DESERT PALMS HOTEL & SUITES ANAHEIM RESORT, Anaheim

All rooms include a refrigerator, microwave, cable TV, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a private bathroom, ironing facilities, tea and coffee facilities, and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. Suites add a separate sitting area and a kitchenette with a stove top in some units. The bunk-bed suites feature a separate kids' room and can accommodate up to six guests. Road-facing rooms are significantly noisier due to traffic, sirens, and hallway activity - light sleepers should request a room away from the street. Soundproofing between rooms is minimal; footfall from the upper floor and noise from adjacent bathrooms can be heard. Sofa beds have a support bar that can be uncomfortable for sleeping. The air-conditioning system is centrally set and cannot be lowered below 20°C / 21 °C, which feels too warm for some. The building has two elevators, but one is frequently out of service, causing wait times.

Breakfast runs from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM daily. The buffet includes scrambled eggs, sausage, make-your-own waffles, toast, yogurt, fresh apples and oranges, canned fruit, cereal, and a salsa bar. The food is simple and consistent, suited for a quick start before a day at the parks. Gluten-free options are clearly labeled. The breakfast seating area has both indoor and outdoor tables, the latter offering a view of the park. Breakfast is served on paper plates with plastic utensils - requesting extra napkins or lids is wise. The property does not operate its own restaurant or room service, but dozens of dining options - including pizza, Mexican, bistro, and café - are within a 5-minute walk.

The outdoor swimming pool is heated and open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. It has a shallow end suitable for children and is surrounded by sun loungers. The adjacent hot tub is a popular post-park unwind spot. The fitness centre is compact with limited cardio equipment and free weights. For families wanting downtime without leaving the property, the pool area is a practical option, though it can feel a little enclosed. The hotel also offers a minimarket on site for snacks and drinks.

The reception is staffed around the clock and can assist with Disneyland ticket purchases. Luggage storage is available free of charge, useful for early arrivals or late departures. The business centre offers free use of a computer, printer, and fax/photocopying for a fee. Meeting/banquet facilities are also available. An ATM and a minimarket are on site. Safety features include CCTV, key card access, and in-room safes. Electric vehicle charging stations are located in the garage. Laundry facilities are available for a fee, but detergent must be provided separately. Pets are not permitted. The housekeeping model is limited: towels are replaced and bins emptied daily, but full room cleaning and bed-making are only done upon request or after a four-day interval.