COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT HOUSTON GALLERIA, Houston

Located directly across from the renowned Galleria shopping center, the hotel places you within a five-minute walk of over 200 shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The Houston city centre, including the George R. Brown Convention Center and NRG Stadium, is a 15-minute drive away, and the museum district is about 8 km. The surrounding area is quiet and well-rated, with numerous dining choices such as Sage 400 Japanese Cuisine and Ruth's Chris Steak House nearby. While there is no airport shuttle, the on-site garage parking (US$25/day) offers convenient car access.

Rooms are available as standard King or Queen/Queen configurations, as well as Executive rooms and suites. All include air conditioning, a seating area, flat-screen cable TV, refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities, and an iPod docking station. Executive rooms add a microwave. Galleria-view rooms are available and higher floors provide area views. Connecting rooms can be requested but not guaranteed. Furnishings are functional; some units show wear. Beds are firm and comfortable. The property is entirely non-smoking.

The Bistro offers American cuisine for breakfast (US$20 per person) and dinner, with a cocktail hour. Breakfast is served Monday-Friday 6:30-10:00, Saturday-Sunday 7:00-11:00; dinner daily 17:00-22:00. The Bistro also offers kids' meals, wine/champagne, and fruits. The food is freshly prepared, with a popular burger. Starbucks coffee is available at the lobby coffee shop but is not complimentary.

The indoor pool is heated and open year-round, with a shallow end, but is limited to 50% occupancy and closes at 7pm. The fitness centre features two treadmills, an elliptical machine, a stationary bike, and free weights. A golf course is within 3 km. There is no spa, hot tub, or jacuzzi.

Other services include a 24-hour front desk, express check-in/check-out, free luggage storage, and an ATM on site. Daily housekeeping is provided, while laundry and dry cleaning incur additional charges. The business centre includes computers and printing (free) but may have availability issues. Meeting/banquet facilities are available for a fee. The property is wheelchair accessible with a lift and accessible parking. Pets are not allowed. Safety features include key card access, smoke alarms, and a safety deposit box at reception. Accepted payment includes major credit cards and debit cards, which require a US$25 daily incidental hold.