There seems to be some questions about The Concourse Hotel at LAX here and elsewhere. In addition to answering a few of those, I stayed there again recently and have some more information to share.
LAX sign near hotel via Flickr Creative Commons license
Since my first stay soon after the rebranding from Radisson, it seems the property is getting better integrated with Hyatt and Gold Passport systems. When I checked in this time, my Hyatt Diamond status was acknowledged, and they mentioned that breakfast charges from the restaurant would be removed from my bill.
A large suite, for free
My room was again assigned on the top floor facing the southern terminals at LAX. This time I was straight across from the elevator bank. I was surprised to notice that my room layout was much different than last time. That’s because I was given a suite upgrade for for free. The room was approximately double the width of a standard room, with some of that space being used up by the stairwell. Yes, the interior was pretty dated, but the free suite upgrade was a nice surprise. This is pretty unusual for Hyatt hotels in my experience. Since Hyatt has a system to confirm suite upgrades in advance, they rarely give them away for free.
The furnishings and decor were similar to the room I was given during my first stay at this property. Pretty old, but perfectly fine, especially for a short overnight stay.
The Sleep Number remote worked this time, so the bed was adjustable. Some other items have been rebranded, such as the room keys, which now have the current branding, but other things are still old with temporary signage.
A business card taped over the Radisson logo on the phone
I only spent about 8 hours at the hotel, and most of that was sleeping so I didn’t check out the property beyond my room.
Spacious suite at the Concourse Hotel at LAX
Rather elaborate headboard, looks like something from a grandmother’s house from the 1970s
I did go up one floor to the Penthouse level out of curiosity. There used to be a restaurant there, but now it seems to be used only for meetings. There were various conference rooms with large windows and nice views of the airport.
Breakfast at Palmyra
I also took advantage of the breakfast benefit before leaving in the morning. It is served at Palmira restaurant attached to the lobby. There are buffet options including hot items plus a continental breakfast. Items can be ordered off the menu as well. To save time I just opted for the buffet. There were multiple hot options, including bacon, sausage, hash browns, roasted potatoes, corn beef hash, and pancakes. A selection of breakfast breads plus juices and fruit made for more than enough food for me. Just like this hotel; nothing special, but perfectly functional, and it served its purpose.
Despite the changes going from Radisson to Hyatt, the hotel seemed to be relatively busy. In fact it was full on the night of this stay. This led to lines for both checking in and checking out. Typically I don’t bother stopping by the front desk if I can check out online or even if I have a correct version of my bill. There was no bill I could get or a way to check out online, so I had to wait in line to check out. An annoyance, but nothing major, and the line lasted only a few minutes. Hopefully as more Hyatt integration comes online, some of these lines can be avoided.
Easy walk to terminals at LAX
I was departing from Terminal 7, so I again walked across Sepulveda Boulevard and underneath Century Boulevard to get to the airport. This time I stopped for a moment to reflect at the small memorial attached to a flag pole dedicated to the victims of the tragedy of September 11, 2001. Of course, 3 of the 4 ill-fated planes were bound for LAX.
9/11 Memorial at LAX
Despite the old decor, I’d definitely return to this hotel if the prices is right. I’d have not problem recommending it to others, with proper expectations. More options are always a good thing, so I’m glad to have such a convenient location for a hotel where I can earn Hyatt Gold Passport points near LAX. For Hyatt Diamonds, the hotel now comps breakfast and maybe even occasionally provides free upgrades.
Note, this hotel has been renovated and rebranded as the Hyatt Regency Los Angeles Airport.
