Olympic Valley's BEST Kept Secret: Olympic Village Inn!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because here we go – my totally unfiltered, possibly slightly manic, deep dive into the Olympic Village Inn: Olympic Valley's "BEST Kept Secret." And trust me, after this, you’ll either be sprinting to book or running for the hills. Let's dive in!
Forget the PR Fluff: This is the Real Deal (…Maybe?)
First off, let me just say, Olympic Valley is GORGEOUS. Like, jaw-on-the-floor gorgeous. And the Inn? Well, it's there. It's definitely in Olympic Valley. Okay, okay, I’m getting ahead of myself. Let’s unpack this beast, starting with…
Access and… Accessibility (because, duh)
Alright, let's be real. I’m not in a wheelchair, but I'm super into places that think about everyone. The good news is, the Inn says it caters to accessibility. Wheelchair accessible? Tick. Elevator? Tick. I'm hoping this means actual ramps, not just tokenism. CCTV in common areas and outside? Good, I like the feeling of being watched – in a "keeping-me-safe" kind of way, not a "creepy stalker" way. They’ve got facilities for disabled guests, which is promising; I’d want to know exactly what though. Because saying you're accessible and being accessible are, you know, two completely different things. Fingers crossed this isn't just a marketing ploy.
CLEANLINESS! Safety! (Because the world is a dumpster fire, thanks Covid)
Okay, this is where the Inn better be on point. Anti-viral cleaning products? YES! Hot water linen and laundry washing? Double YES! Room sanitization opt-out available? Good point. Not everyone wants their stuff touched, and I get it. Rooms sanitized between stays? Crucial. Daily disinfection in common areas? Essential. Hygiene certification? Let's see it! Staff trained in safety protocol? Please tell me they aren't just winging it. Individually-wrapped food options? Good. Cashless payment service? Makes life easier. Hand sanitizer? Everywhere, please! And thank you for the doctor/nurse on call. This is the new normal, people. And speaking of new normals…
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Adventure (Or Just the Hangover)
Okay, food! This is where things get interesting. The Inn boasts Restaurants and a Bar, and a Poolside bar. Breakfast [buffet]? Hallelujah. But, BUT… Buffet in restaurant? Sigh. Pre-Covid I would have been all over that, but now I want to see what precautions they have in place. A la carte in restaurant? Good option. Room service [24-hour]? Okay, that's a win. Coffee/tea in restaurant? Essential. Coffee shop? Also essential. Snack bar? Love me a snack. Asian breakfast? Asian cuisine in restaurant? International cuisine in restaurant? Alright, we're getting fancy! I'm crossing my fingers that the food is as good as it sounds. Vegetarian restaurant? Gotta love a nod to the plant-based amongst us.
My biggest fear? Overpriced, mediocre food. But, hey, let's be optimistic!
Things to Do, Ways to Relax: Because You’re Here to… Relax… Right?
Here's the juicy bit. The stuff that makes or breaks a trip. Swimming pool [outdoor]? YES! Pool with view? DOUBLE YES! I need a pool with a view after a day of hiking. Spa? Oh honey, we're talking my language. Spa/sauna? That's the dream. Sauna? YES! Steamroom? YES! Massage? This is what I call living. Body scrub, Body wrap? Okay, okay, I'm starting to feel pampered just thinking about it. Fitness center, Gym/fitness? For the masochists among us. Just kidding (mostly). Foot bath? Ooooh, sounds divine. I could easily get lost in that.
Now, the big question: how good are these things actually? Are they properly staffed? Are the facilities clean and maintained? Is the pool the equivalent of a crowded kiddie pool or a tranquil oasis? Only time – and your wallet – will tell.
Services and Conveniences: The Fine Print (Or the Little Annoyances)
Air conditioning in public area? Crucial for summer. Business facilities? They're there, if you must. Concierge? Helpful. Daily housekeeping? I love a clean room. Elevator? (See: accessibility). Facilities for disabled guests? (See: accessibility) Invoice provided? Necessary for expense reports. Ironing service? Okay, maybe I should actually pack some decent clothes. Laundry service? A lifesaver. Luggage storage? Always handy. Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Seminars, Wi-Fi for special events? Fine, if you must work… maybe. Car park [free of charge]? Yes! Free parking is a gift from the gods. Airport transfer? Convenient, if you’re flying in.
For the Kids: Family Fun (Or Family Chaos)
Babysitting service? Hmm, is that a good thing or a bad thing? Family/child friendly? Let's hope so! Kids facilities and Kids meal? Please, make it easy for the parents.
The Rooms: What’s Inside the Fortress?
Okay, the rooms. This is where the rubber meets the road. Air conditioning? Essential. Free Wi-Fi?? Oh, hallelujah. Additional toilet? Luxury! Bathtub, Separate shower/bathtub? Yes please – I love a long soak. Bathrobes, Slippers? I’m sold. Blackout curtains? Sleep is sacred. Coffee/tea maker? Yes! Daily housekeeping? YES! Desk, Laptop workspace? If you must… Extra long bed? Necessary. In-room safe box? Smart. Internet access – wireless? Another win! Mini bar? Temptation. Non-smoking? Good. Refrigerator? Great for leftovers (or wine). Satellite/cable channels? Entertainment, if you need it. Seating area? Makes the room feel less like a prison cell. Soundproofing? Bless. Wake-up service? Snooze button is my friend.
But here’s where I’m going to call them out: all this sounds amazing. However, it hinges on the execution. Are the beds actually comfortable? Are the rooms clean? Are the Wi-Fi speeds fast? Is the view from the "Pool with view" actually… good? The devil is in the details. I'm cautiously optimistic…
The “Quirky Observation/Emotional Reaction” Section (aka, My Weird Brain)
Okay, I'm going to level with you. I need a good view. A really good view. Something that makes me go "WOW." So, if the "Pool with view" is just overlooking a parking lot… I will be devastated. I'm picturing myself, sprawled on a sun lounger, margarita in hand, gazing out at majestic mountains… or maybe just a dumpster? The possibilities are, let's be honest, terrifying.
And the spa? Oh, the spa. I have a love-hate relationship with spas. Love the idea, hate the forced chillness, the hushed whispers, the pressure to be zen. But a good massage can fix anything. Even a subpar Inn experience.
The “Messy Structure and Occasional Rambles” Section (aka, I’m a Human, Not a Robot)
I'm going to be real honest here - writing this review has been a rollercoaster. I started out all “objective review,” but then the descriptions started hitting all the right notes, and now I'm picturing myself actually there. Lounging by the pool. Getting a massage. Eating all the delicious things…
But then, I remember all the hotels I've been disappointed by. The ones that promised paradise and delivered, well, something less. So, my enthusiasm is tempered with a hefty dose of skepticism. Because, you know, reality.
The Bottom Line (and the Offer!):
Okay, here’s the deal. The Olympic Village Inn sounds amazing. It could be a hidden gem. It could be overpriced disappointment. But, dammit, I'm intrigued.
My Offer (Because You Need a Reason to Book!)
Book your stay at the Olympic Village Inn within the next [Insert timeframe, e.g., 7 days], and if you're not completely over the moon with your experience (or at least, relatively satisfied), I'll buy you a [Insert small, relevant treat, e.g., Starbucks Coffee] (because that's all I can afford!). Why
Escape to Newtown: Homewood Suites' Unforgettable PA Getaway
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. We're diving headfirst into my absolutely unpolished, highly emotional, and probably caffeinated travel itinerary for Olympic Village Inn in Olympic Valley, CA. This isn't your sleek, Instagram-perfect schedule. This is the REAL DEAL.
Subject: Olympic Valley - Operation: Bliss (and Maybe Disaster?)
Day 1: Arrival and Acute Coffee Deprivation
- 12:00 PM: Arrive at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Okay, let's be honest, the airport is a BEAST. Navigation is my first challenge. I am already feeling slightly panicked because I am a terrible person when it comes to directions.
- Anecdote: Last time I flew, I ended up in the cargo hold. Just kidding! (Mostly.) But the sheer number of people, the luggage carousels – it's a sensory overload. I'm already craving a strong coffee. Seriously, where's the espresso?
- 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Car Rental Catastrophe (Maybe). Fingers crossed I don't get roped into some ridiculous upselling scheme. Praying the car isn't one of those tiny death traps. The suspense is killing me.
- 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Scenic Drive to Olympic Valley. This is it The mountains! The pine trees! The freedom!
- Rambling Thought: I really, really hope the radio works. Otherwise, I'm doomed to sing off-key to myself for three hours. And no one wants to hear that.
- 5:00 PM: Check into the Olympic Village Inn. FINALLY. Time to find that coffee. And unpack. Ugh, unpacking. But must.
- Quirky Observation: I bet the hotel room smells like pine and… hope. And maybe a hint of stale air conditioning. We shall see.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel restaurant, or nearby. This is my first major decision. Depends on the food reviews. I'm a sucker for a good ribeye, so that may win, if there's one on the menu.
- Emotional Reaction: After a long travel day, the thought of a hot meal is the only thing keeping me going.
Day 2: Slopes, Stumbles, and Spiritual Skiing
- 8:00 AM: Wake Up, coffee in hand (success!). Breakfast at the hotel. I'm hoping for a full spread. I am starving. This is not a drill!
- 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Skiing! Or, as I like to call it, "Falling Elegantly Down a Mountain." Okay, maybe not elegantly. I'm a beginner, people. Expect wipeouts. I'm prepared to spend more time on the snow than actually on the skis.
- Opinionated Language: I swear, ski boots are designed by sadists. My feet already hurt. But the views! The crisp mountain air! It's worth it.
- Anecdote/Imperfection: Last time I tried skiing, I literally skied directly into a small child. Apologies to that kid (and the ski instructor who almost had a stroke). Hopefully, this time will be less dramatic.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch on the slopes. Chili, hopefully? And a hot chocolate to warm the soul.
- 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: More Skiing (and/or Face-Planting). I'm determined to improve, even if it kills me.
- Emotional Reaction: This is the only way to get better at skiing. (Sigh). Okay, I can do this. I think I can do this.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Après-ski. This is where it's at, people. Drinks, snacks, and basking in the glory of surviving another day on the slopes. Pure bliss.
- Quirky Observation: I'm betting the après-ski crowd will include a good mix of seasoned pros and people just like me, who are still trying to figure out which end of the skis is up.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. Something hearty and delicious. Possibly Italian. I'm open to suggestions (if I can still walk by then).
- Messy Structure: I want to go to an italian restaurant. But there's also that burger place. Decisions, decisions… Okay, I'll figure it out after a shower.
Day 3: Squaw Valley Exploration and the Great Pizza Quest
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast (repeat). Must keep up the energy levels. Seriously, this is a workout!
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Explore Squaw Valley. Check out the shops, take a gondola ride (if I'm brave enough), and soak up the scenery.
- Anecdote: I hope I don't get altitude sickness. That happened once in Colorado and let's just say it involved a lot of vomiting and an emergency oxygen mask.
- Rambling Thought: I wonder if they have any good bookstores. Or maybe a cute coffee shop. Must find all the things!
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: The Great Pizza Quest. I've heard there's amazing pizza somewhere in town. The hunt begins.
- Doubling Down on an Experience: Okay, this needs to be the best pizza ever. Thin crust, lots of cheese, the works. I will ask around, read reviews, and sacrifice all other activities for the sake of pizza perfection. This is an important mission.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Relax, maybe a quick nap. I'm going to need all the energy to eat that pizza.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Explore Olympic Village Inn. Hot tub. Sauna. Maybe just sit in the lobby and people-watch.
- Emotional Reaction: I'm looking forward to some downtime. My muscles are screaming, my brain is fried, and I just want to chill.
- 7:00 PM: Pizza! (Hopefully a success). Followed by a movie in the hotel room. PJs all day!
Day 4: Departure and the Sadness of Leaving
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast (last one!). I'm going to miss this.
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Last-minute souvenir shopping (if I haven't already done it). I need to bring something home for my cat. What does one buy a cat as a momento?
- 12:00 PM: Check out. Sniffle a little. I don't want to leave.
- 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM: Drive back to SFO. The drive back is always filled with mixed emotions. Sadness at leaving, but also excitement about new adventures to be had.
- Opinionated Language: Goodbye, mountains. You were cold. And beautiful. And I'll be back. Eventually.
- 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Airport shenanigans. Hopefully, my flight isn't delayed. I am not prepared for airport food.
- Messy Structure: This part is kind of boring. But I'm always stressed about missing flights.
- 6:00 PM: Flight. Then back home.
So there you have it. My totally unedited, slightly chaotic, and hopefully hilarious itinerary for Olympic Valley. Wish me luck, and pray for my safety (and for the success of the Great Pizza Quest). I will definitely report back with the post-trip report!
Aldi's Lombok Bungalow: Paradise Found! (Jaw-Dropping Photos Inside!)
Olympic Village Inn: Your Guide to a (Possibly) Magnificent Mess
1. So, What *IS* this "Olympic Village Inn" place, anyway? Sounds kinda…vague.
Alright, alright, picture this: You’re totally over Squaw Valley (oops, I mean… *Olympic* Valley… Old habits die hard!). You’re craving something REAL. Something less… manufactured-glam. This is where the Inn slides in, baby. It's not the Ritz. It's charming. It's cozy. It's like if a really cool, slightly disorganized aunt decided to host a ski lodge. Think fireplaces, maybe a little too much exposed wood (but in a good way!), and a vibe that says, "Come on in, have a beer, and tell me your life story." Honestly? It's got that rustic charm that makes you feel instantly like you're on vacation. I remember the first time I went – freezing, exhausted, and in dire need of a shower. The warm welcome at the front desk (and the promise of a hot tub) practically melted my stress away.
2. Okay, I’m intrigued. But is it actually *nice*? Like, clean and stuff?
Nice? Well, let's be honest, we're not talking about antiseptic perfection. It's more… well-loved. You might find a rogue snowdrift or a little bit of… character… in your room. But the staff? They're awesome! Seriously, they're the kind of people who actually *care* about making your stay great. I once accidentally locked myself out of my room after a particularly epic day of skiing (don't ask) and the front desk guy – bless his heart – didn't even bat an eye. He just got me a new key and made a joke about how common it was. The rooms are clean enough, always. And the showers? Hot. Always a win in my book after being on the slopes all day. Expect a well-worn rug or two, maybe a slightly quirky paint job, but that's part of the charm, right? I mean, you're not exactly there to critique the interior design, are you? You're there to ski! Or snowboard! Or just eat lots of pizza. And drink beer.
3. What about the food? (This is IMPORTANT.)
Food! Ah, the fuel of any successful ski trip. The Olympic Village Inn doesn't have a Michelin-star restaurant, okay? But! They do have a decent breakfast – think continental style, with fresh fruit and some hot items. Enough to fuel your day! I'm also a big fan of their bar, which offers classic bar food (burgers, fries, nachos). They'll serve you a good meal that's affordable which is what you need. Oh, and another plus? The location! You can walk to a number of awesome restaurants in Olympic Valley. From fancy stuff to casual pizza joints, it's all within easy reach. I once stumbled into a tiny Italian place after a particularly brutal run down the Headwall. Pasta. Heaven. I am still dreaming about that pasta. It honestly saved my life.
4. Location, Location, Location! How's the ski access? Is it truly ski-in/ski-out, or is it a *lie*?
Okay, listen up, because this is where the Inn *really* shines. It's SO close to the lifts. Like, practically a hop, skip, and a stumble (depending how many après ski cocktails you’ve had – no judgment!) from the base of the mountain. It is ski-in/ski-out adjacent. The walk is short and if you've got a room in the Village, you can ski right down to the Inn. This is *huge*! No driving, no shuttles, just… freedom. You can ski all day, then trundle back to your room, change, and be at a bar with a bloody mary in minutes. It's pure bliss, I tell you. That proximity alone is worth the price of admission. Seriously, I'd stay there just for that convenience.
5. Is there a *pool*?! And what about a hot tub? (Priorities, people!)
Alright, alright, settle down. Yes, there's a hot tub. And yes, you'll probably find yourself in it at some point, soaking your weary muscles after a day on the slopes. It's not usually a pool, more like a long, narrow hot tub. It's not HUGE, so if you go during peak season, expect some company, but the views are amazing. And trust me, after a day of skiing? That bubbly water is the best thing ever. I once saw a guy propose in the hot tub. Romantic, or slightly cliché? You decide! But warm is warm, and the hot tub *is* awesome. I'm not sure it's a pool. (I'm pretty sure it's not) It's the kinda place you might bring a book, forget to read it, and just stare up at the snow-covered peaks.
6. Okay, you've convinced me. What's the *worst* thing about the Olympic Village Inn?
Ugh, okay, let's get to the nitty-gritty. It’s not perfect. Sometimes the internet can be patchy. And if you're expecting absolute silence, you might be disappointed – you ARE in a ski village, after all. You'll hear doors slamming, maybe a little revelry. And, let's be honest, the rooms, while clean, aren’t *brand new*. The furniture looks like it *might* have been around since the Olympics were actually happening. Seriously, it could be the worst thing about the whole thing. It's not going to win any design awards. But you're not there for the furniture, are you? You're there for the mountains, the camaraderie, the hot tub, and the convenience. Honestly, you're there to ski and snowboard and maybe relax a little. In my opinion, It's the best kept secret because it's not perfect, that's what makes it great!
7. So, is it worth the stay? Spit it out!
Look, if you're a high-maintenance, needs-everything-perfect kind of person, maybe the Olympic Village Inn isn’t for you. But if you're looking for a relaxed, convenient, and genuinely charming place to stay with a ski-in/ski-out experience, then absolutely. It's the kind of place where you can be yourself, where the staff make you feel welcome. Where you can stumble in after a day on the slopes, tired, happy, and covered in snow, and know you're exactly where you're supposed to be. It’s not fancy, but it’s got heart. It’s definitely a YES from me! I'll be back next year. Just try to keep the hot tub free for me, okay?
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