Swann House — Hotel in Washington

Uncompassionate and Unaccommodating: A Nightmarish Experience

Review:

Our recent encounter with Swann House was nothing short of a nightmare, tarnished by their outright lack of empathy and inflexibility. Life can be unpredictable, and unfortunately, we found ourselves stranded with a broken-down car, unable to make it to the bed and breakfast we had eagerly anticipated staying at. Despite our desperate situation, the management at Swann House proved to be utterly unsympathetic and rigid in their policies.

Firstly, it's important to highlight the exorbitant cost we had already incurred for this stay. At over $400 per night, one would expect a level of customer service that matches the price tag. However, we were gravely mistaken. When we informed the establishment of our predicament, hoping for a modicum of understanding or at least a partial refund, we were met with a cold and unyielding refusal. Not only were they unwilling to reimburse us for the night we couldn't spend there, but they also refused to consider any form of compensation for the additional parking fees we had prepaid.

The refusal to offer any sort of compromise or gesture of goodwill in such a distressing situation is a glaring testament to the management's lack of compassion and customer care. Travel plans can go awry for various reasons, and a reputable hospitality establishment should recognize this and act accordingly. Swann House chose to prioritize their bottom line over basic human decency, leaving us out of pocket and deeply disappointed.

Furthermore, the complete absence of any attempt to make alternative arrangements or offer another night’s stay added insult to injury. This rigid stance not only reflects poorly on their business practices but also on their overall attitude towards guests who might find themselves in unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances.

In summary, our experience with Swann House was a harsh lesson in how not to treat customers. The refusal to provide any sort of refund or accommodation adjustment was not only financially damaging but also incredibly disheartening. For those considering a stay here, be warned: should anything go wrong, don't expect an ounce of empathy or flexibility from this establishment. Your money is better spent at a place that values and respects its guests, especially in...

I booked this when there were concept images due to renovation. I had an idea what the expect, but I really was not prepared. We were first surprised when the day of check in we received a note at 11am "sorry we missed you for check in" when check in wasn't until 3pm. This was also after I spoke with the Swann House earlier that morning confirming our arrival during the check in time stated. When we did arrive, we were greeting saying we couldn't park in the limited driveway to empty our car, but after a quick conversation we were told it was ok for 5min. The front stairs were steep, as were the stairs to the second floor. We received a whirlwind tour before she left for the night. The room was lacking in useable outlets, especially near the bed for phone/watch charging and medical devices. For a few month old bed it was uncomfortable and very low. We had a "wet room" for the shower/bath that we were grateful each day we did not slip and hurt ourselves as the wet marble was difficult to walk on and there were no grab bars or anything. Breakfast was a continental buffet with someone coming in and out periodically but not to take orders, there were also no signs or anything obvious what to do with your used plates/cups/cutlery. I appreciated that they let me fix a tray to bring up to my spouse who was still getting ready despite breakfast hours being done. After a day filled with walking, getting up both sets of stairs took effort. This is not for anyone out of shape or with any issues like poor ankles/knees/hips or arthritis/fibromyalgia. This is definitely more for the young than middle aged. I shouldn't dread going back to my lodging at the end of the day. There were no obvious accommodations for anyone with disabilities - there were no ramps or elevators. The 'walls' were thin, that the upstairs guest with a small energetic child left little to the imagination between their running around, watching tv, and the family chatting with each other, which did not offer a relaxing space. For the price I paid - more than the average hotel in the area during that time frame - the Swann House was a...

We stayed at the Swann House for a wedding in August and were absolutely blown away. The the hospitality was exceptional from the moment we arrived. 10/10 recommend onsite parking - it made check-in a breeze! The we were greeted with a champagne / sparkling cider tour (I'm pregnant!), and the house is even more stunning in person. Truly feels like I stepped into an Anthropoligoie catalogue!

They had every amenity you can imagine—from bath bombs, robes, air diffusers, bedside chocolate, slippers, and a custom relaxation playlists to poolside bug spray and sunscreen. Each afternoon, there were snacks with cucumber water with a curated selection of local wine and beer available upon request. We loved lounging in the solarium with a drink and reading by the pool!

The breakfasts were fresh, gourmet, and home-made. I am lactose intolerant and they made sure to have plenty of well labeled dairy free options at for me! In a sunlit dinning room, we enjoyed fresh smoothies and coffee, steak and eggs, mini quiches, a selection of pastries (husband loved the muffins), fruit, and the most delicious homemade cinnamon applesauce. I loved it SO much the owner Christine gave me a massive jar home!

The location is unbeatable—just steps from DC’s coolest restaurants, shops, and bars. Our top highlights included Solid State Books, Jane Jane, and the rooftop bar at Players Club -- all of which we walked to!

Our room (no. 6) was quiet, cozy, and beautiful. Also the bathtub situation is magnificent! It felt like bathing in a cathedral. We were so tired after the wedding that we ordered snacks and watched movies and stashing leftovers was no problem with the sizable mini fridge (pregnant lady approved!). Every detail was thoughtful and photo-worthy. Truly an oasis!

1000% book Swann House- it turned our small weekend trip into a full-blown vacation. We are already planning...