My company has used the Desmond as our hotel in Albany for almost 5 years now. It is still quite unique. The guest rooms surround a large enclosed courtyard area that is used for banquets and other large gatherings year round. Want an "outdoor" wedding or convention in winter in Albany? You can do it (sort of) with the Desmond.

Prior to the large scale renovations, the Desmond had an early American/ Old English feel to it, including the tavern and restaurant. I have eaten in the bar and restaurant many times and while it isn't inexpensive (what hotel restaurant is?) the food is of very good quality and taste. I've never had anything bad at the Desmond in terms of food.

The renovation of the rooms was sorely needed and is much appreciated. Gone are the tall, four post beds (with their stiff mattresses) and large TV cabinets, replaced with modern furnishings. Everything is new and modern and much improved in terms of comfort and usability. Customer service, always a Desmond hallmark, is still very good, which is not true in many places now.

But, as usual, with advancement comes loss. Prior to the renovation, The Desmond was known as "Grandmas House" by those at our company. It looked like the last true update had been about 1992 and was something my Greatest Generation grandparents would have deemed "classy". It felt like you were at grandmas house and there was a certain charm and comfort to the old decor and style.

The place had a soul and when you spend 150+ days on the road in cookie cutter hotels, it was a nice change, even if it was dated. Having to fit IHG/Crowne Plaza standards has ripped the soul from the Desmond.

It's a much better property, much more fashionable and comfortable and I can't recommend it enough. But I miss the soul of the old property. ( End rant.)