Luxury Getaway? Sharon Springs' Hidden Gem Awaits! (Travelodge Review)
Sharon Springs Showdown: The Travelodge That Almost Won Me Over (and Why It Didn't Quite)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea on a Luxury Getaway in Sharon Springs. Forget the pristine press releases, this is the REAL DEAL review. And let me tell you, the Travelodge here… well, it's a journey. "Hidden Gem" they say? Let's find out if it's sparkling or just buried under a pile of slightly-above-average expectations.
First Impressions: The Arrival & the (Potentially) Good Stuff
Driving into Sharon Springs is like stepping into a movie set. Quaint, charming, and the air smells faintly of… well, let's just say "mineral waters." The Travelodge, with its promised "luxury," is tucked away, and the exterior? Honestly, nothing screams luxury. Think clean, but not particularly wowing. Parking was blessedly easy (free on-site car park! Score one for the budget!).
Accessibility (and the Lack Thereof… Sigh)
- Accessibility: This is where things get a little dicey. The general vibe is… sort of accessible. There's an elevator, which is clutch if you're not up for stairs. But, I'm not sure about fully wheelchair accessibility in many of the rooms, and I REALLY wish I had confirmed this was available directly, as it wasn't perfectly obvious. I'd recommend calling ahead and grilling them on this, because honestly, that is not easy to see whether wheelchairs can get around in rooms.
- Facilities for Disabled Guests: Not immediately evident, need to inquire beforehand. So I'm still wondering about bathrooms, or doors, or anything else.
Rooms: The Good, the Okay, and That Slightly-Damp Feeling
Right, the rooms. What's it like in here? Let's see. I booked a non-smoking room, which was great. Oh! The "extra long bed" was actually a relief. I’m a tall one, and I didn’t kick my feet into anything.
Internet Access Yes! Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! We love that. And it worked, mostly. This is a big deal, so let's focus on this:
- Internet Access – Wireless Yes! Decent speeds for streaming.
- Internet (LAN) There was a LAN port, which is a total throwback. Maybe it was a good thing, too, as the Wi-Fi blipped out a few times.
Amenities: I did enjoy this:
- Coffee/tea maker Yes! Very important! Especially for a morning person.
- Desk, In-room safe box, Ironing facilities, Reading light, Sofa… Yeah, these are all there, and that's a plus.
The Downside:
- Air conditioning: It worked. Maybe a little too well, at first. I had to turn it down.
- Blackout curtains: A BIG win! I slept like a baby.
- Bathroom: Sigh. Clean, but slightly basic. Basic toiletries, but functional.
- That Damp Feeling: I can’t be confident without seeing whether this is a building issue. But now I am kind of paranoid about it.
Cleanliness and Safety: Modern Worries
- COVID-19 Protocols: They tried. Hand sanitizer everywhere, staff wearing masks, and the whole kit and caboodle.
- Anti-viral cleaning products & Rooms sanitized between stays: Good to hear, let’s hope this is true.
- Physical distancing of at least 1 meter: This was difficult to police in hallways, but in general, they were good.
- Safe dining setup: More on that later.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: Seemed to be the case, generally.
- Overall: I generally, felt safe.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food for Thought
Okay, the dining situation is where things got… interesting. Their "restaurants" (plural) weren't really restaurants. More like… areas where food was served.
- Breakfast: Free breakfast! Mostly. Okay, let me tell you about the breakfast.
- Breakfast [buffet] Yes, but more like a limited continental spread. Think bagels, muffins, and some sad-looking fruit.
- Breakfast service & Breakfast takeaway service: Mostly functional. I did manage to grab a muffin and fruit, and it worked.
- Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant: Nonexistent.
- Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant: I would say this is a simplified version, it is mostly ok to a mediocre western breakfast.
- Other Eating Options:
- Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop: I did see, I did drink.
- Poolside bar: Nope.
- Room service [24-hour]: Didn't see it.
- Snack bar: The convenience store was the snack bar.
- Restaurants: Very limited. They were mostly ok.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: What About Relaxation?
Right, here's the kicker. The Travelodge promotes things like "spa," "pool with view" and "fitness center." Let's see:
- Spa/sauna, Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Massage: Absolutely none of these were apparent. It was nothing more than the brochure talking.
- Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor]: Yep, an outdoor pool. It seemed…okay. I did not go in.
- Fitness center, Gym/fitness: Yes, there was a tiny gym. One treadmill. One elliptical. A few weights. It’s not exactly a reason to book a hotel.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things
- Services:
- Air conditioning in public area & Elevator: These are great!
- Cash withdrawal & Currency exchange: I didn’t see either.
- Concierge: Nowhere.
- Convenience store, Food delivery: I saw the convenience store.
- Daily housekeeping: Great.
- Doorman: Nope.
- Laundry service: Yes.
- Luggage storage: It was offered. Yes.
- Safety deposit boxes: Standard.
- Business:
- Meetings, Seminars: Didn't see any.
- Audio-visual equipment for special events, Meeting/banquet facilities, Outdoor/Indoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Wi-Fi for special events: None of them are apparent.
- Xerox/fax in business center: I can’t tell.
For the Kids:
- Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal: Nonexistent.
Getting Around:
- Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, Valet parking: They have free parking!
Overall Impression: The "Hidden" Truth
So, is the Travelodge in Sharon Springs a "luxury getaway?" I'd say… not really. It’s a perfectly serviceable hotel, clean enough, the staff were friendly, the free Wi-Fi was a bonus. But the promised "luxury" felt… well, it felt a bit like the mineral water: a bit diluted. The lack of real amenities, especially the advertised spa, and the minimal dining options, were disappointing.
Quirks, Oddities, and a Rambling Conclusion
Here’s a random observation: the hallways have a very strong fragrance. Like, overwhelmingly strong. I'm not sure if that’s a sign of cleanliness, a poor attempt to mask something, or just a bold design choice.
Another thing: The "shrine" on-site? (Yes folks, that’s listed). I never found it. Would I stay there again? Maybe, if the price was right, and I was just looking for a place to crash.
The Offer: A Sharon Springs Adventure (with a Realistic Twist!)
Okay, here's the deal. This Travelodge has its quirks. But if you're looking for a base camp to explore Sharon Springs, a place with clean rooms and (mostly) functional amenities, and you're not expecting actual luxury, then here's my offer:
Book now and get:
- 10% off your stay! (Because let's be honest, expectations need to be adjusted). Use code "SHARONSPRINGSGETAWAY" at checkout.
- A complimentary bottle of water (you'll need it after the free breakfast!)
- Free Wi-Fi (because… well, duh)
- A chance to explore Sharon Springs! This little town is worth the trip. It reminded me of a sweet and cozy little town.
**This offer is perfect
Orlando's Regal Oaks Resort: Luxury Getaway Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercup, because this isn't your grandma's perfectly-formatted travel itinerary. We're hitting Sharon Springs, Kansas, at the Travelodge by Wyndham, and let's just say… I'm already predicting this is going to be a trip. (Pun absolutely intended.)
Sharon Springs Shenanigans: A Travelodge Tapestry (Or, The Road Trip That Might Actually Kill Me)
Day 1: Arrival and the Existential Dread of the Interstate
- 1:00 PM (ish) - Departure: Alright, folks, the car's packed (read: crammed) and I'm wrestling with the existential dread that always accompanies long-distance driving. Should have taken the RV, but the budget says 'no'. Sigh. I hate packing. I always overpack, then forget half the essentials. Currently, the car is filled with more snacks than actual luggage. Good start.
- 3:00 PM - The Gas Station Gauntlet: Pit stop for a bio break and the mandatory gas station coffee. This is where I assess the level of 'road-tired' in my system. Today, it ranges from "mildly annoyed" to "questioning all life choices." The gas station attendant looked at me like I had three heads when I asked for a decaf. "Decaf? In Kansas?" Bless her heart.
- 6:00 PM - Arrival at the Travelodge (Pray for Me): Okay, here we are. The Travelodge in Sharon Springs. I'm trying not to have high expectations. The photos online… were definitely taken with a generous filter. Hoping the room isn't haunted, or infested with something I haven't encountered yet. The lobby smells vaguely of chlorine and… hope? We'll see.
- 6:30 PM - Check-In and Initial Assessment: Okay, the clerk is friendly, which is a good sign. The room… Well, it exists. It has a bed, a TV that probably works, and a faint musty smell that I'm hoping will dissipate with some aggressive air freshener usage. The view… is a parking lot. This is not a five-star resort, clearly.
- 7:00 PM - Dinner Deliberation (and Deep Sighs): Okay, the dining options in Sharon Springs appear to be limited. My choices are: A fast-food joint (tempting, but my arteries are screaming), some kind of local diner (could be a hidden gem, could be… not), or the terrifying possibility of cooking something myself in the microwave. Microwave. Let's try that diner, as long as they aren't out of coffee.
- 7:30 PM - Diner Dive: Okay, I went to the diner. It was… an experience. The waitress, bless her heart, seemed genuinely happy to see someone. The food was… hearty. I ordered the chicken fried steak. It was roughly the size of my head. I'm fairly certain I could hear my arteries hardening with each bite, but the pie – oh, the pie! Worth every calorie. Worth the probable heart attack.
- 9:00 PM - Room Reconnaissance and Pre-Bedtime Rituals: Back in the room, I've done a thorough check for bed bugs (panic level: medium). I'm trying not to touch anything, especially the blankets. Brushing my teeth with the tiny hotel toothbrush – I'm starting to feel a kinship with a field mouse. Now, the pre-sleep ritual: watching something terrible on TV and hoping I don't have nightmares about the parking lot view. Wish me luck.
Day 2: Exploring Sharon Springs (And My Sanity)
- 7:00 AM - Wake Up and Regret: Hello, world. Another day. Sun's up, but I'm not. I'm regretting the five cups of coffee I had at the diner. Also, I think I felt a bedbug. Nope, false alarm. Probably just the lingering effects of the steak.
- 7:30 AM - The Free Breakfast (of Champions?): Okay, the "continental breakfast" is… Well, it's there. Pre-packaged pastries, instant coffee that tastes suspiciously like dirt, and a single, lonely apple. I'm sticking with the coffee and resisting the lure of the questionable-looking pastry.
- 8:00 AM - Exploring the Heartland: Determined to be a tourist, I bravely venture out. Sharon Springs, I've got you. I visit the local museum… which is charming in a slightly creaky, "time forgot" kind of way. I am impressed at how some small towns have some major stories. The history lessons are excellent, and the local folk are welcoming.
- 12:00 PM - Lunch and the Quest for Wifi: Lunch is the same diner and the struggle for stable wifi. It is going to be a struggle for sure, but the diner coffee is excellent and I feel like I need it to keep my sanity in this dusty little town.
- 2:00 PM - The Open Roads: I get out on the road to see what else the county has to offer, driving through some vast farmland. I realize I am alone on a vast plain. It's a surprisingly emotional experience, and I end up crying, both at the beauty and at my life choices.
- 6:00 PM - Final Travelodge Supper and Contemplation: Back at the Travelodge, I'm trying to decide if I should risk another dinner at the diner or just eat the leftover snacks. The snacks win. I finish the day by watching TV and just… thinking. This trip is weird. But maybe that's the point.
Day 3: Departure and The Long Road Home (with a Side of Existentialism)
- 7:00 AM - The Great Escape: Up early, packed, and mentally prepared for the drive back. All I need is a coffee and to survive.
- 7:30 AM - Check-Out and Good Riddance: Checked out of the Travelodge. No, I did not tip because, well, what for? Said my goodbyes, and I'm officially leaving Sharon Springs!
- 12:00 PM - Long drive and an occasional fit of tears: The trip is beginning again, many miles to go. On the long drive, I will be both missing the small town, and thanking the gods I no longer suffer from the Travelodge. All I have to do is get home…
- 7:00 PM — Home at Last: Back home, unpacking, and already planning the next trip. Travel is funny that way…
Final Thoughts:
Would I recommend this trip to Sharon Springs and the Travelodge by Wyndham? Well… maybe. It depends on what you're looking for. If you're seeking luxury, excitement, and gourmet dining, look elsewhere. But if you're up for a dose of small-town charm, a taste of honest-to-goodness Americana, and the occasional existential crisis fueled by diner coffee, then… go for it. Just pack your own pillow, and maybe some bug spray. And don't judge me if I'm still talking about that pie in six months.
Uncover the Hidden Gem of Bergen: Landgoed Huize Glory Awaits!
Sharon Springs' Hidden Gem (Travelodge Edition!) - FAQ, Because Real Life is Messy
Okay, spill the tea. Is this Travelodge *really* a "Hidden Gem"? My expectations are... well, you know, Travelodge.
Alright, let's be real. "Hidden Gem" is a loaded phrase. It's like when people say "cozy" – it can mean anything from a charming cottage to a damp cave. In the case of this Sharon Springs Travelodge... it's *definitely* not a Four Seasons. But! And this is a big, messy BUT... it exceeded my *very low* expectations. Think of it as a worn leather jacket; not perfect, maybe a little creaky, but ultimately comfortable and with a certain… character. I went in expecting a disaster, honestly. I mean, Travelodge, right? Yet, I ended up charmed. It wasn't pristine, it wasn't luxurious, but... it felt *real*.
What about the location? Is it actually "hidden"? Am I going to be stuck in a ghost town?
"Hidden" is debatable. It's *in* Sharon Springs, which is... well, it's Sharon Springs! It's not exactly Times Square, let's put it that way. It's small, quaint, a little… faded. But that's part of the charm! The Travelodge is right on Main Street, so you're within stumbling distance (more on that later) of the few shops and eateries. One evening, I swear I saw a tumbleweed roll down the street. But then, I also saw a lovely little antique shop with ridiculous, amazing prices. So... balance. It's not a bustling metropolis, but it's definitely not a desolate wasteland. Think "charming small town with a slightly desperate-for-tourists vibe." I love that!
The rooms… what are they *actually* like? Be honest.
Okay. The rooms… Let's just say they're not designed for Instagram. My room had that distinct "hotel room" smell – a blend of cleaning products and… something else. Mystery musty, maybe? The bed was… a bed. Serviceable. Not the cloud-like experience you dream of. BUT, and here's the thing, it was clean! And the water pressure in the shower? Absolutely fantastic! I'm a shower snob, and this one was great. Seriously, a strong, hot shower can make or break a trip, and the Travelodge delivered. My biggest qualm was the lighting. It was… dim. Very dim. I think I needed to squint just to read the TV guide (remember those?). So, pack a really powerful flashlight. Trust me. You'll thank me.
Speaking of the TV guide, what are the amenities like? Free Wi-Fi? A pool? (Don't get my hopes up...)
Okay, so, the amenities. Free Wi-Fi? Yes! Praise be! It worked, and that's all I ask. A pool? Nope. No pool. There *was* a vending machine, which I considered an essential amenity for late-night snack emergencies. The "continental breakfast"? Let's just call it a "continental offering." Bagels, some sad-looking pastries, and coffee that tasted like… well, Hotel Coffee. Embrace the local coffee shop. Trust me. There isn't a lot, but the staff was nice. Seriously. They were super friendly and helpful. It does wonders for the atmosphere!
What are the best things to *do* in Sharon Springs? Is it just… mineral baths and boredom?
Nope, not just mineral baths and boredom! Okay, mineral baths *are* a big draw, and definitely a highlight (more on that in a moment). Also, the Beekman 1802 Mercantile is a must-visit. It's adorable, and I am absolutely obsessed with their goat milk soap. It's just… lovely. Plus, the entire town gives off "old-timey charm" in an incredibly good way. The best thing I did, hands down, was getting the mineral bath. It was so unbelievably relaxing. I thought I'd be bored. I spent over an hour just floating in warm mineral water. It was wonderful. Pure bliss. The place was pretty empty, so it felt like I was the only one there. It was a total escape. I'm usually pretty uptight, but afterwards, I was mellow for hours. Maybe it was the water, or the very limited noise of the town. I think it's a combination of the two. Ah, the mineral bath. I'd go back just for that. And the food isn't the best. But hey, how about checking out the local bakery or the restaurant? It's not five-star dining, but it's authentic.
Okay, let's get down to brass tacks. Is the Travelodge worth the price?
This is the big question, isn't it? Look, it's not a bargain-basement price, but it's also not going to break the bank. Considering the location, the friendly staff, and the *overall experience*, I'd say yes. Especially if you're looking for a low-key, relaxing getaway. It's not about the hotel itself, it's about the total experience. If you're expecting absolute luxury then no. If you're expecting fun, relaxation, and somewhere *different*... then, yeah, it's worth a shot. Just don't expect a Michelin-starred restaurant in the lobby.
Final thoughts? Would you go back?
Okay, the absolute truth? Yes. I totally would. I wouldn't necessarily rave about it to everyone, and I definitely wouldn't take my high-maintenance friends there. But, for a quiet weekend away from the chaos of the city, a chance to unplug and do nothing, to have a good, long soak in a mineral bath and stroll through a quirky, slightly-fading town... Absolutely. It's not perfect, but it's… good. And sometimes, "good" is exactly what you need. And I would take a powerful flashlight!
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