Arena Hotel San Jose

The Arena hotel in San Jose should be renamed the Milk and Cookies B,B&D, or something like that. The 'B,B&D' is for Bed, Breakfast & Dinner - Since that's what the Arena offers, with the food being complimentary. 'Milk and Cookies' because everything about this hotel is as sweet as apple pie, starting from the cherriness of the front desk to the 'you name it and we'll get it' attitude of their concierge, not to mention the complimentary amenities and friendly tips that the staff have for guests who need directions or some pointers about local attractions and dining facilities.

Point is, regardless of what else the Arena hotel offers, or does not, this kind of excellent service and customer friendly attitude is exactly what makes for a good hotel, and a good stay for guests. Personalized service is also what you cannot expect, and usually do not get, from the big San Jose family hotels with hundreds of rooms like a Hilton.

The Arena is conviniently located within walking distance of downtown San Jose and the HP Pavilion (http://www.hppsj.com/). Amenities provided include free wi-fi internet, laundry and same day dry cleaning, rolloaway beds and cribs on request, complimentary breakfast everyday and complimentary dinners from Monday to Thursday, and a business center with meeting areas.

The 89 guest rooms and suites at the Arena are well furnished and equipped with cable TV, refrigirator, microwave, coffee maker, iron & ironing board, hairdryer and a two person jacuzzi. Some rooms also have a full kitchenette. This is on top of the complimentary breakfast and dinner the hotel offers. Far as I can remember, I haven't seen any other hotel in California which offers free breakfast and dinner. Room rates start at around $99 per night and a suite goes for around $119. Your stay in San Jose is going to cost you between $100 to $120 a day, and that's with family. Which is not a bad deal, anyway you look at it.

Info: 817 The Alameda San Jose CA 95126; (408) 294-6500; www.pacifichotels.com/arena