My husband and I stayed in this charming hotel for eleven nights. Though we were initially disappointed to find the Marriott properties near the convention center fully booked, we were completely won over by the brilliant staff and the unique beauty of this historic property. Despite having over 200 rooms, the hotel is reminiscent of some of our favorite small boutique hotels in San Francisco, Europe, and the UK. This is unlike any other Courtyard in which either of us have stayed, partly because of the uniqueness of the building itself, but largely because of the excellent staff. For the duration of our stay, at all hours, nearly every staff member we encountered was warm, friendly and helpful.

Having arrived late, we dined in the bar the night we arrived. Our meal was very good and the service excellent. We also had drinks in the bar some evenings and thought the atmosphere congenial and relaxing.

We had the full breakfast buffet a few times and found it a good value. The omelets (made to order) and fresh fruit were first rate, and the coffee was excellent. There was a reasonable selection of milks, yogurts, cereals, and breads (though the quality of the bread & pastries could be improved). As is the case at any buffet, the hot items were a bit soggy if they'd not recently been brought out from the kitchen.

Our suite was spacious and spotless. The bed was comfortable, and having a mini-bar and microwave was lovely for a long stay (there's a Ralph's grocery store approximately four blocks away).

The hotel offers free internet access (wired in rooms, wireless in lobby), a nice gym, and excellent complimentary coffee in the lobby (in the morning only).

The hotel is located roughly eight blocks from the convention center, an easy walk for most people. It's about the same distance to the Maritime Museum. Balboa Park is a bit further away, and the park itself is quite large, so people with small children may wish to take a cab.

One can find homeless people, buskers, pan handlers, and drunken conventioneers in the center of any large city in the world. San Diego is no different. I walked to and from the hotel day and night, alone and with my husband and never felt unsafe or threatened. As one reviewer said, just use your city skills, to which I'd add use common sense, remain alert, and expect to have a wonderful visit!

We can't wait to return to San Diego next year. When we do, we'll definitely stay at this hotel.