Checked In: My Hotel Stays of 2025 (So Far)

I stay loyal to Marriott—call me a Marriott Maven—but every now and then, I let the vibes, location, or my budget lead me off the beaten (Bonvoy) path. That said, most of my stays this year actually were Bonvoy-approved—just with personality.

From a shower surprise in Lisbon to luxe history in Madrid, 2025 has already been filled with memorable hotel moments. Here’s a recap of where I stayed, what stood out, and why each one was more than just a place to sleep.

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Sheraton Lisboa Hotel & Spa

– Lisbon, Portugal

Neighborhood Vibe: Business district meets city views

Highlight: The shower. In the middle of the room. Seriously.

When I walked into my room at the Sheraton Lisboa, I paused mid-step. Right there—in the middle of the space—was a glass-enclosed shower with no warning from the booking photos. It felt like I had stepped into a futuristic bachelor pad. But once the shock wore off, I couldn’t deny the room’s beauty.

Located in Lisbon’s Saldanha district, the Sheraton is perfectly positioned between the airport and the city center. While it’s a bit more business-forward than neighborhoods like Alfama or Chiado, the modern touches, panoramic views, and spa facilities make this stay feel elevated. And if you’re a Bonvoy member? Even better.

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The Westin Palace Madrid

– Madrid, Spain

Neighborhood Vibe: Elegant and historic—perfect for art lovers

Highlight: Classic luxury + right across from the Prado Museum

Staying at the Westin Palace Madrid is like checking into a palace—because it basically is one. Commissioned in 1912 by King Alfonso XIII, this hotel has hosted royals, artists, spies, and diplomats. It still carries that regal, old-world energy with stained-glass ceilings, gilded accents, and ornate rooms that whisper luxury without trying too hard.

The location is unbeatable: smack in the middle of the Golden Triangle of Art. The Prado Museum is literally across the street. Reina Sofía, Thyssen, and El Retiro Park are just a short walk away. You’re in the Cortes district—a refined neighborhood filled with theaters, boutiques, and some of the best churros and vermouth in town.

From breakfast under the stained-glass dome to the plush robes and marble bathrooms, this hotel felt like a true “treat yourself” moment.

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Hotel U14, Autograph Collection

– Helsinki, Finland

Neighborhood Vibe: Seaside serenity with Nordic chic

Highlight: Minimalist luxury with Marriott perks

Hotel U14 is proof that Marriott’s Autograph Collection is doing exactly what it promises—delivering unique hotels that still feel familiar. It has the cool, contemporary vibe you’d expect from a stylish Helsinki hotel: sleek lines, clean finishes, and thoughtful design. But it’s still Marriott at heart, with all the comfort and loyalty perks you expect.

Set in the calm, coastal Kaartinkaupunki district, the hotel is close to the Market Square, Helsinki Cathedral, and the harbor. It’s walkable and peaceful, with a touch of Nordic luxury that just makes you want to slow down and breathe. The room felt like a curated space—quiet, calm, and perfectly designed for rest. This was definitely a Bonvoy win.

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Hotel Planet Prague

– Prague, Czech Republic

Neighborhood Vibe: Artsy and residential with hidden gems

Highlight: Boutique style with apartment comfort

This boutique hotel is literally above it all—the entire property is perched on the top floor (6th) of the building, accessible via lift to the 5th and a quick walk up. Every room comes with unique rooftop views of Prague, making you feel both tucked away and connected to the city’s charm.

Each room is themed after a different planet—I stayed in Saturn, which had subtle celestial décor and a vibe that made it feel like a stylish little spacecraft floating above Prague. The hotel is located in Holešovice, a creative district full of galleries, hip cafés, and local flavor.

Unlike the full-service Marriotts, there’s no restaurant on-site, but guests get access to a full American breakfast served daily at Amano, an Italian restaurant just 100 meters away. It’s a cozy, local alternative that still fuels you up before exploring the city’s castles, cobblestones, and beer gardens.

This was one of the most unique hotels I’ve stayed in—intimate, artistic, and thoughtfully designed. A little off-brand, maybe… but totally on vibe.

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So… Am I Still a Marriott Maven?

Absolutely. Three out of four of my favorite stays this year were part of the Marriott family—and each one showed just how different Marriott can be when you explore their global portfolio. But even when I step outside the Bonvoy bubble, it’s always about finding places that match the moment.

So here’s to more beautiful check-ins—whether it’s for the points, the price, or the surprise.