Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills

Heath Hawkins

Candi and I made a trip to Branson this past weekend (September 2005) with the intentions of relaxing, rather than seeing a ton of shows. Since I created this column I find that we load our trips to Branson with show after show. This time I wanted to just get away and relax.

We did see a couple shows, but for the most part our goal of relaxation was achieved. We were invited to stay at the Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills, Branson, Mo. While there we watched TV, swam in the pool, and wandered without an agenda.

I have to admit that this experience was special. I always make my reservations ahead of time, so the hotel knows that I am coming. I never ask for special treatment, just treat me like any ordinary guest. This time, the Comfort Inn had put a special welcome message to me on their hotel sign. My wife spotted the greeting before I did and was sure to point it out. I really felt special and was amazed that the hotel would go to that much trouble.

As I waited in line to check in I could tell that the front desk attendants would be very helpful. I listened as they offered assistance and information to the elderly couple checking in ahead of me. And sure enough, when it was my turn to check in they were very attentive.

They made sure I knew where my room was and pointed out the other important areas of the hotel. The hotel was large, four stories. I thought it was very helpful for them to point out the breakfast area as well as show me where the pool was located. They even asked if we needed help making plans for what to do while in town. I always like to hear what the locals think the best shows in town are.

When we got to the room we were surprised to find that we were given a King Suite. The room was a little larger than the standard room and had a couple added features that made our time very comfortable. There was a setting area with a couch and two soft chairs. It was great to be able to sit and talk or watch TV without having to balance on the edge of the bed.

At dinner we had leftovers and I was so glade that we could bring them back to the room with us. The room had a mini-fridge and a microwave, so we enjoyed the bits of leftover steak and potato as a midnight snack. These little features really added to our enjoyment.

The view from our room was amazing. Our room was located on the backside of the hotel. This side overlooks the award winning Thousand Hills Golf Course. We are not golfers ourselves, but we can appreciate the time it takes to keep such a handsome golf course in peek condition.

The one thing that my wife requested of the weekend was that I find a hotel with a pool. We live very hectic lives and relish the opportunity to relax in a pool. The Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills had a beautiful indoor pool that over looked the golf course. After we swam for a while we decided to spend some time in the hot tub. The warm water and bubbles just seemed to make the stresses of world fade away. You do not even have to remember to bring towels with you to the pool; they keep a pile of clean towels right by the door.

The pool open at 9:00 a.m. each morning and stays open until midnight. There is plenty time to swim when you get back from a show. If you don’t want to swim, you could also de-stress in the sauna room or play a few games of pool in the arcade.

As the evening ended, it was time to climb in bed. This is where my wife and I always disagree. Neither of us can sleep on a firm mattress, but she prefers hers extra plush. Personally I like soft comfort, and that is how I would describe the bed at the Comfort Inn. Not too soft, and certainly not hard. The pillows and linens were also plush and comfortable. I woke up the next morning feeling well rested and ready for the day. Candi did not think she rested as well. She blamed the bed not being soft enough, but I blame the fact that she is 6 months pregnant. She has not slept very well in any bed, including our own, for the last several months. I thought the bed was perfect.

Her complaints soon melted away as she slid into the huge two-person Jacuzzi tub in our bathroom. The powerful jets helped work out any memories of a restless night.

I would describe the Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills as a “Nice” place to stay.” When I say nice, I mean friendly nice. Yes the room and the facilities were great, but the employees and hospitality made the Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills something special. Many people have a favorite place to stay when they are in town. They know what to expect, the rooms are clean, the location is convenient, but I think most people come back for the hospitality. I know I would return here for that reason.

The Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills is located just off the Branson Strip. You will find it on the Yellow Route behind the Lone Star Steakhouse. The actual address is 203 South Wildwood Drive. You will find that this location on the Yellow Route will help you to get just about anywhere in town a little faster. For more information visit http://www.meyerhotels.com/comfort/comfortinn.html or to make a reservation or ask about room rates call the Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills at (877) 335-4727. Tell them that Heath from Branson Critic Online sent you.

What do you think? Your opinion is your opinion. Let me know at hhawkins@waynesville.k12.mo.us.