I like surprises. But not at 10:30 PM after travelling all day. Paul had told us the "doorman" (actually just a disinterested security guard) would let us in to the unit. So SURPRISE- when I walked in I find it is a ONE bath unit- not TWO as advertised and as Paul had confirmed in a email before we booked the unit.

So Paul and I had an "interesting" late night cell phone conversation where I felt really flim-flammed with a lot of "Uh, I didn't think the second bathroom was all that important to you", etc. stuff. At this point I said we would talk in the morning, I expected a refund for at least this night and we checked into the Hotel Blake downtown. NOT what you want after a long day flying.

So the next day Paul worked things around for a two bath unit and did refund the previous night to me in cash. So whatever but Paul- don't surprise me at 10:30 PM. (You had my cell and email.)

This same disorganized approach pervaded much of our stay. Paul asked at move-in if he could get some boxes stored in the unit out in a couple of days. I said fine. But then the texts started up where he had no key and wanted us to meet him to let him in. Nope- "your boxes will be in the corridor"!

Once we finally moved into the unit (which of course burned much of our next day) it was OK. Missing lots of touches that you would expect in a 400.00 per day property such as hand and kitchen towels but whatever...

Now for the Lex. I never could figure if this is a distressed property on the upswing or a formerly good property on the decline. But it is definitely a somewhat shabby and sterile building. IF you are attending a convention at McCormick Place then being close would make up for the building's failings.

Same thing on the neighborhood. It really isn't pedestrian/tourist friendly. Lots of vacant buildings/lots and very few restaurants nearby. Chinatown is within walking distance, however. Otherwise it is very industrial and a bit intimidating and especially late at night.

Our next time in Chicago we'll head for Lincoln Park.