I was very excited to be included in the media launch of the all new Courtyard Hotel. As my husband had stayed there before for business, he was wowed by the extensive transformation in just the lobby, let alone the guest suites and other amenities.

The hotel features over 250 rooms, ranging from your traditional queen bed suite to the extra large family suites, featuring a separate sitting area for the parents to unwind once the little ones are put down for the evening. We were taken on a tour of the hotel by Ryan, the Front Desk Manager, whose knowledge and expertise in the service industry was more than evident. He explained that the owners of the Courtyard were intent on sparing no expense in making sure the right renovations were completed on time and on budget. After spending several millions of dollars, the reveal was amazing. Everything is in place to make the guests stay fully enjoyable and complete.

Our suite was beautifully appointed with an open concept jacuzzi tub overlooking the big screen television and in-suite fireplace to set the mood. It was very easy to feel relaxed upon our arrival. I have a lot of opportunities throughout the year to stay in different hotels across Canada and the US, and this hotel staff seemed to be very genuine in the love of their job.

The hotel offers many different opportunities for family fun, whether you want to take a dip in the beautiful indoor pool, hot tub or sauna. Or for those who want to swim outside in the sunshine, they offer a seasonal outdoor pool as well. Additional amenities include free wifi in the lobby and rooms. The lobby also offers the convenience of free computers for guest use, as well as Internet connectivity. A giant flat screen television and lounge chairs for kicking back while waiting for the day to begin is also there for your guest pleasures.

The hotel has been renovated around family stays and is more upscale in character and charm than many others in the area, and at a more reasonable price point. If you are a business traveller, Marriott's reward program can be very lucrative.

If "steak and potatoes" is to your liking, The Keg Steakhouse is located right inside the hotel. As part of our tour, we were treated to a reception featuring some of the local business offerings. The evening finished off in The Keg dining room with all the media being taken in for dinner and drinks. After a late night stroll with my husband down to the falls, and devouring the requisite amount of ice cream, it was very easy to relax upon returning to our suite.

Any trip to Niagara Falls isn't complete unless you see the sights. Tours of Niagara has a desk located right inside the doors of the hotel. They can offer up several worthwhile suggestions to make your trip a raving success.

To say that I enjoyed the night away would probably be an understatement. However, a night in a hotel "sans kids" and a great dinner with the sights of Niagara Falls to boot, what else does a girl need?

So, whether you are looking for a one night romantic getaway or last minute stopover, the Courtyard Hotel by Marriott is just what the doctor ordered. I look forward to being invited back to spend some quality time with my family.