Columbia's BEST Downtown Hotel? Cambria Hotel Review!
Cambria Hotel Columbia: My Honest (and Slightly Rambling) Take on "Best Downtown"
Okay, buckle up, folks, because I just spent a weekend at the Cambria Hotel in downtown Columbia, and frankly, my brain is still processing all the… stuff. You know? Like, hotels. They’re a thing. And this one, they say it's the best downtown. So, let's break it down, shall we? From the (maybe slightly too enthusiastic) welcome, to the questionable coffee, I'm spilling the tea (or, you know, the lukewarm, slightly bitter hotel coffee).
Accessibility: Crucial but Not Always Seamless
Right off the bat, Accessibility is important. They say they're good, and frankly, they try. Wheelchair accessible rooms are available, and the website claims everything is designed with ease of movement in mind. Good start! However, I didn't personally test a wheelchair, so caveat emptor - call and specify your needs directly. The elevator is a must, and thankfully, it's there. They have Facilities for disabled guests, which is something, but again, I didn't deep dive to fully evaluate them. Also crucial are the Check-in/out [express] and Contactless check-in/out. The latter can be a lifesaver!
Cleanliness and Safety: Trying Their Best (and That's Enough for Me)
This whole post-COVID world… it's a lot. So, props to the Cambria for the effort. They clearly get that Cleanliness and safety are HUGE. I noticed hand sanitizer stations everywhere. Anti-viral cleaning products are being used (they say), and the staff is clearly trained in safety protocol. Rooms sanitized between stays, they claim, and they offer a Room sanitization opt-out available if you're feeling extra cautious. Honestly, it felt pretty clean overall, and that's a win in my book. They have CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property which is comforting. Oh, and the smoke alarms, fire extinguisher, and all that jazz. They even have a First aid kit! They're covered base, I'll give them that.
Rooms: Mostly Cozy, with a Few Quirks
Let's talk about the Available in all Rooms… the basics. Air conditioning: check. Alarm clock: check (though I, being a digital hermit, used my phone). Blackout curtains: DOUBLE CHECK! Crucial for a good night's sleep, especially after a night of… well, let's just say Columbia knows how to party. The Bathroom was… functional. And, yes, the bathrobes were plush. The bed was comfortable, the linens were clean and crisp. My in-room safe box worked! The complimentary tea was a nice gesture, though, again, I stuck to coffee.
Now, the quirks. My room had a window that opens, which is a plus for fresh air, but also made me slightly nervous about street noise. I did have a Refrigerator, which was great since my midnight chicken nugget cravings are insatiable. The Internet access – wireless (WiFi) was mostly good, I’ll come back to this. My internet access -- LAN never happened, it was not important though. The desk was a decent size, and Ironing facilities were key.
The downside? My biggest complaint was that the room felt a little… sterile. Missing was the 'wow' factor. More importantly, the soundproofing was good, but not perfect. I could still vaguely hear late-night revelers down the street.
Internet: The Great Wi-Fi Saga
Okay, the Internet. Ah, the Internet! They boast of Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!. And, generally, it worked fine. But… I was there for a conference, and when the whole hotel was online, well, let's just say I had a few moments of Wi-Fi induced existential dread. The connection would drop out at critical moments (like when I was trying to livestream my cat's nap). I’d get it back, then it would die again. A bit like my will to do anything during the conference. Overall, it was ok, better than some, not as good as others.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Mixed Bag
The Bar was a decent place to huddle and people-watch while sipping my slightly overpriced beer. The Coffee shop served… coffee. The Restaurant was trying! They have restaurants and poolside bar and room service [24-hour]. They claim Asian cuisine in restaurant, but I stuck to the Western, which was, well, Western. The breakfast [buffet] was a classic hotel affair: not award-winning, but got the job done. Breakfast in room or Breakfast takeaway service were options (which I always love when hung over). The Coffee/tea in restaurant was definitely needed after said hangover. There was also a Snack bar. The Bottle of water was, as always, appreciated.
The happy hour was a highlight - good deals on drinks and a chance to mingle. Sadly, I missed the a la carte in restaurant, desserts in restaurant, soup in restaurant, etc. But they are there. The vegetarian restaurant was one option, I'm guessing.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: A Focus on Function Over Fun?
They have a Fitness center. Fine. They have a Pool with view. Well, at least a pool. They have Sauna and Spa, with Massage and Steamroom. I did not explore these options, so I can’t confirm their quality. They also have Swimming pool [outdoor]. They have a Terrace… so they're trying!
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things Matter
This is where the Cambria shines. The Concierge was helpful. Daily housekeeping was efficient. Laundry service was a lifesaver (wine stains happen). Cash withdrawal was available. And the Convenience store saved me from a late-night candy crisis. The Air conditioning in public area was a MUST. Doorman for the win!
For the Kids & Other Interesting Bits
They're Family/child friendly. They offer Babysitting service. They've got the basics covered.
They have Meeting/banquet facilities, and business facilities. Invoice provided is a nice touch for the business travelers. They offer a Car park [free of charge], which is a HUGE win. Car park [on-site] as well. Valet parking. And if you need to charge your Tesla, a Car power charging station is also available.
The proposal spot is intriguing. I am not, at the moment, going to propose.
The Verdict: Worth a Stay?
Alright, here's the truth: The Cambria isn't perfect. It's a little… meh in places. But for the overall experience, this is Columbia's BEST Downtown Hotel. It’s safe, clean, and convenient. The staff is friendly. The location is good (close to everything downtown). And, crucially, it’s a solid, reliable choice. If you want a luxurious escape, maybe look elsewhere. But, if you're looking for a comfortable, functional base for exploring Columbia, the Cambria is a definite contender.
Here’s My (Slightly Aggressive) Offer:
STOP SCROLLING. BOOK THE CAMBRIA NOW!
Okay, maybe not that aggressive. But seriously. If you're planning a trip to Columbia, whether it's for a weekend getaway, a conference, or just because you feel like it, then the Cambria is where you should lay your head.
But here’s a special offer ONLY for those reading this long, rambling review:
- Book directly through the hotel's website (link below) and use the code "REVIEWBLOG" for a 10% discount on your stay.
- Get a complimentary upgrade to a room with a better view (subject to availability). Just mention the "Review Blog" offer when you book.
- Receive a free drink coupon at the bar. Because you deserve a drink after reading all this!
Don't wait! Book your stay at the Cambria Hotel Columbia today!
[Insert Hotel Website Link Here]
(Disclaimer: My opinions are my own, and I was not paid to write this review. I did, however, consume considerable amounts of coffee.)
Central Belfast Luxury: 7 Camden St. Apartment Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! This isn't your sanitized, perfectly-crafted travel brochure. This is me, stumbling through a weekend in Columbia, SC, and documenting every glorious, messy detail. We're talking Cambria Hotel Columbia Downtown, The Vista, and everything in between. Let's get REAL:
Cambria Chronicles: Columbia, SC – A Weekend of Slightly Over-Planned Chaos
Day 1: Arrival, Realizations, and… Spicy Chicken?
1:00 PM - Touchdown in Columbia (Airport-ish): Okay, so the flight wasn’t exactly on time. We're talking "delayed because of a bird" levels of delayed. Honestly, I'd rather blame a flock of pigeons than admit I maybe, possibly almost missed the boarding call because I was distracted by a particularly alluring airport coffee shop. Jet lag is already hitting me like a brick wall.
1:30 PM - Uber Ride of Judgement: The drive to the Cambria Hotel, The Vista. Our driver was a true Charleston native, regaling us with tales of the city’s quirks and the vast difference between Charleston and Columbia. The AC in the Uber was a tad aggressive. I may need to invest in a travel blanket.
**About 2:00 PM - Cambria Hotel Check-In: ** The lobby is… well, it's a hotel lobby. Modern, clean, slightly generic. The check-in lady was impeccably polite, and her sweet Carolina accent was a balm to my frazzled nerves. Thank god, I’m officially in!
2:30 PM - The Room Reveal (and the Quest for Snacks): Room is fine, view is…well, it’s a view. I was honestly too hungry to properly appreciate it. Fridge is empty. Tragedy. Where’s the vending machine? I need sustenance!
3:00 PM - The Vending Machine Odyssey: Okay, the vending machine is downstairs. My internal fitness tracker is crying. Managed to procure a bag of Doritos (because I am a classy traveler) and a lukewarm bottle of water. Regretting not packing more snacks. Lesson learned: Always pack snacks.
**4:00 PM - Pre-Dinner Prep: ** After a quick freshening up, I am out to explore before dinner begins.
5:00 PM - Dinner Disaster (and Deliciousness): I decided to try a restaurant for dinner. The line was intimidating, but I’m determined and my stomach is grumbling louder than my phone’s alarm. I finally get a table, and I order the Spicy Chicken, and oh, it was spicy. My mouth was on fire! I think everyone could hear me chugging water. But hey, at least the chicken was fire! Good food and great company make up for a lot.
7:00 PM - Evening Stroll Around Vista: The Vista is cool! The vibrant energy reminds me of a more relaxed version of downtown. I could get in the habit of walking around here.
10:00 PM - Sleep, Hopefully: Stumbling back to the hotel. I'm beat. Body is a mix of exhaustion and spicy chicken adrenaline. Attempting to fall asleep. Wish me luck.
Day 2: Culture, Coffee, and a Whole Lotta Walking
9:00 AM - Wakey Wakey, Eggs and Regrets: Breakfast at the hotel was…fine. I'm starting to think I have an aversion to hotel breakfasts. I should have gotten that avocado toast at the cafe.
**10:00 AM - South Carolina State Museum: ** Amazing Museum. History, art, culture. I'll come back here.
12:00 PM - Quick Lunch at a Local Gem: Found a cafe. They had all the local favorites. The food was amazing. It's one of those places that feels like a local secret.
1:30 PM - Explore the University of South Carolina: Walked the campus. It reminded me of my school days.
4:00 PM - Back to the Hotel, with Time to Reflect: Back to the hotel. A little tired, but glad the day was filled with experiences.
5:00 PM - Dinner and Drinks: Found a place with great music. Had a blast.
10:00 PM - Back to the hotel: Relax and sleep.
Day 3: Departure and the Sweetest Memories
9:00 AM - Goodbye, Columbia: Check out.
10:00 AM - Airport: Airport is a little more crowded today.
11:00 AM - Flight Home: Plane is boarding.
Departure: Reflecting in the air. Such a great trip.
Post-Trip Musings:
- The Good: The people were incredibly friendly. The food (when it was good) was amazing. The history was fascinating.
- The Bad: The flight delays. The weird hotel breakfast. My own indecisiveness with food choices.
- The Ugly: Nothing.
- Would I Go Back? Absolutely! Columbia, you charmed the pants off me. I'm already planning my return.
Cambria Hotel Columbia, SC: Ask Me Anything! (Probably, I'm Still Thinking About That Pool...)
Okay, spill the beans! Is this place *actually* the "BEST Downtown Hotel" as everyone claims?
Alright, alright, settle down. "BEST" is a BIG word, you know? Look, it's definitely *up there*. Location-wise? Smack dab in the sweet spot. You're literally steps from everything. I mean, *everything*. Shops, restaurants, that awesome soda fountain place with the root beer floats (don't judge, I went twice). But the *best* best? Well… it depends. Did I enjoy it? Yes. Would I recommend it? Probably. Did it *change my life*? Hold on... I need another root beer float to evaluate that. Okay, maybe not life-changing. More… *perfectly decent.* (And yes, I'm still thinking about that pool. More on that later.)
The location seems good. What about parking? Because, honestly, parking is the bane of my existence.
Oh. Parking. *Deep breath*. Okay, here's the deal. They have a garage. A relatively *expensive* garage. Like, make-you-wince-when-you-see-the-bill-kind-of-expensive. Is it convenient? Yep. Do you have other options? Sure! You can try street parking and pray to the Parking Gods of Columbia (they’re a fickle bunch). You *could* also wander around like a lost puppy for half an hour searching for a slightly cheaper lot. I chose the garage. Because, you know, lazy. (And maybe there were ghosts in that dark alley I was avoiding.) So, bottom line: be prepared to pay. But hey, at least your car won't be towed. Probably.
Let's talk about the rooms. Are they… nice? Clean? Do they have enough outlets? (I have a LOT of devices.)
The rooms... okay, the rooms are *good*. Not a palace, mind you. But definitely better than a Motel 6. Clean? Mostly. I may or may not have found a stray hair in the bathroom. (It wasn't mine, I swear!) Outlets? YES! Thank the heavens. I could power my phone, my tablet, my e-reader, and even that weird vibrating back thing I bought off TV. The bed was comfy-ish. Pillows? Adequate. The view? Well, I looked at another building. Romantic? Nope. Functional? You betcha. Think modern, slightly generic… with LOTS of outlets. And, importantly, a decent coffee maker. Because I *require* caffeine.
What about the food? Breakfast? Dinner? Anything worth getting excited about?
Okay, alright, the breakfast… um. Let's just say it's standard hotel breakfast fare. Think eggs, bacon, those weird little pre-packaged muffins that taste suspiciously like cardboard (but you eat them anyway, because you're hungry). They had a waffle maker, which is always a pro. I’m a sucker for waffles. Dinner? Didn't try it. There are *tons* of amazing restaurants nearby – why eat at the hotel when you're in the heart of downtown Columbia and surrounded by culinary treasures? Go explore! You'll thank me later. (And try that soda fountain, seriously.)
The pool! I saw pictures. Is it as glorious as it looks? Because, pictures can lie.
THE POOL. Ah, the *pool*. Okay, so this is where things get... complicated. The pictures *are* pretty. It looks inviting. I envisioned leisurely laps, sipping fruity drinks, maybe even flirting a little (okay, maybe not the flirting). The *reality*...? Well, let’s just say I encountered...a lot of kids. And a few enthusiastic adults. And a general sense of...chaos. It wasn't *bad*. It was just… loud. And crowded. And maybe slightly chlorinated. I opted for the "observing from the pool deck, contemplating the meaning of life" approach, which, to be fair, is a valid vacation activity. I really wanted to go in, I really did. But the sheer number of splashing bodies… It's not *glorious* glory, but functional! But, I did get some nice photos of the pool!
The staff? Friendly? Helpful? Because rude hotel staff is a dealbreaker for me.
The staff? Good. Really good. Smiling faces. Helpful with directions (except for that one time I asked where the nearest emergency root beer float was, and they looked at me a little strangely). They were efficient. They were polite. They didn't judge my questionable fashion choices. (I blame the packing. And possibly the root beer.) No complaints here. Kudos to the people working there. Nice people, who are good at their jobs. In the grand scheme of things, the staff is everything.
Okay, so... should I stay there? Give me the definitive answer!
Look, here's the deal. If you want a central location, a perfectly adequate room, a decent breakfast (and access to a pool… that will *probably* be less chaotic than my experience), and a generally smooth experience, then yeah. Stay there. Consider it. It's not the most *memorable* hotel, but it's reliable. It's convenient. And hey, you're in Columbia! Explore! Go have adventures! Just remember to factor in the parking cost. And maybe bring earplugs for the pool. And definitely, *definitely* try that root beer float...
Any hidden gems? Secret tips? Insider knowledge? Share the goods!
Okay, fine, I'll spill. My secret? The elevator situation. It's *fast*. Like, shockingly fast. I was constantly zipping up and down, because I'm impatient. And I might have tested it a few times, just for the thrill. (Don't tell anyone.) Oh, and wander around the lobby. It’s actually really nice and has some cool art. Also, if you are feeling cheap, parking in the neighboring streets is your best bet, just check the signs!
Would you stay there again? (Be honest!)
Honestly? Probably. Ocean By H10 Hotels
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