I will admit it – I was nervous that this would be like the other Renaissance hotels – in need of a visit from Extreme Makeover, Hotel Edition. But the Marriott promotion of a $100 coupon for a future stay lured me to the Renaissance Charlotte and also redeemed some of my faith in this Marriott brand. The front desk is actually a series of uncluttered tables that signals this is not every other hotel. The interior design is reminiscent of the Embassy Suites chain – open and square - but with more character. The holiday decorations certainly contributed to this sentiment although the lighting and greenery suggest more than a regular Embassy. We were upgraded to an executive suite which, for all intents and purposes, differs from the other suites in that the executive suite has a boardroom table. The suites offer extra space versus a hotel room – the sitting area works well if dining in – and enhances longer stays. Families and business travelers will also find the extra room beneficial. The downsides to the hotel include a charge for internet use (standard at Marriott and Renaissance hotels), a business center with free internet but malfunctioning computers, a brash front desk associate who discounted my claim that my key would not open the business center, and a location that is not within walking distance of anything sans a series of office parks. A car is essential although for layover stays the airport shuttle and restaurant would suffice. Despite these interruptions, the Renaissance Charlotte Suites did what no other Renaissance has – exceeded my expectation. Yes, I was downtrodden after several Renaissance stays and entered with low expectations, but this one is better than the rest. Overall grade: good but far from excellent.