El Rey Court: Your Santa Fe Dream Getaway Awaits!
El Rey Court: My Santa Fe "Almost" Dream Getaway – A Messy, Honest Review!
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Okay, listen up, because El Rey Court, Santa Fe… Well, it’s a vibe. And not always the exactly the vibe you expect, you know? This place isn’t just a hotel; it's a quirky, retro-chic, sun-drenched experience… with just a few… hiccups. Buckle up, because here's the unvarnished truth, from a self-proclaimed travel chaos-coordinator who lived (and loved, and occasionally hated) their stay.
Accessibility: The Good & The "Almost" Great
First off, shoutout to El Rey for trying. They've got facilities for disabled guests, and that’s immediately major points. Wheelchair accessible rooms are available (though, full disclosure, I didn't personally use one, so I'm relying on reports – always contact the hotel directly for specifics). The grounds are relatively flat, which is a win in hilly Santa Fe. Elevator access is available, which is a huge help.
BUT. And there’s always a “but,” right? I wish I could give a 100% thumbs up. I heard the paths could be a little uneven in places, so be sure to double-check specifics with the hotel if accessibility is paramount. And, frankly, I would've liked to hear about how the front desk staff handles requests for those rooms, like how they are ready to assist.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe, But Not Squeaky Clean
Okay, this is where things got a little… mixed. On the safety front, El Rey definitely gets a thumbs up. CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside the property, 24-hour security, smoke alarms, and fire extinguishers everywhere. You feel secure.
Now, the clean. While they boast about daily disinfection in common areas, anti-viral cleaning products, and professional-grade sanitizing services, I'm gonna be real with you: I saw a spider in my room. A tiny, inconsequential spider, mind you, but still… a spider. And that's how I know it wasn't squeaky clean but a cozy, comfy space. I’m also a huge fan of the opt-out sanitization option, or for that matter, the option to sanitize my own room!
However, they are taking things seriously. Staff trained in safety protocol and hand sanitizer galore. Rooms sanitized between stays, which is reassuring. Hot water linen and laundry washing, individually-wrapped food options… they’re trying. They’re really, really trying.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: From So-So to Soul-Satisfying!
This is a category with highs and lows. Let's start with the restaurants. There is one, and its a good one. I loved the breakfast [buffet], (though I heard there were some vegetarian, and Asian options, in case breakfast is not your thing). The poolside bar is a MUST. Sipping a margarita under the New Mexico sun? Pure bliss.
But… the food at the restaurant? A little… inconsistent. Some dishes were divine (that salad? Chef's kiss!), others… well, let's just say I've had better. I'm not a huge fan of the a la carte in restaurant menu myself. But don't fret, because the bar made up for it. The happy hour was a good time, nice drinks, and fun atmosphere.
The snack bar or convenience store is a saving grace. You'll want a bottle of water, an ice cream, or a bag of chips? Bingo! You got it.
Services and Conveniences: Plenty of Perks, But a Few Quirks
Alright, let's be honest. El Rey Court is packed with amenities. Daily housekeeping is a lifesaver; luggage storage is handy. Dry cleaning and laundry service, if you need them. Concierge available, which is always fantastic. Cash withdrawal at the desk. The gift/souvenir shop is cute.
But I have to call out the internet situation. They boast free Wi-Fi in all rooms, which is great! However, and it can be a fairly important however, the speed fluctuated. I needed to do some work, and the connection was just… slow. It was a bummer. This is where essential condiments come in, as I needed to pour one on my impatience.
The business facilities are available, which is great for those of you who are here for meetings, seminars, or just to work.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa Lovers, Rejoice! (Mostly)
This is where El Rey really shines. For starters: Swimming pool [outdoor] is gorgeous, and that pool with a view is where I spent about half my trip, soaking up the sun and the Santa Fe vibes.
The spa/sauna is awesome, so if you are a spa lover like me, you found a great place to be. I indulged in a massage, and I can confirm it was heavenly. They offer other treatments as well, like body scruds and body wraps, or even foot baths!
But here's a little slice of my messy, human experience. The steam room, while lovely, felt a little neglected. And the fitness center? Modest, let's say. But hey, Santa Fe is all about being outdoors, anyway.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly, With a Caveat
El Rey is on the family-friendly side, with options like babysitting service, and kids meal, which is nice. However, it's more of a "laid-back family" vibe, not a "kid-centric resort" kind of place.
Rooms: Cozy, Retro, and… Imperfectly Perfect
Alright, let's get into the details of the room itself. I'm talking about that Air conditioning for those hot Santa Fe days, which you will need. Bathrobes are a nice touch. Blackout curtains? Lifesaver! Coffee/tea maker? Essential. Complimentary tea? Delicious. Mini bar? Always welcome.
Now, the imperfections. The decor is fantastic. Think bold colors, vintage furniture, and a serious dose of personality. It's stylish, but the rooms aren't exactly soundproof. And, the room was a bit darker than I expected, some of the lights didn't work, and sometimes the plumbing did goofy things. But, and this is important, it felt like a home.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy, But Consider the Uber
Airport transfer is available, which is super convenient. Car park [free of charge] makes things easy. They even have a car power charging station which is wonderful. You can also hail a taxi service, or use valet parking, but be prepared to pay.
The Verdict: Worth It, Quirks and All!
Look, El Rey Court isn't perfect. It's got its quirks. It might not be the shiniest, most polished, most flawless hotel in Santa Fe. But that's precisely what makes it charming!
Is it a dream getaway? Almost. For me, it was a fantastic, character-filled, slightly messy (and I loved the imperfections) Santa Fe escape.
I'd recommend it, absolutely. Just go in with realistic expectations, a sense of adventure, and a willingness to embrace the occasional… well, the occasional quirk. You'll be rewarded with a truly memorable stay. And trust me, you'll leave with stories to tell!
Escape to Locust Grove: Your Perfect Super 8 Getaway!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to get real messy in Santa Fe. Forget perfectly curated Instagram feeds – this is going to be a travel diary of chaos, joy, and maybe a near-meltdown over a particularly spicy green chile. We're talking El Rey Court, my temporary desert palace, and the experiences that shaped my… well, let’s just say they happened.
The El Rey Court & Santa Fe: A Hot Mess Express (But the Good Kind)
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Confusion of the Map
3:00 PM - Arrival at El Rey Court (Check-in Nightmare - The Best kind)
Okay, so I’d seen the photos, the dreamy, minimalist vibes, the turquoise doors. I thought, “Ah, peace. I’ll just glide in, unpack, and become one with the southwest.” HAH. Turns out, “gliding in” involved a minor existential crisis in the parking lot. My rental car, affectionately nicknamed “The Clunker,” was clearly arguing with me, as if possessed by a minor demon, about the proper angle to squeeze into a space. I finally conquered the beast, and then… the front desk. It was delightful, but there was a huge line and there's also a wedding going on, (which I found out later). I felt like a total peasant but the nice dude at the front desk finally gave me my room. I was almost too emotional to even remember, which room I had (it was 123, btw). The relief of finally being in, in the cool, calming shadow of courtyard after the drive? Priceless.
Anode: Did I immediately drop my phone somewhere and spend 10 minutes frantically searching for it? Maybe… but I've found it! I love this place, even the wedding part!
4:00 PM - Room Reconnaissance.
The room! O M G. The "minimalist" vibe, when it comes to hotel room décor, is basically, "Okay, let's put a bed and a side table and call it a day." Which..I like. The sunlight? Divine. The tiny, perfectly curated bathroom? Adorable. The… noise from the wedding, though? Less adorable. But hey, what can you do? I unpacked with more enthusiasm than I’ve ever unpacked a suitcase, and spent the next hour just… breathing. Trying to absorb the desert energy, the very, very hot desert energy.
Anecdote: Tried to open the curtains, ended up somehow partially dislodging the curtain rod. That’s me. That’s my relationship with home décor.
6:00 PM - First Green Chile Experience.
So, everyone says Santa Fe green chile is a religious experience. I'm not sure I'm ready to subscribe to a new religion based on peppers, but I was hungry. Walked to a nearby restaurant - which I shall not name, because my experience was… mixed. The waitress gave me a look, one she probably gives every tourist like me. I'd go back for the food again.
Emotional Reaction: My mouth was on fire! Truly. But it was a good fire. A delicious, slightly torturous fire. And I could tell I was becoming one of those annoying green chile converts.
8:00 PM - Stumbling Through the Night Market
I tried! Really I did. I wanted to be a cool, cultured traveler exploring the night market. But it was hot, and I was tired, and the crowd? It felt like being thrown into a washing machine. I was overwhelmed! I barely managed to buy a turquoise bracelet that I am pretty sure is fake but, come on, the vibes! So I called it a night and stumbled back to my room.
9:00 PM - Falling Asleep Immediately
Yeah. That happened. Passed out cold. The desert air… It will knock you out.
Day 2: Art, Anxiety, and the Greatest Coffee of My Life
8:00 AM - The Awakening (and The Coffee that Saved Me)
Woke up feeling surprisingly refreshed, despite the wedding noise last night, and the slight existential dread of being alone in a new city. Coffee was a necessity. And the coffee shop was down the street. I tell you, I'd do almost anything for the guy who made the coffee. The barista gave me a smile. That coffee, my friends…it was life-altering. I'm talking, "I'm going to move to Santa Fe and become a barista myself" life-altering. Quirky Observation: Not to be dramatic, but I think I found my soulmate, and he’s made of coffee beans.
9:00 AM - Canyon Road Art Crawl
Okay, Canyon Road. It’s the art scene. It's just so much art. And I'm not going to lie: I got a major case of “imposter syndrome” walking through the galleries. I felt like everyone else was an art expert, and I was… well, me. Eventually, I gave up on pretending to know anything and just looked at the pretty things. I did see a ridiculous statue of an overweight cat. I loved it. *Rambling: Okay, so the art was amazing, but it's also exhausting. It’s like, "Look at this beautiful thing!" *five* times, you know? Eventually, I just needed a bench and a bottle of water.*
12:00 PM - Lunch & a Spiritual Crisis
Lunch at a cafe. I ate a beautiful salad. I contemplated the meaning of life. I found a quote about wanderlust. I realized I was totally alone. I did not actually have a spiritual crisis… but it was close. Stronger Emotional Reaction: I was so incredibly lonely for a moment. Travel is great, but sometimes the solitude hits you, you know? It's the flip side of freedom.
2:00 PM - A Hike (and the Threat of Death by Cactus)
I swear, I’m not a hiker. But the brochure said, "breathtaking views." Okay, fine. So I went on a short hike. I was unprepared. The sun was vicious and the path was rocky. Almost stepped on a rattlesnake. I mean, the view was pretty amazing. Messier Structure: Okay, so, I’m going to be honest. A cactus almost got me. I swear. I got too close, tripped over a rock and nearly embedded myself in pointy needles. My face was red, my heart was racing, and I probably looked like a complete idiot. But hey, I’m alive!
6:00 PM - Pool Time (and the Great Sunburn)
El Rey Court has a pool! The thought of it was sheer bliss after the heat. Except, I forgot sunscreen. And I’m a pale person. So, a few hours later I was red, and then I spent the night in bed, regretting everything.
Day 3: Goodbye, Santa Fe. (and a Promise to Return)
9:00 AM - Farewell Breakfast & a New Kind of Sadness
One last, delicious breakfast. The coffee shop. The barista. The croissant. It was like a sad symphony of deliciousness. I felt like I was leaving a piece of myself behind. Opinionated Language: I'm going to say it: El Rey Court is the bee's knees. It's not perfect. It's not pretentious. It's real. And that's why I loved it.
10:00 AM - Check Out & Drive Away
The check-out process was smooth. The goodbyes felt bittersweet. The drive home. I was exhausted. But I was happy.
Stream-of-Consciousness: I came here searching for something. I don't know what. And the thing is, I didn't actually find it. But I kind of did. This place? It gets under your skin. I'll be back, Santa Fe. You haven’t seen the last of me. And El Rey Court, you beautiful, quirky haven… I’ll be dreaming of you. And the coffee.
El Rey Court: Santa Fe - Seriously, Is it THAT Good? Let's Unpack This...
Okay, Spill It. What *Actually* IS El Rey Court? Is It Just a Fancy Motel?
Alright, buckle up. "Fancy motel" is one way to put it. Think… a vintage roadside motel, the kind you’d find shimmering in the desert heat, but *seriously* upgraded. Imagine a place where the ghosts of Route 66 haven't completely faded, but they’ve been given a fresh coat of vibrant, Santa Fe-inspired paint. Think courtyards, adobe walls, and enough turquoise accents to make your Instagram feed weep with joy. And yes, there's a pool. A *glorious* pool.
Honestly, it’s more like a little village. Each room is different. Some are HUGE - like, could-host-a-small-yoga-retreat huge. Others are cozy, more for snuggling up with a good book (and maybe a margarita). It's really the *vibe* that matters: laid-back, stylish, and effortlessly cool. No stuffy hotel chains here. Just character for miles.
The Rooms: Worth the Hype? My OCD Is Screaming for Cleanliness...
Alright, let's talk about the rooms. And yes, cleanliness is key. The good news? They're generally spotless. The not-so-good-news? Remember I said “vintage roadside”? Meaning, I *personally* found little signs of wear-and-tear. A slight chip here, a wonky door there. Nothing major, nothing that ruined the vibe, but if you're expecting sterile perfection, maybe invest in industrial-strength Clorox wipes for your own peace of mind.
BUT! The beds? Oh, sweet, sweet bed. I could have happily spent the entire trip sprawled out, listening to the cicadas and staring at the (usually clean) stucco ceiling. The decor is gorgeous. Think vibrant rugs, bold colors, and artwork that actually *feels* like Santa Fe. They're the kind of rooms you want to actually *live* in, not just sleep in. I especially loved the little patio outside my room - perfect for morning coffee and plotting world domination (or at least planning the day’s adventures). And the bathrooms? Modern and well-appointed. I'm not going to lie, I'm a sucker for a good shower, and these hit the spot.
The Pool. Is the Pool Actually Paradise?
Okay, the pool. Let's talk about the pool. This is where El Rey Court REALLY shines. Picture this: shimmering turquoise water, surrounded by adobe walls and lush greenery. The sun is beating down, you're sipping a margarita (from the bar, obviously!), and the only sounds are the gentle lapping of the water and the happy chatter of other guests. It's… pretty darn close to paradise.
Now, here's a confession: on my first visit, I was slightly *underwhelmed*. It was busy! Kids splashing! (GASP!) Not the serene oasis I'd envisioned. But the next day? Magic. Perfect weather, a few quiet moments to myself, and a deep, almost religious, feeling of relaxation. It’s worth the potential for a little busyness. It's the heart of El Rey, the place where everyone gathers, and the place you'll probably want to spend most of your time. Seriously. It's that good.
Food, Glorious Food! What Are My Eating Options?
El Rey doesn’t have a full-blown restaurant, which is a shame because when you're relaxed, you REALLY don't want to drive anywhere. BUT! They've got a fantastic snack bar/cafe that's open for breakfast and lunch with the best breakfast burritos in the STATE! (Okay, maybe I exaggerate, but they're *really* good.) They also have a fantastic bar that serves delicious (and strong) cocktails. Great for a quick bite poolside.
Beyond that, you're in Santa Fe, baby! Amazing restaurants are everywhere. Just a short drive away (or even a walk!) are some of the best dining experiences of your life. Ask the front desk for recommendations. They’re genuinely helpful and not afraid to share their favorites. They'll probably point you toward some amazing local spots. I highly recommend getting out and exploring the city's culinary scene. Don't just stick to the hotel!
How's the Location? Is it Close to Everything?
Okay, the location is *pretty* good. It’s not smack-dab in the historic plaza (which is the main tourist hub), which can be a blessing or a curse. You won't be tripping over tour groups, but you will need a car or a taxi (or a very energetic pair of legs) to get to the main attractions. It's a short, fairly easy drive to the Plaza, Canyon Road (the art district), and all the major museums.
I actually liked being a little bit removed. It gave me a sense of peace and quiet that I wouldn’t have gotten right in the thick of things. Plus, it’s easy to get out of town and explore the gorgeous surrounding countryside. But be honest with yourself: if you *absolutely* must be able to walk everywhere, El Rey might not be the perfect choice. But if you're willing to drive a few minutes, you're golden.
Parking: Pain in the Butt or Smooth Sailing?
Parking is… okay. It's free, which is a major win. But the lot can fill up, especially during peak season. I had to circle a few times on one occasion. Nothing catastrophic, but it's something to keep in mind, especially if you're arriving late in the evening. Be patient. Eventually, a spot will open up. Then high-five yourself for winning the parking lottery.
Is El Rey Court Kid-Friendly? I'm Traveling with Mini-Humans...
Yes, mostly! I did see families there. The pool is a big draw for kids. However, it's not a "kiddie resort." There aren't dedicated playgrounds or kids' clubs. If your tiny humans need constant entertainment, you may want to explore a more kid-centric option. But for families who appreciate style and a more relaxed atmosphere, El Rey can work. It’s a place where you can RELAX while your kids are having FUN.
The Price: Will it Break the Bank?
El Rey Court is not a budget option. It's not *insanely* expensive, either. Depending on the season and the room, you're looking at a mid-range price point. It's an investment, but in my opinion, the experience is worth it. You're paying for the unique ambiance, the fantastic pool, and the overall experience of staying in a place that feels genuinely special. Check their website for rates and deals. They often run promotions. Consider booking in advanceBook Hotels Now
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