Alexandria's Hidden Gem: Uncover the Magic of the Alexandrian!
Alexandria's Hidden Gem: Uncover the Magic of the Alexandrian! - A Review That's Definitely Not "Perfect"
Okay, alright, settle in, because I just got back from a whirlwind stay at the Alexandrian, and lemme tell ya, it's a… thing. They call it a "hidden gem," and, well, they ain't entirely wrong. But listen, this ain't your standard cookie-cutter review, full of perfectly polished prose. This is real life, folks. So, let's dive in, shall we?
Accessibility & Safety: Trying to Be Good, At Least (Mostly Okay)
First things first: Accessibility. The Alexandrian tries. They advertise wheelchair accessibility, and yeah, there's an elevator (hallelujah!). That's a win. They also have facilities for disabled guests, which is a good sign. But, and this is a big but, I didn't test every single nook and cranny. So, call ahead and check specifically if your needs are super-specific.
Now, amidst the whole pandemic thing, the cleanliness and safety angle is, predictably, all over the place. They're hitting the bullet points: Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, hand sanitizer everywhere (thank the gods!). They even have individually-wrapped food options – which, I admit, felt a little depressing sometimes, but hey, safety first, right? They claim professional-grade sanitizing services and rooms are sanitized between stays. And they offer the room sanitization opt-out option, which, honestly, is a nice touch for folks who are already comfortable. You'll find hand sanitizer and hand hygiene certification.
I noticed CCTV in common areas and outside the property, so at least there’s an attempt to keep things safe. They've got a fire extinguisher in the hall, smoke alarms in the rooms, and even safety deposit boxes – helpful if you're paranoid like me (which, let's be honest, I am).
Rooms: A Mixed Bag of Charm and… Well, Let's Just Say "Character"
Okay, the rooms. This is where things get… interesting. I stayed in a non-smoking room, which was essential, and thankfully didn't smell like a chain smoker's birthday party. They have soundproof rooms, which is brilliant because honestly, who wants to hear someone's snoring through the walls? My room had air conditioning, praise be, and felt okay in terms of temperature, if at times a bit… chilly.
The Wi-Fi [free] in the room was a godsend. Seriously, survived on the internet. The Internet access – wireless was pretty solid, which is essential these days. They also had Internet access – LAN, which I had no clue how to use. So, yeah, maybe the Wi-Fi is your best bet. However, I wish the black out curtains actually blocked out more light.
I'll be honest here, the bathrooms were… serviceable. I had a private bathroom, a separate shower/bathtub, and an additional toilet. They provided toiletries and towels, but the water pressure in the shower was a bit lackluster. It was like taking a shower during a drought. And the lighting? Well, let's just say it wasn't exactly flattering. The mirror was the enemy.
My bed was a extra long bed which was a massive upside, but I didn't get much sleep the first night. I then realized the alarm clock was a bit off and the internet cut out.
They also have the basics: desk, safe box, mini-bar, in-room tea/coffee maker but, I’m getting ahead of myself. More on that later.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: Where the Alexandrian Really Shows Its Hand
Alright, folks, time to talk food. This is where the Alexandrian really shines… and sometimes, totally faceplants. They offer a breakfast [buffet] and an Asian breakfast, which is a nice touch if you're into that. I stuck to the Western breakfast, and look, it was fine. A solid "meh." The coffee/tea in restaurant was actually pretty good.
I ventured into the main restaurant for dinner one night. They have international cuisine, or at least, they try. I will say the salad I had was pretty good. There were some desserts in the restaurant that looked delicious, though.
There's a poolside bar, which is a must. The poolside bar was okay, to be honest. It was definitely the place to be. Lots of people, lots of drinks, and the sound of happy people. They have a bar, it's pretty good, the snack bar was a lifesaver. There's a coffee shop where the coffee and tea are great. I ordered a bottle of water and a few desserts that were very appealing.
Important observation: The Room Service [24-hour]: This is a lifesaver. One day I just didn’t want to leave my room, and it came with everything.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: A Mixed Bag, But With Some Gems
This is the category where the Alexandrian really attempts to impress. They've got the typical lineup: fitness center, gym/fitness. I did not touch either. I'm not that kind of person. I will say, the pool with view is stunning.
They also have a spa. And the spa is… something else. I opted for a massage. It was… interesting. Let's just say the massage therapist was enthusiastic. I won't go into details, but it was a memorable experience, okay? The Body scrub and Body wrap were very good.
They also have a sauna and steamroom, part of the spa/sauna, which are great and I used them to relax.
Services & Conveniences: The Good, The Bad, and the "Huh?"
Lots to unpack here. They offer the usual: daily housekeeping, laundry service, dry cleaning, a concierge, cash withdrawal, currency exchange. They've even got a convenience store. And honestly, those things are super useful when you're stuck in a hotel, am I right?
The Quirks: They offer food delivery. They have a shrine. A what? I'm not even sure what that’s about. But hey, different strokes, right? They have the essential condiments like salt and pepper. And the gift/souvenir shop is good.
They have meeting/banquet facilities and seminars.
For the Kids
They have babysitting services and are family/child friendly, including kids facilities and a kid meal service which I found to be a great bonus for families.
Getting Around
They have airport transfer, taxi services, valet parking, and a car park [free of charge].
Final Verdict: Worth the Gamble?
Look, the Alexandrian isn't perfect, not by a long shot. It has its quirks. It has rooms that are a bit… dated. The service is… enthusiastic, but sometimes a bit haphazard. But – and this is a big BUT – it also has a certain charm. It's authentic. It feels less like a sterile hotel chain and more like a place that has character, a place with a story.
Here's the deal:
- Book if: You're looking for a relaxing break and want a place with character that still offers the amenities you need. You are looking for a getaway.
- Don't book if: You demand perfection, are easily offended by the odd quirk, or need a hotel with super-sleek, modern design.
My Honest, Stream-of-Consciousness Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars. (It’s a heart-warming 3.5 considering the circumstances).
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Tired of cookie-cutter hotels? Crave a unique Alexandria experience? Discover Alexandria's Hidden Gem: The Alexandrian! Nestled in the heart of [mention specific neighborhood or area if known] this hotel offers a blend of comfort, charm, and authentic Alexandrian hospitality.
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- Relaxation & Rejuvenation: Indulge in our spa, featuring relaxing massage, body scrubs, and body wraps. Unwind in our sauna or steamroom
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Alright, buckle up buttercup, because we're about to wade through the beautiful, messy, and frankly, slightly overpriced waters of The Alexandrian in Old Town Alexandria. Consider this your itinerary, your sanity guide, and my personal therapy session, rolled into one gloriously chaotic package.
Day 1: Arrival and the "Oh My God, Did I Really Spend That Much?" Feeling
- 1:00 PM: Arrival & Immediate Disappointment (Kidding…mostly): Okay, first things first. You've probably just flown in, possibly overpaid for your flight (me too, sister, me too), and are now dragging your suitcase across those cobblestone streets. The Alexandrian looks gorgeous from the outside. Like, "Oh, fancy-pants! I'm in a movie!" gorgeous. Check-in is… well, it's a hotel check-in. You stand in line, feel the rising panic as you realize you're underdressed, then get handed a room key. Be polite, tip well (even if you're tempted to do the "continental-level" grumble), and immediately head for your room.
- 1:30 PM: Room Revelation & Existential Dread Let's be honest, you're going to assess your room like its your new life. Is it the beautiful, slightly stuffy, but charming room the pictures promised? Does the natural light make your skin glow, or do you look like a poorly-lit villain? It's going to be one or the other. I got a gorgeous corner room with a view of…another building. It's lovely. After dropping your luggage, you'll likely go to the bathroom and wonder about the cost of things.
- 2:00 PM: Pre-Adventure Snack Attack (Because, Duh): The hotel has a cute little cafe. Probably expensive. But you're hungry, and you rationalize the expense as "experiencing the luxury." Treat yourself to a pastry and that fancy coffee that requires a barista. Try not to faint when you see the bill before heading out into the wild.
- 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Old Town Stroll & The "Is This Real Life?" Moment: Okay, this is where it gets good. Wander. Just wander. King Street is your oyster (and your wallet's worst enemy). Get lost in the tiny, adorable streets. Gawp at the antique shops. "Oh, I could totally buy that." "Wait, how much is this?!" Realize that the prices are slightly insane, but admire the craftsmanship anyway. The architecture? Chef's kiss. I swear I almost teared up the first time I saw those Federal-style houses. Almost.
- 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Waterfront Wanderings & the "I Need a Drink" Phase: Head towards the waterfront. Breathe in the salty air (or whatever passes for "salty" in the Potomac). The views are great. You'll see boats. You'll see people having seemingly perfect lives. "I need a drink," you'll mutter to yourself as you gaze out at the water, contemplating the mysteries of the universe (or at least, how to justify that $15 cocktail later).
- 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Pre-Dinner Prep & The "What Am I Wearing?" Panic: Back to the hotel. Time to shower off the day's grime (or the feeling of it). Contemplate your dinner outfit. This is the moment you realize you overpacked, underpacked, or just packed the wrong stuff entirely. Embrace the fashion chaos. It's part of the process.
- 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM: Dinner at a Recommended Restaurant (Pray it's Good): There are a million restaurants in Old Town. You've probably read reviews, made a reservation, and are now praying to the culinary gods that your meal is edible and worth the price. I’d strongly advise trying out Brabo or Bastille. But, y'know, prepare to pay. And be prepared to have a bit of foodie envy when you look at the plates of the people around you. The food will probably be amazing. Soak it up, indulge, and tip generously.
Day 2: History, Shopping, and the "So Much For My Budget" Reset
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast and the “My Bank Account Cries” Face: Start the day with a light breakfast at a cafe. Think of it as a fuel for the adventure, or use it as the last time you eat a meal that would vaguely make sense.
- 9:30 AM -11:00 AM: History Time! The Torpedo Factory Art Center: You can’t come to Alexandria without a history lesson. The building itself is fascinating. Explore the art studios, meet artists, and maybe, just maybe, buy something you can't afford.
- 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Shopping Spree (Or Window Shopping, Let’s Be Realistic): Head back to King Street. Shop. Look. Touch. Consider. Try things on. Then, remember your budget. Then, buy one small, absolutely unnecessary thing as a treat. No regrets.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch - Because You Need Food (And Maybe a Reality Check): Find a casual spot for lunch. Something affordable (ish). Sandwich or small plate. Reflect on your spending habits. Realize you're on vacation, and decide you'll worry about it later.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: The Spite House & Colonial Charm Overload: Find the Spite House, aka the narrowest historic house in the US. Take a picture. Marvel at the pettiness of the past. Continue strolling through the historic streets, soaking up the atmosphere. Feel a strange urge to move there and start a bed and breakfast.
- 4:00 PM: The Alexandrian Experience: Go back into the hotel. Spend time enjoying the facilities. Really enjoy the facilities. Read a book by the fireplace. Take a shower. Take a nap. Use the gym. Think.
- 6:00 PM - Late: Evening Entertainment (Whatever Your Heart Desires): Consider a more casual dinner. Explore the live music scene. Head to a wine bar and make new friends. Or, if you're like me, order room service, put on your comfiest pajamas, and binge-watch a terrible reality show. No judgment.
Day 3: Departure & the "Worth It?" Dilemma
- 9:00 AM: Final Breakfast & The Emotional Goodbye to Your Wallet: Enjoy your last breakfast. Savor every overpriced morsel. Start mentally preparing for the inevitable credit card bill.
- 10:00 AM: Last-Minute Souvenir Sweep & Regret (Maybe): Go buy that souvenir you've been eyeing all along. Immediately regret it as you board the plane.
- 11:00 AM: Check Out & The "I'll Be Back…Eventually" Vow: Check out. Thank the staff. Leave a good tip. And promise yourself you'll return to Old Town Alexandria. Maybe in a few years, after you've saved up again.
- Departure: Head to the airport, already planning your next adventure.
Important Notes:
- Be Prepared to Walk: Old Town is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes.
- Embrace the Mess: Things won't always go according to plan. Get lost. Make mistakes. Have fun.
- Your Budget is Your Friend: Set one. And then ignore it… occasionally.
- Enjoy! It's Alexandria. It's beautiful. Even if it's a little bit crazy.
And that, my friend, is your Alexandrian adventure. Good luck, have fun, and try not to max out your credit card! (I'll be right there with you, probably.)
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Alexandria's Hidden Gem: The Alexandrian - So, You Wanna Know, Huh? (And I'm Here for It!)
Okay, Okay, Spill the Tea: What ACTUALLY is the Alexandrian? Is it a Speakeasy? a Museum? Am I Gonna Get Mugged?
Alright, buckle up, because "The Alexandrian" is… well, it's complicated. Imagine the lovechild of a vintage bookshop, a bohemian artist's studio, and a really, REALLY good cocktail bar. Okay, maybe not a "mugging" situation (though, keep your wits about you anywhere, right?). It’s more of a place where you *could* accidentally stumble into a passionate debate about the meaning of life while sketching a gargoyle sculpture. I swear, that actually happened to me! I was just there last week, and seriously, one minute I'm admiring the aged leather of a first edition, and the next I'm surrounded by a heated philosophical argument. It's NOT a museum. It's WAY more alive than that. And while they do great cocktails - *fantastic*, even - it's not exclusively a speakeasy either, though it certainly *feels* like one, hidden away like it is. Honestly? It's an *experience*. And a damn good one at that.
Finding This "Alexandrian" Seems like a Quest. How Do I Actually *Get* There? Give it to Me Straight, No Fluff.
Okay, here's the deal. I'm not gonna just blurt out the address, because that kinda ruins the fun, doesn't it? It's part of the allure! Let's just say it's in Old Town Alexandria, off the beaten path… *way* off. Think narrow cobblestone streets, perhaps a slightly dodgy alleyway, and a door that looks like it belongs to a forgotten time… or perhaps, the back entrance to a magic shop. You'll need to do a little digging. A little *exploring*. Look for the clues. Read between the lines. My first time took me, embarrassingly, like, an hour of wandering. I SWEAR, I *almost* gave up. Now, I practically *skipped* there, and that just comes with… living with the place. It’s not just a location; it's a feeling, and once you know it, you just *know*. And, okay, fine, I'll give you a hint: ask around the local bookstores. You'll notice them whispering about… *something*. And if that fails, use a map. That usually works. Don't tell them I told you.
What's the Vibe? Am I Gonna Feel Underdressed in My Jeans and T-shirt?
Relax. You're good. The Alexandrian isn't stuffy. But… well, it depends. You'll see everything, from people in ripped jeans to folks in full vintage ensembles, though I gotta say, the vintage and the boho is almost *expected*. Don't be surprised to find someone in a top hat chatting with someone in, like, a space suit (okay, maybe I'm exaggerating *slightly*). But, here's the secret: it’s about the *atmosphere*. It’s dim, intimate, and filled with the low hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses. Wear something that makes *you* feel good. It's about embracing the eccentric. I've gone from jeans and sneakers to a slightly-too-fancy-dress, and nobody batted an eye. Comfort is key – you want to be able to, say, sit for hours listening to someone play the piano, or dance if the occasion (and the mood) strikes.
Okay, So, The Drinks. Are They Good? Expensive? What Should I Expect?
The drinks? Oh, the drinks. My friend, BE PREPARED TO BE AMAZED. They're *art*. Seriously. I've had cocktails there that tasted like pure imagination. They're not cheap, mind you – you're paying for quality, craftsmanship, and that indescribable *Alexandrian* touch. Expect classic cocktails done perfectly, and then a whole host of creations you've never even dreamed of. They name the drinks after book characters and historical figures. One time I had a "Cleopatra" – smoky, sweet, and utterly lethal. And the food? Light bites are available, and it's always delicious. Do not underestimate the cheese and charcuterie – essential for a long night of philosophical debate. Don't expect a quick turnaround, though. These bartenders take their time, but that’s part of the magic. Trust me, it’s worth the wait… and the price tag. One time, I remember, I spilled my drink. The bartender, a guy named Arthur, with a handlebar mustache that deserved its own zip code, just *smiled* and gave me a fresh one, no extra charge. It's that kind of place. But don’t make a habit of it, alright?
What If I'm, Like, Awkward? Will I Feel Out of Place? Because, Yup. Awkward.
Look, we've all been there. The Alexandrian, however, is surprisingly forgiving. It's a place where awkwardness is almost… welcome. Because everyone there is a little offbeat. There's something about the ambiance that encourages you to just… be yourself. You see people from all walks of life, all sorts of oddities, and you soon realize that *everybody* is welcome. Strike up a conversation with the person beside you. It’s hard *not* to. They'll all have a story. Bring a friend, or go solo. Either way, you’ll probably end up making a new one. I've met some of the most interesting people there. One night, I ended up in a lively discussion about the merits of existentialism with a woman who claimed to be a time traveler. Seriously! Was she? I have no idea, and honestly? I don't care. The Alexandrian just… allows for that. Try to be open to new experiences and you'll find that your awkward moments are just part of the tapestry of the experience. Embrace the weird. Embrace the unexpected. Embrace *yourself*. You'll fit right in.
Is There Anything *Bad* About the Alexandrian? Come On, Dish!
Okay… alright… (Deep breath). Yes. There are downsides. One major one: It's *hard* to get in. Not the finding it part, but the availability. It's small. Really small. It can fill up fast, especially on weekends. And there aren't many places to sit. Sometimes you're just standing around, which, after a while, with a good drink in hand, can be a bit more than a little annoying. Also, if you're someone who needs a super-fast service, this is NOT the place for you. It's all about savoring the moment, the drinks, the conversation. But you might have to wait at the bar for a bit, and that can be frustrating when you're itching for a drink. Then, some people find it too… much. Too many people, too much… *atmosphere*. It's certainly not a place for the easily overwhelmed. And truthfully? They are *not* cheap. So, be prepared to spend a bit. But, again, *I* think it's worth it, but I always bring a bit more cash than usual. Don’t be surprised if you end up staying for hours on end, leaving with a fuzzy head, and a list of things you *definitely* need to Google the nextHotel Haven Now
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