To the point
Check out Caroline's review of the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Key West at The Keys Collection hotel, which can be booked with Marriott Bonvoy points.
Key West: One human family
Key West is known for its pastel-coloured architecture, bohemian feel, beautiful sunsets and famous Key Lime pies!
Several years ago, my husband and I had only spent a few hours in Key West and in between bites of pie, we promised ourselves we would come back for more.
In these last days of the year and as a family this time, we have fulfilled this promise.
However, during this peak season, prices are also quite high throughout the Keys.
With a cost of about $500USD/night for a room, we were happy to redeem Marriott Bonvoy points – which we earned with the Marriott Bonvoy™ American Express® Card, among others – to pay for our stay.
When we booked last February, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Key West at The Keys Collection was the last Category 5 hotel in Key West (everything else was Category 6 and above) with the lowest point requirement.
That was the only reason we chose it. Marriott has since increased its category to 6 and a room there could be booked for 60,000 points per night, as we were there during the holidays (high season). And beware, there are 2 Fairfield Inns on the island!
After landing in Miami and spending a night at the Courtyard Key Largo Hotel, we drove to Key West.
Checking in
When we checked in, our room was ready and despite my kind request, I could not get a Platinum upgrade as the hotel was full.
The agent at the front desk was very friendly and offered us a drink made up of ice cream and slush as a welcome gift.
Winking at my youngest son, he said he would make cookies later and to come back for some. This did not fall on deaf ears.
In the lobby, there is also a concierge service available, who can book all possible excursions in the area.
Resort fees are prevalent at hotels in the city and this Fairfield Inn was no exception. They are US$24.95 per night and include:
- the shuttle bus that takes us directly to Mallory Square (one of the hubs in Key West),
- 2 alcoholic drinks,
- 2 popsicles,
- 2 bottles of water
- parking included, for each day.
As we were Marriott Bonvoy Platinum members, we had a discount and it cost us $14.95 US.
The room
We had a room with 2 queen size beds, including a mini fridge and microwave which served us well during our stay.
The bathroom was standard with all amenities.
The hotel itself
The hotel is like a motel style, with all rooms facing directly outside. All around the complex, the vegetation is lush!
And it is not uncommon to see an iguana walking around somewhere.
Or to hear a rooster crow at any time of the day and especially at night! Our sleep was affected by hearing these little beasts singing at any time but the hotel could do nothing as they are protected by law. This is not only the problem of this hotel but everywhere on the island. It is common to see cars simply stop for a hen and her young crossing the street.
The pool is always a favourite with the kids and is a must at every hotel we visit. There were also cabanas available to everyone at no extra charge. First come, first seated.
Next to the pool is the bar where we used our daily drink coupons.
There is a gym with some equipment divided into 3 small rooms.
And a laundry room is available to all.
At breakfast
Breakfast is served every morning and included for all guests. During the 3 mornings of our stay, the food offered was identical.
Bottom Line
This Fairfield Inn is far from downtown but the shuttle offered connects you to it in less than 20 minutes. You can also find a supermarket (Publix) at a little more than 1 kilometer from the hotel.
Choose to pay with the American Express Cobalt™ Card, which offers 5 points per dollar on grocery purchases, including international purchases!
For those who want to be close to the action and the bustling Duval Street, The Saint Hotel Key West – Autograph Collection is interesting. Further south on the island, next to the airport, is the Sheraton Suites Key West, which could also do very well.
Have fun tasting the Key Lime pies from the various restaurants and shops when you are in Key West. The one unanimously approved by the family is the one from Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe! Enjoy!
Come to discuss that topic in our Facebook Group!
