The newly opened Hilton Garden Inn, Southpoint in Durham, NC has set a new level to my expectations of what a hotel can offer it's guests.

I wandered into the hotel when I saw the "Now Open" banner outside, and was greeted by the Guest Services Manager and one of the Front Desk staff members.

After a conversation and invitation to return to take a tour of the rooms (she would have done it that night except it was their first sold out night) I decided, if the front desk staff is this professional, friendly, and welcoming - even on their busiest night to date -- why not -- let's give them a try. (Hilton loyalty still runs in my veins)

I have not been disappointed. From the 24 hour pantry, brand new beds and televisions, flawless wireless Internet. All the business amenities are in order.

But, many hotels can get the amenities right, the Southpoint Hilton Garden Inn gets the personl part of hospitality right too, At breakfast the my first morning (eggs and hash browns cooked on demand -- mmm) the General Manager and the Food and Beverage Manager both made a point of introducing themselves and handing me their cards. Over the last week, they have been a constant presence in the lobby greeting guests by name, ameliorating customer issues, listening to suggestions, and just making everyone feel welcome to their temporary home-away-from-home.

All the other staff members I've had contact with have been helpful, cheery, and looking to make my stay the best it can be.

A previous reviewer complained about the heating in the room, I have not found this an issue - they have electronic theromstats which need to be set to the right mode (heat or cool) and each setting has its own set point. I've needed to use both heating and A/C and have had no issues with the results.

The same review also had concerns about the breakfast, perhaps it has changed a bit since he at here. The fruit and breads are fresh as fresh could be, the and the eggs are made to-order so my experience has not been the same

All in all - an excellent experience. I have stayed in several other hotels in the area and this one is head and shoulders above the rest.