The Alexandrian, Autograph Collection

Disappointing Experience with Destination Fee and Poor Customer Service: I recently stayed at The Alexandrian Hotel in Old Town Alexandria and was very disappointed by the handling of the hotel’s $25 destination fee. The fee was supposed to include a pass for free admission to nine historic Alexandria sites, which was one of the reasons I chose to stay there. When I went to the front desk to get my pass, the manager on duty told me they were out of passes — with a dismissive “too bad, so sad” attitude. When I asked to speak to someone else, she said no manager was available. I ended up paying for admission to one of the sites out of pocket. After returning to the hotel with my receipt, I escalated the issue and only after going back and forth was I finally given a credit to reimburse me. While I appreciate that resolution, the experience left a very negative impression. The front desk manager’s attitude was unprofessional and not what I expect from a Marriott property. The destination fee felt misleading — it’s advertised as including certain perks that weren’t actually available. This kind of inconsistency undermines trust and the hotel’s otherwise good reputation. I hope management addresses the staff’s customer service training and ensures advertised amenities are actually provided.

I have been coming to this hotel for years. Staff is great. It is in the perfect location for a visit to Alexandria. I love its old school charm. Rooms are beautifully decorated. And spacious. Comfortable beds. Nice shower. Small but good gym. I’ve seen comments on the hotel being dated. I think that is off the mark. The hotel is lovely and has amazing charm and character and is not cookie cutter like many of the other chain hotels you could choose from. Also the restaurant on site is also excellent. If staying in Old Town, you can’t beat this and this is why I continue to come here.

Traveled with a group of four (including me, the planner). Sam Shaheen, Asst. GM, and his staff rolled out the red carpet for us.

I am the mother of the bride doing those last minute things. I needed help with a few items and spoke with Chris. Chris was professional, patient and was able to answer all of my questions. I used to be in the hotel business and would hire Chris at a heartbeat. Thank you. Chris.

I have been contemplating if I should share a review. As a meeting planner, I have never been so disappointed in a Marriott brand than I am with this hotel. We have experienced several issues with this property and they all have been excused. This past week is inexcusable! They have a rodent issue that I was told was addressed when came up in a past stay. Needless to say I had a Board member encounter this during an extremely important meeting. We also did not have "hot" water to shower. As a trust brand there is so much that cant be trusted and it is very disappointing. Great location. However, they need some major renovations. I cant convince anyone to stay at this property for future events - the damage has been done!