Pictured: Bill Rode, Judy, Eleanor, Donna, Carrie, Lenore, Inese, Nancy, Andre, Dolores, Darlene, Sandra, Lucy, Don, Karen & driver Sunny
The hard-working volunteers at Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center had the opportunity to go on a Familiarization (FAM) tour on Wednesday, May 14. Courtesy of Bill Rode, General Manager of Navigator 360, they enjoyed visits to the Hotel Nexus in Northgate, the Hampton Inn in Lynnwood, and the Best Western Navigator Inn and Suites in Everett, getting a first hand look at the many remodeled features.
While they were relatively similar in some ways, our guides showed that they all had some unique styles and amenities that were singular to that location. For instance, the Hampton Inn included a shuttle van to the Alderwood Mall and other shopping and tourist areas in its area. The Hotel Nexus also had a shuttle van that would actually take you to numerous areas in downtown Seattle (a particularly convenient amenity in the day and age of $4.00 gasoline and astronomical parking fees). Moreover, while all the hotels consisted of gymnasium facilities and a pool, the Navigator actually has a working agreement with the adjacent 24 Hour Fitness to allow all guests to utilize their equipment at any time.
In addition, all three hotels had specialized rooms, ranging from the standard to fully-stocked kitchenettes, from apartment- sized to some with Japanese bubble tubs (Think of all the laundry they must do!”, mused Judy). Many rooms had flat screen televisions and new “super-comfy” (per hotel associate Diana) mattresses. The pool areas were also quite relaxing (which Sandy proved by trying out one of the Navigator’s chaise lounges for us). All in all, our tours were quite fun (including one small, amusing language-barrier situation) and informative.
In addition to the actual tours, we were also treated to a great lunch of salads, croissants and soft drinks provided at the Hampton Inn and catered by Ingallinas of Seattle (206-766-9400). “It was great. The salads were terrific!” said Chamber volunteer Judy. “Now that I know all about the Navigator 360, I’ll start sending people there when they come to the Visitor Center looking for a hotel.” Stated volunteer Don Weiss.
A very nice surprise during this luncheon was a raffle held that had several prizes, including three give-aways of a nights stay at each one of their hotels, which were won by Carrie, Lucy and Lenore. Lucy and Lenore both joked that they are now looking to find “fellas” to go there with.
On our way back, we were taken to a quiet vacant lot area where Bill showed us where the newest hotel of their chain was to be built in Mukilteo. Plans are to have some water view and a waterway walk access, without abruptly disturbing the natural attractiveness of the area.
Overall, a great time was had by all. We look forward to a tour next year as well, which Bill, who was especially gracious, taking time from his very busy schedule on this day to accommodate us all, offered when the new Mukilteo establishment is up and running. Thanks again to everyone involved in making this event a memorable one.
FAM tours are an excellent way to give your business greater exposure in our Visitor Center by allowing our volunteers first-hand knowledge of your offerings. Since we have over 3,500 people walking into our lobby each month, and others calling for referrals, the promotion our volunteers can offer Chamber members is considerable. To arrange a FAM tour of your business, contact Bill Wheaton at (360) 659-7700, or email BillW@marysvilletulalipchamber.com.
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