What the hotel can control:

As a Platinum elite, was assigned a corner room on the 3rd floor which was nice, but it was the room closest to Highway 55 which is very noisy. Very noisy.

I also didn’t receive any welcome gift at check-in. Thought I would get at least some water bottles.

The dishwasher was full but clearly hadn’t been operated as it was full of dirty cups and utensils. Had to rewash cups by hand to use. This was a pain and a disappointment.

The hardware in the room is really showing wear and tear. Cabinets in the kitchen were loose. The shower was very scuffed and dirty looking. The bedside lights on the left of our bed didn’t work. Could use some renovation.

I agree that the $12 parking fee is lousy. The hotel doesn’t provide any secured parking area and anyone can drive through. There is a Starbucks and Fed Ex in the same lot with free parking.

What the hotel can’t control completely but still a negative:

We were under a 4th floor unit whose occupants walked around very noisily and operated their television very loudly. It shook the walls. Had quite a hard time sleeping due to the loud TV and the highway noise.

As a Marriott loyalist (and normally a big fan of Residence Inns), I found myself a bit underwhelmed at this one. There was certainly nothing wrong with the service or room, I'm just used to a higher level of service and little extras in the room. No real standouts here. I will say the breakfast was great with a waffle bar and also some healthier options as well. Overall it was a fine (but average) stay.

Literally just about four miles from John Wayne \ Orange County airport and close to my business destination. Typical of a Residence Inn, everything in the room is for the traveler who would stay an extended time. Two burner stove top, microwave, dishwasher, and a full size refrigerator. You could shop, stock up, and make whatever you needed versus the usual eating out or room service every night. Although there is plenty of food options from next store to within a he mile or so.
Comfortable bed, pillow options, room controls were effective and easy, large bathroom and shower with a make-up counter and mirror just outside the door, desk space (solid WiFi), couch, and even food counter seating. Price is reflective of the area ...
Had a great stay.