees… The "postcard" photos don't even do it justice. I'm not usually one for nature, but this was kind of breathtaking.
- 9:00 AM: Boat tour on the lake. Ok, so the commentary was a little cheesy, and the other tourists were a loud bunch, but still it was worth it. The lake is ginormous. It’s filled with beautiful houses, and on the lake, I saw the floating green. The green's a golf course. It was kind of bizarre.
- 11:00 AM: Lunch at a lakeside cafe. Overpriced, but the view! Ordered a rather pathetic salad – trying to be healthy, you know. And failed.
- 12:00 PM: Wandering downtown. Went to a few shops. A particular bookstore where I got lost. It was a nice respite from the endless chains of the hotel.
- 1:00 PM: Decided to sit on a park bench and people-watch. Fascinating. Saw a couple on an awkward date, a toddler throwing a tantrum, and a dog who looked profoundly unimpressed with the world. The dog resonated with me.
- 2:00 PM: Drive to the trailhead and hiked through the forest. The air was crisp and the trees were a calming presence. At one point, a squirrel seemed to mock me for being out of shape. Rude.
- 4:00 PM: Back at the hotel. Collapse. The hike, the lake, the incessant need to find the perfect waffle… It all took it out of me.
- 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Contemplated ordering room service. Got too lazy. Decided to try and find a restaurant.
- 6:00 PM: Ate at one of the restaurants recommended by the hotel staff. It was okay. Definitely better than Day 1's chain. The staff was nice.
- 8:00 PM: Waffle-making attempt number?… Not sure. It was a success. It has become a goal of mine this trip.
- 9:00 PM: More TV.
- 10:00 PM: Bedtime. The snorer's still at it. Earplugs are my new best friend.
Day 3: Departure, Reflections, and the Legacy of the Waffle
- 7:00 AM: Breakfast. Waffle time! It's been a long time and I was hungry.
- 8:00 AM: Checkout. Quick and easy. The staff were super helpful.
- 8:30 AM: Drive back to the airport. Contemplation of my trip. I enjoyed myself even more than I thought. I had hoped for a fun trip and got it.
- 9:00 AM: Drop off the rental car.
- 10:00 AM: Airport security. Everything on schedule.
- 11:00 AM: Flight. The plane takes off the airport. I am going home at last.
- 12:00 PM: Arrive home.
Conclusion:
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Coeur D'Alene. It wasn't perfect and far from it. It was messy, and had moments of greatness. An imperfect, and yet, very human experience. Will I return? Maybe. Especially if they guarantee perfect waffles. And maybe, just maybe, I'll finally perfect my own Waffle-making skills.
**Burton's BEST Hotel? Holiday Inn Express Review & Secret Deals!**
Coeur d'Alene Getaway: IHG's "Hidden Gem" - Yeah, Right. (Or Maybe?) FAQ. Buckle Up.
Okay, spill it. What's the *actual* deal with Coeur d'Alene Getaway? Is it a secret paradise or just another roadside motel with a fancy name?
Alright, alright, fine. Let's be real. "Hidden Gem" is a *bit* generous. It's not some untouched, pristine wonderland. It's an IHG property, right off I-90. That means you've got your predictable consistency, which honestly? Sometimes, that's what I *crave* after a long drive. The rooms are… well, they're clean. The beds, usually comfy enough to collapse into. The "hidden" part? I think they just mean it's not *directly* visible from the interstate, unless you squint. (And maybe have really good eyesight). So, paradise? Nah. Reliable and convenient for a pit stop/overnight? Absolutely. But I'll admit, I've seen some… interesting… car-camping setups in the parking lot. Makes you wonder about the clientele, doesn't it?
What's the location like? Is it actually *near* Coeur d'Alene Lake? Because, marketing, you know…
Yep, it's... near. You're not *on* the lake. Don't get your hopes up for that. You'll have to drive a bit. (And by "a bit," I mean like, a reasonable amount of time. Enough to enjoy the scenery, assuming you're not white-knuckling it with road rage. Because, you know, traffic). The lake *is* beautiful, though. Seriously. Worth the drive. I remember one time, I was dragging kids, and we *finally* made it to McEuen Park. Took approximately three wrong turns and a near-meltdown from both of us (the kids and me). But then, the view! Pure bliss. So yeah, the Getaway isn't lakefront lux, but the proximity is… acceptable. Just don't expect to roll out of bed and be paddling a kayak.
Okay, the rooms. Tell me *everything*. Are they fresh and modern, or is it all dated floral patterns and questionable air circulation?
The rooms… okay, here's the deal: They’re clean. And the beds, like I said, usually reasonably comfortable. This isn't the Ritz, okay? Don't expect marble bathrooms and butler service. I’ve seen some hotels where the carpets look like they’ve absorbed a decade of mysteries. This place, they're usually okay. Probably due for a refresh at some point. The decor leans towards "generic comfort," I'd say. Think beige walls, a brown-ish chair, and a vaguely floral print. The air conditioning… well, it *works*. Sometimes. Sometimes you have to fiddle with the thermostat like you’re trying to defuse a bomb to get the right temp. Which, given how tired you are after a long drive, can feel like an actual bomb. Oh! And the Wi-Fi. It. Is. Spotty. Prepare for that or download everything beforehand.
Breakfast: Feast or famine? What's the spread like? Because, let's face it, a good hotel breakfast can make or break the whole experience.
Ah, breakfast. The most crucial meal of any hotel stay. Here’s how it usually goes: There's toast. And bagels. And a waffle maker – which, let's be honest, is the unsung hero of the hotel breakfast world (because everyone loves waffles, even if they won't *admit* it). There's usually some sort of pre-packaged pastry situation. Maybe some sad-looking fruit salad. And the eggs… the eggs are where things get dicey. They’re usually… well, they're eggs. Sometimes they taste like cardboard. Sometimes they're surprisingly okay. It's a gamble, folks. A breakfast lottery. But hey, there's coffee. And that’s the real winner, right? Fuel for the road. One time I tried to make a waffle and burnt it, which felt fitting. I am not a morning person, clearly.
What are the amenities? Pool? Gym? Laundry? Because, a long drive necessitates clean underwear and a chance to work off all those waffle calories.
Okay, pool: YES! Often, it's an indoor pool, which is a HUGE win if you're traveling in, say, February. It's usually… well, a pool. Cleanish, but don't expect Olympic-sized. And the chlorine? Prepare to smell like a swimming pool for the next three days. Gym: *sighs*. It exists. A couple of treadmills, maybe a weight machine or two. Probably more of a "gym-ish" space than a proper gym. Laundry: Yes, thankfully! Because, clean underwear, people! Important. Just bring quarters. And maybe a good book to read while you wait for your socks to dry. And one time I accidentally washed my debit card in the laundry, which was a true low point of my existence. Don't be me. Avoid the laundry-induced bank panic.
Is there anything *unique* about the Coeur d'Alene Getaway? Anything that makes it stand out from the sea of generic hotel options?
That’s a tough one. "Unique"? Hmm… Okay, here's a weird thing: the lighting. It’s… bright. Like, REALLY bright. Sometimes I felt like I was being interrogated. I mean, a well-lit room is good, right? Less chance of tripping over something. But this felt… excessive. And it felt like a *choice*. Another time, there was a group of people parked right outside my window. It seemed like a family reunion, and their laughter was more or less entertaining and distracting. I didn't want to complain, but I *did* wish, for an instant, that my room had soundproofing. Oh, and the staff? They're generally… fine. They're not overly effusive, but they're usually helpful. You know, the "seen-it-all" type of hotel staff. They do their job. And they often have to deal with some real characters checking in. That alone earns them some respect.
Is it pet-friendly? Because my chihuahua, Mr. Bigglesworth III, is a travel essential. (Don't judge.)
Check with the hotel *directly* on this one. Pet policies change, and I am not a travel agent. However, the IHG website *usually* indicates if they're pet-friendly. If they *are*, make sure you bring all the necessary accoutrements for Mr. Bigglesworth III. Bowls, leash, poop bags, the whole shebang. And also, maybe a muzzle, I’m not sure how your Chihuahua behaves.
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