Our triumphant return to the "Air Capital of the World" found us staying in this newly built franchised Residence Inn on the east side. Growing up during the boom days in Wichita, I remembered the frequent roar of military fighter jets and newly built planes taking off and landing. We were pleasantly surprised that even though the RI is adjacent to the Hawker Beechcraft and Flight Safety field, we would never know it. Even when BBQing poolside.

The location is excellent with plenty of restaurants and activities nearby, many within walking distance. The Palazzo even boasts a huge upscale modern arcade, bowling alley and movie theatre. This RI is pet friendly and has massive (football field sized) dog runs. Great to the let the pups unwind and expend energy after a long day on the road.

The rooms are like any remodeled or new Residence Inn. The overall physical plant is well maintained and clean. The staff is exceptional in friendliness and service. Mike Cahill, the overnight front desk agent is of particular note. He provided excellent service throughout our week here. Richard, the afternoon cook who puts on the evening soirée of wine and assorted light food fare is also personable and very attentive.

So, a few negatives. Internet is a problem. For some reason it is slow, and not compatible with anything Apple. This property does not use the Marriott system and it shows. We were here on pleasure. If I had to conduct business here, I would need to chose another hotel. Not good.

The incidentals deposit policy seems a bit extreme. We stayed for a week. We were charged room and tax for the week, then a pet fee, then in addition the equivalent of a week's room and tax as a deposit for incidentals we may use. Basically 200% of our total bill was charged/held. First, we would have to eat a lot of potato chips out of the sundry area to even come close to using what was taken as a deposit. Second, the release of the funds takes forever. We checked out 14 days ago as of this writing and the hold has not been released. I've already made two calls to the property to no avail.

So for a nice stay in a safe and new part of Wichita, this is great. If you are using a company credit card and can float the property for a couple of weeks, ok. If you are traveling on a limited budget beware-do not use your debit card. Need internet, best to keep looking.

The Internet at this hotel is some of the worse I have experienced - and I travel a lot. I said something to the front desk and they replied they couldn't do anything if a guest was being a "bandwidth hog". I believe if your are going to offer Internet - offer Internet. One closet door was off the track and a drawer on the dresser would not stay closed. Very friendly staff - extremely friendly breakfast staff. Maid service - not so good. Did not clean our room - did not step in to even empty the trash.

The bed is INCREDIBLY comfortable, kitchen is perfectly stocked, staff is bed-over-backwards friendly, and the employee for the manager's reception (so sorry I can't remember is name!) is absolutely outstanding! I can't say enough great things about this hotel and will stay here any chance I have when in town.

The only downsides: outdoor pool only, there is some noise from rooms above

I have to say the reason why we stayed here for the last two weeks is because Richard, the dinner cook, and personality, is running the show in the evening. Richard doesn't have the personality of an incredible chef that's out of sight of the public. He has the uncanteed ability of a sessoned chef with the skills of a PR PROFESIONAL. Rick-n-roll Richard! Got nothin but love for ya... Do yo thang boy!!