They say everything is bigger in Texas, and the suites at the Royal Sonesta are no exception. Our modern, one-bedroom corner suite gave us views over the concrete jungle and wanton urbanity that is Houston – we could have easily watched the world go by from our rooms all day and all night, but with the property’s positioning in the Galleria District and an absolutely enormous ‘Simon’ luxury mall just a short drive away (it’s actually walking distance, but Houston’s huge streets doesn’t make it very pedestrian friendly – and that’s before you account for the searing heat) it’s the perfect base for some retail therapy. The property doesn’t have a club lounge, but special guests receive vouchers for happy hour, inclusive of “light snacks” in the property’s bar (which turned out to be a whole Tex-Mex meal) plus unlimited drinks. We would describe the service as regimental, perhaps aimed more to meet the expectations of business travellers rather than those coming for leisure. This is reflected in the property’s pool area, which we felt was disappointing and unloved for a hotel of this size. The adjoining fitness centre was larger and much better in comparison.
