Escape to Ashland, OR: Comfort & Luxury Await at Your Dream Inn!
Escape to Ashland: More Than Just a Pretty Picture (Believe Me, It's Gorgeous Though)
Alright, let's talk about Escape to Ashland. Picture this: you're frazzled, the world feels like a pressure cooker, and you NEED a break. You've heard whispers of Ashland, Oregon – a charming town nestled in the mountains, famous for the Shakespeare Festival and… well, that's kinda all I knew going in. But this place, this inn, promised comfort and luxury, and, let me tell you, they weren't kidding. But it wasn't all sunshine and roses, not exactly.
Accessibility & The Little Hiccups:
First things first: Accessibility. They say wheelchair accessible, and they mostly are. Ramps and elevators are a blessing, but maneuvering around the lush landscaping with a chair could be tricky in certain spots. I’m talking about the path to the outdoor swimming pool. The pool itself? Stunning! A view to die for, gleaming in the sun. But getting there? A little less glamorous with the slightly uneven brick path. They could maybe, just maybe, smooth out those gaps a bit. Just saying. And the elevator? Don't get me started on the initial learning curve… I almost got stuck in there, which sent my anxiety levels skyrocketing!
Internet – My Constant Companion (and Occasional Frustration):
Okay, gotta be honest, I'm dependent on the internet. Work, social media (judge away!), keeping in touch with the real world… and the inn knew this with Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Excellent! But the actual connection? I'd give it a solid B+. It wasn't lightning fast; there were moments of buffering that tested my patience--especially when I desperately needed to watch a downloaded episode of "The Great British Bake Off" after a particularly bad session at the spa. They also have LAN internet access, which I didn't even bother with, because let's be real, who uses those Ethernet cables anymore?!
Cleanliness & Safety – The New Normal (and They Nailed It):
After the pandemic, cleanliness is everything, right? Well, they've clearly put a lot of effort into it. Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, and rooms sanitized between stays – check, check, and check. They even offered room sanitization opt-out (which I loved - felt empowered to do what I wanted with my space!) Seeing staff diligently following protocols, including hand sanitizer stations everywhere, honestly put my mind at ease. The safe dining setup was reassuring, too. And, for the germaphobes out there (no judgement!), they had individually-wrapped food options. Bonus points!
Dining, Drinking & Snacking – A Feast for the Senses (Mostly):
Okay, the food. This is where things get interesting. They boast of multiple restaurants, and room service [24-hour]. Score! I'm all about convenience when I'm escaping reality. They offered a buffet [breakfast]: a solid selection, Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, and everything in between. I’m not usually a buffet person, but this one was actually good. The coffee shop was my daily ritual. Just a perfect start to the day. The poolside bar, though? That was a game changer. Sipping cocktails while overlooking the view? Yes, please. But the real highlight was a chance to sample some tasty local beers on the terrace, overlooking the garden. Pure bliss.
One nitpick - the A la carte in restaurant option was tempting, but the dinner menu seemed slightly limited, and the happy hour could've been a little bit more… well, happy in terms of offerings.
Ways to Relax – Oh, The Spa, Oh, The Massage (Prepare to Swoon):
Alright, the spa. This is where the "luxury" part really shines. Sauna, steamroom… and massages… OH THE MASSAGES! I had a massage from a therapist who was clearly divinely gifted. This woman worked magic on my knotted shoulders. Seriously, I felt like a new person afterward. I might've actually purred a little, which, I know, is deeply embarrassing. They also offer body scrub and body wrap treatments. The fitness center looked decent too, although I’ll admit I didn’t break a sweat there. I was far too relaxed. And the pool with view was so ridiculously picturesque.
Things to Do – More Than Just Spa Days (But Mostly Fun Times):
Okay, beyond the spa, Things to do are actually pretty easy to find in Ashland. They have a concierge service, Facilities for disabled guests are on offer, and the town is easily walkable. They had Business facilities available if you really had to work on your “escape”. I was tempted to visit the gift/souvenir shop, but I was already running out of luggage space! And for the Shakespeare fans, it's a stone's throw from the world-famous festival, if, you know, you're into that sort of thing.
Rooms, Glorious Rooms – My Temporary Sanctuary:
The rooms are lovely. Air conditioning, wake-up service, free Wi-Fi, complimentary tea and coffee, super-comfy beds… all the essentials. I had a non-smoking room (thank the heavens). The extra-long bed was a dream! The blackout curtains were crucial for sleeping in after a tough day of… relaxing. The bathrobes? Pure luxury. And the separate shower/bathtub was a serious win. They even offer interconnecting rooms if you're dragging the whole family along. The in-room safe box and safety/security features (yay! Smoke detector, fire extinguisher) were comforting, but let's be real, am I really going to steal from myself?
Services and Conveniences – The Little Things That Matter:
The daily housekeeping was amazing, and the concierge was a lifesaver. The doorman was polite and helpful. Cash withdrawal near the reception was a convenience. The laundry service was a godsend after I accidentally spilled red wine on my favorite shirt (don't ask!). Valet parking was a nice touch, although I usually preferred just parking my car on the car park [free of charge].
For the Kids – Family-Friendly (I Think?):
I didn't have any kids with me, so I can't personally attest to the experience. But I saw enough to assume it could be a good choice. They have babysitting service, so there's that.
Getting Around – Freedom and Convenience
Car park [free of charge] was wonderful, but there are also airport transfer options, which is great. And Ashland itself is compact enough to explore by foot or by taxi service.
The Verdict - Worth the Escape?
Absolutely. Despite a few minor hiccups with the internet (seriously, upgrade!), and the slightly uneven access to the pool, Escape to Ashland delivers on its promise of comfort and luxury. The spa is a highlight, the service is excellent, and the entire vibe is incredibly relaxing. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and recharge. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Just maybe I’ll take the stairs to the pool next time.
Shepherdsville Escape: Unbeatable Deals at Super 8 by Wyndham!
Alright, alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's meticulously planned travel itinerary. This is my Ashland, Oregon, experience, raw, messy, and probably fueled by too much coffee and a deeply rooted need for adventure. We're staying at the Comfort Inn & Suites, which, let's be honest, is the very definition of “perfectly adequate.” But honestly, it's a base camp for the REAL adventure!
Day 1: Arrival & Initial Bewilderment (AKA, Finding the Damn Hotel)
- 1:00 PM - Arrival at Rogue Valley Medford International Airport (MFR): Ha! "International." Let's not get ahead of ourselves. The only international thing about this place is the sheer bewilderment I feel when I realize I've forgotten where I parked and there's not a single moving sidewalk. Okay, deep breaths. Find car, find the road, find… Comfort Inn. Apparently, Google Maps thinks Highway 66 is a suggestion, not a mandatory directive. There's a charming chaos in small-town driving, I'll give it that.
- 2:30 PM - Check-in & Room Reconnaissance: Okay, the room at the Comfort Inn is… exactly what I expected. Clean, functional, and the kind of place where you can’t quite remember if you turned the lights off. My initial thought? "Well, this is where I'll be sleeping. (And probably binge-watching Netflix.)" The pool looks suspiciously chlorine-y. I might skip that.
- 3:00 PM - First Impressions & Grocery Run: Time to get the lay of the land. Ashland is… cute! Too cute, almost. You know, the kind of town where everyone seems to know each other and the dog groomer also runs the local pottery studio. A visit to the local grocery store. I'm starving and I need snacks. Found the weirdest, most regional snacks! This is where my true opinions start to come out, because it's where I spend more time than a rational person should.
- 4:00 PM - Exploring Downtown - The First "Wow" Moment: Stumbled upon the Plaza. It’s like a postcard come to life. Trees, a fountain, quaint shops. I swear, I nearly choked on my coffee at the sight of a bookstore – real, paper books, not those soulless e-readers. Sigh. I'm a sucker for the "quaint" vibe.
- 6:00 PM - Dinner at Alchemy Restaurant & Bar: This place gets rave reviews. I arrive expecting molecular gastronomy and end up with some perfectly acceptable if slightly pricey plates.
- Mental Note: Remember to ask for water immediately next time. Dehydration does NOT make for a good evening of theatre.
- 8:00 PM - Wandering around: Okay, I’m starting to get a feel for this town. It’s got a certain… something. I wander along an old river walk to make the most of the sunset. I don't often find myself speechless.
- 9:00 PM - Bedtime: I crash. Early start tomorrow, apparently.
Day 2: Shakespeare & Sudden Existential Crisis (Maybe)
- 8:00 AM - The Breakfast Buffets!: Alright, the breakfast buffet at the Comfort Inn. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but at least the coffee is hot, the waffles are edible, and the plastic utensils are a delightful reminder of the impermanence of all things.
- Pro Tip: Hover patiently by the waffle machine until the waffle is ready to be removed. It's the ultimate test of self-control.
- 9:00 AM - The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF): This is the main reason I'm here, I swear. I signed up for two play showings today, because I’m nothing if not dramatic… in a literal way. I get to the theatre. They’re playing something I actually know this time, but I’m not sure how many people are going to get the jokes in the 21st century, to be honest.
- Pre-Show Anxiety: I'm pretty sure I'm not supposed to be nervous. But what if my dramatic interpretations don't align with the director's vision?
- Later, After the Show: Holy…wow. I've never seen anything like it. It wasn’t how I expected it to go, but the actors were phenomenal! I think I understand Shakespeare better now.
- 12:00 PM - Lunch at a Local Cafe: Found a cute outdoor cafe. Ate way too much, and then had a minor panic attack about my ever-expanding waistline.
- 1:30 PM - Second Play: Another one. This is the life, right? This play wasn't as fun as the last, but the performances make up for it. I’m a tad tired now.
- 4:30 PM - Lithia Park: I got an urgent need to see nature, after all those theatre productions. A charming place with water fountains, walking trails, ducks. It's a welcome respite from the intellectual stimulation, but also a reminder of the sheer beauty of the world. I want to get lost in the woods.
- 6:00 PM - Dinner at El Tapatio: A local Mexican place - the food is okay, but the margaritas are strong enough to make you believe in magic.
Day 3: Regrets, Revisions & the Road Home
- 9:00 AM - The dreaded check-out: Goodbye, Comfort Inn. It has been… an experience.
- 9:30 AM - A Quick Morning Hike: After my trip to Lithia Park, I need to take on another hiking trail! I spend some time just… being. The trees whispering secrets, the air crisp and clean. Yes. This is why I travel.
- 11:00 AM - Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping: I need presents to give to people, but I hate that I can't get the perfect trinkets for them. I find some weird postcards and some local honey, which, honestly, I just want for myself.
- 12:00 PM - Farewell Lunch: Hit up a place in the Plaza for a final, slow lunch. I sip my coffee, watching the people go by, and realize I don’t want to leave.
- 1:00 PM - Head to Airport
So, there you have it. Ashland, Oregon. It was a bit messy, a bit emotional, and entirely unforgettable. I'm already planning my return. Maybe I'll even try the pool next time. Maybe. (Probably not.) But I'll definitely be back.
Escape to Paradise: Days Inn Mt. Pleasant, MI – Your Dream Getaway Awaits!
Escape to Ashland, OR - FAQs (Because Let's Be Real, We All Have Questions!)
Okay, but *seriously*, is this place REALLY as dreamy as the photos?
Ugh, that's the million-dollar question, isn't it? Let me be honest... the photos are *pretty* accurate. But the thing is, photos can't capture the smell of the pine needles, the way the sunlight dapples through the trees, or the ridiculously comfy feeling of collapsing onto that ridiculously fluffy bed after a long day of... well, whatever you're doing.
I went expecting Instagram perfection, you know? Like, meticulously arranged succulents and someone constantly dusting things. What I *got* was… actual comfort. Real, cozy comfort. It's like the Inn is saying, "Come in, take a breath, and just... be." It’s less showroom, more lived-in luxury if that makes sense. And honestly? I’d choose lived-in any day. (Especially when I'm desperately trying to avoid ironing my shirt for dinner. Success.)
What's the deal with the breakfast? Because *breakfast*. Is it a continental nightmare or actual sustenance?
Okay, breakfast. This is critical. I am a *breakfast person*. And let me tell you, I am incredibly picky. The Inn? They nailed it. And again. They nailed it *hard*.
It wasn’t just a sad buffet of stale muffins and lukewarm coffee (which I have unfortunately endured at some places. Shudder). Think fresh fruit that actually tastes like fruit, not cardboard. Think fluffy pastries that melt in your mouth. Think... well, I'm pretty certain one morning I had a French toast creation that made me weep a single, joyful tear. I might be exaggerating. Okay, I am *slightly* exaggerating. But it was seriously good. And the coffee? Not bitter sludge, but rich, dark, and perfect. My morning started with a double shot espresso and a smile. That’s good on my book.
How far is it from the Shakespeare Festival? Because, you know, that's kinda the point, right?
Oh, the Festival. That's the *other* million-dollar question. I am a huge Shakespeare fan, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn't mostly there for the food and the people-watching. The Inn is *convenient*. Like, unbelievably convenient. You can practically stumble out of bed, brush your teeth (maybe), and walk there. Okay, maybe not stumble. They do expect a certain level of decorum. But it's a short, pleasant walk. No stressing about parking. No frantic Uber searches. Just… theatre. And maybe a strategically placed pre-theatre beverage or two. Which, you know, is good, because I might just have been late for a performance... once. Or twice. Whatever, the point is, location is ideal.
Speaking of beverages … they have a bar? Because I need answers. Also, are the rooms soundproof?
Alright, hydration is important. Especially after a day of, um, soaking up the culture. Now, I wouldn't call it a full-blown bar, but they *do* have a lovely little setup where you can get a drink. Think carefully curated wines, local beers, and I noticed they had a pretty decent cocktail menu. I, uh, may or may not have sampled a few. For research purposes, obviously. And they were delicious. The ambiance is a little subdued...perfect for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap before you collapse into that oh-so-amazing bed.
Soundproofing? Yes, mostly. You're not going to hear your neighbors' snoring, which is a HUGE win. However, I did hear a particularly enthusiastic deer walk through the bush right next to the window when I was trying to take a afternoon nap. But hey, that's nature, right? And the staff did warn me about the local wildlife, so...my bad.
What’s the vibe? Is this a place for retirees only? Or is there… *life*?
Ooooh, good question. Honestly, I worried about this before I went. I was picturing… let’s just say, I was picturing a bunch of perfectly tanned, polo shirt-wearing people discussing the merits of cloud computing over a game of croquet. (I’m exaggerating, again, I swear.)
But no! The vibe is relaxed, welcoming, and *surprisingly* diverse. There were couples, families, solo travelers like myself (hey there!), and even a couple of groups of friends. Everyone was genuinely nice. (And not in a fake, forced-vacation-niceness way, either.) You can tell the staff is trying to make it accessible for all. So no, not just retirees. Thank goodness.
I actually think that's the key. The Inn is luxurious, yes, but it's not intimidating. You don't have to worry about your conversational skills improving before you go. You don't need that new designer outfit. You can just be… yourself. And if “yourself” is someone who enjoys a good breakfast and a comfortable bed, then you're in heaven.
What about the 'comfort' and the 'luxury' parts? Is it just fluffy pillows and overpriced soap?
Okay, let's talk about the *real* stuff. The comfort and the luxury. Yeah, the pillows are ridiculously fluffy. And yes, the soap is probably more expensive than my entire shopping trip. But it's much, much more than just that.
It's in the small details. The plush robes. The perfectly-placed reading light. The quietness. The absence of the daily grind. It's that feeling of truly being able to *relax*. They've thought of everything. Seriously.
And the service! The staff is attentive without being intrusive. They genuinely seem to care, they are helpful without fawning over you. It felt less like a hotel and more like being taken care of by friends who happened to have impeccable taste. It was honestly a *relief* to be pampered. After a miserable year, dealing with endless deadlines, the Inn was the therapy I needed.
You know what else? There was one night I couldn’t sleep (jet lag, my fault.) I wandered down to the communal fireplace, and I just… sat. No tv, no phone. Just the fire, the silence, and the feeling of *peace*. I won't tell you how long it lasted, but let’s just say it was long enough for me to finally start sleeping like a baby again. That’s luxury, right there.
Any dealbreakers? What did you *not* like?
Okay, okay, for the sake of an honest review, letBest Stay Blogspot
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