This hotel has been my home away from home for quite a while. While I travel around the country, the Renaissance Dallas Richardson Hotel is by far and away my favorite place to stay. The rooms, lobby and fitness room are spacious and well appointed. However, what sets this location above and beyond any other hotel I have experienced is the staff. In fact, this hotel's staff easily rivals and often exceeds the level of service I have found at Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, Westin, Wyndham, Marriott, and other chain and boutique hotels.

On each visit, I have looked forward to seeing the welcoming faces at the front desks. Rose, in particular, has gone out of her way to ensure that my colleagues and I experience excellence with every visit. Jennifer, Tejal, Anthony, Tawara, Tony, David, Everett, Smitty and so many others I can't remember all the names have also been a pleasure to interact with.

In the morning, Cathy ensures that each of us start our days with a hot breakfast and a cheerful chat in the concierge room. Her counterpart Kim is accommodating in the evenings with hors d'oeuvres, dessert and conversation. The restaurant is one the locals ought to be crowding as the service; menu and wine list are sure to satisfy all. Never before have I noticed housekeeping and maintenance people who return (or even initiate) a smile in the hallway. And, no matter how hot, cold, or otherwise miserable the weather may be, the valets hustle to provide friendly and efficient service.

A commitment to customer service clearly permeates each individual's approach to completing every task. This sort of culture is difficult to foster (often an unattainable goal) and requires constant encouragement from above. The management team at this location has clearly selected the right people, provided superior training and led by example.

While a change in my career ends my travel to this area, this is a hotel I will recommend to anyone and be sure to frequent should I ever return. I hope the example set by this staff will be studied and replicated throughout the Marriott family of hotels and resorts. I will miss the people that I have come to consider my friends.