Courtyard by Marriott Port of Spain

As a contemporary chain hotel, the Courtyard by Marriott POS features decor typical to the brand and nondescript architecture. Staid patterned fabrics, polished wood laminate flooring, and IKEA-esque furniture creates an atmosphere that’s clean and crisp if a bit canned. Ultimately, the look and feel is quiet and reserved, with a slightly upmarket look that’s business-like and impersonal. The modern lobby is bright, airy, and connects to a larger lounge area with ample seating on orange armchairs and a flat-screen TV set among wooden bookshelves. Steps from the front desk, the outdoor pool and garden terrace provide ample additional space for guests to socialize near a water fountain and towering palm trees. The hotel is popular with business travelers, but families and couples stay here too. 

Courtyard by Marriott Port of Spain is situated on a well-traveled road that runs through downtown Port of Spain. The popular MovieTowne Complex, Hasely Crawford Stadium, and the city’s Port Authority are all within a five-minute walk, while Queen’s Park Savannah, Royal Botanic Gardens, and most other downtown attractions are within a 15-minute drive. Unfortunately, while the hotel is located on the water, the nearest swimmable beach, Maracas Beach, is more than an hour away by car. Parking at the hotel is provided for free in a secure outdoor lot. 

Piarco International Airport is a 40-minute drive from the hotel, however, the drive times increase substantially in inclement weather as downtown Port of Spain is prone to flooding. Like many comparable area hotels, Courtyard by Marriott does not provide guests with airport shuttle transportation. However, private shuttle transfer to and from the airport is readily available and can be a more affordable option, particularly for larger groups. Official taxi service is another option between the airport and hotel, and rates are fixed by the Trinidadian government. Tourists should always be cautious of private cab drivers and agree on a fixed fare in advance.

There aren't many surprises in the guest rooms here. They're modern and clean, and feature a safe color scheme typical of similar chain hotels -- navy blues, warm yellows, and subtle pops of color -- with beige walls surrounding ordinary brown desks, chairs, and beds. The look and feel is clean and cohesive, yet ultimately bland and unmemorable.

While all rooms are configured with either a single king or two queen beds, floor plans and amenities vary widely among the available seven room categories. Entry-level guest rooms feature free Wi-Fi, a large, flat-screen TV, and a mini-fridge. Free bottled water and a coffeemaker are a nice touch. Larger Executive Rooms and the One-Bedroom Suite King Balcony Rooms also feature a private balcony and whirlpool tub. One-Bedroom Suite King Sofa Rooms up the ante with all of the above, plus hardwood flooring, a full kitchen, and separate living and dining areas. Rooms overlook the parking lot or swimming pool.

The bathrooms in all rooms are modern. Generous use of dark wood plus beige tile and marble on the floor, walls, and countertops lends them a polished feel. Most bathrooms include a standard shower/tub combo, a hairdryer, and Paul Mitchell brand bath products. Executive Rooms and some One-Bedroom Suites feature a whirlpool tub and separate shower stall.

For a downtown property, this Courtyard by Marriott offers a solid list of both expected and nice-to-have amenities. The open concept lobby hall combines the hotel’s reception area, business center, The Centro restaurant and bar, and a dedicated lounge in a single, large communal space. The room opens to a large, beautiful garden terrace with a clean, if compact, pool. Rows of tall palm trees on all sides offer a decent amount of urban privacy and shaded lounge space throughout the day. While no poolside drink service is available, the nearby bar inside offers a full selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.

The hotel’s sole restaurant, The Centro, is a casual, bistro-style eatery that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The attached cafe offers la carte breakfast available for purchase, with a selection of specialty coffees, pastries, and hot breakfast items. However, prices are high compared to other area hotels. Lunch and dinner menus are an expected blend of local and Western dishes. Burgers, sandwiches, and bar favorites are offered alongside fried local fish and other Trinidadian seafood specialties. Curiously, there is no room service available, however, guests can order the food to-go and bring it to their rooms.

The modern, 24-hour gym is small but offers free weights and a handful of LifeFitness cardio machines, each with a private, flat-screen TV. There's a dedicated business area set with desktop computers, a printer, and free office supplies. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.