THE VIRGINIAN SUITES, ASCEND HOTEL COLLECTION, Arlington

The hotel sits in a residential area near the Iwo Jima Memorial, a short walk from the Rosslyn Metro station, which provides a quick connection to central Washington, D.C. For those with a vehicle, the property is accessible via highway, though GPS navigation can be inconsistent. The free weekday shuttle to the metro runs every 15 minutes. On weekends, the half-mile walk is manageable, but the surrounding hills make it strenuous with luggage. Uber and taxi services are available but may have trouble locating the hotel. The location is quiet and safe, but there are few restaurants or shops within walking distance, so planning a car or using delivery is advisable.

The hotel offers one-bedroom suites with generous floor plans featuring a separate bedroom with two queen beds and a living area with a pull-out sofa, sleeping up to five. Each suite includes a full kitchen with a full-sized refrigerator, stove, microwave, dishwasher, and cookware. Rooms have free air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a work desk, and a private bathroom. The property is older and many rooms show signs of wear, with older fixtures, stained carpets, and inconsistent cleanliness. Road-facing rooms can be noisy, and the in-room air conditioning units can be loud. The kitchenette is a strong asset for longer stays, allowing guests to prepare meals.

The paid breakfast includes scrambled eggs, sausage, potatoes, yogurt, cereals, bagels, and coffee, served on disposable plates. The hotel does not have a restaurant, bar, or room service, so dining options are limited. A free pizza night is held on Wednesdays, which is a popular cost-saving option. There are vending machines for drinks and snacks. The surrounding area has few dining establishments, but the hotel staff can recommend nearby off-site options or delivery services for those who prefer not to cook in the fully equipped kitchen.

The outdoor swimming pool operates seasonally and is ringed by a fence, with a lifeguard on duty during open hours. The fitness centre includes exercise equipment, though some machines have been reported as worn. There is also a free sauna, which requires 30 minutes advance notice to heat up. The Iwo Jima Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery are within a short walk, providing convenient leisure options.

The hotel provides free wired and wireless internet throughout the property. A free shuttle operates Monday through Friday, taking guests to the Rosslyn Metro station and nearby grocery stores. On-site parking is available for $14 per day. The facility includes a business centre with fax and photocopying services, meeting rooms, and a safety deposit box at the 24-hour front desk. A self-service laundry room with coin and credit card options is available for guest use. Pets are allowed, and the hotel provides pet bowls. The front desk holds packages for arrivals and offers luggage storage. Wheelchair access is via ramps, but the main entrance has a few steps.