In just under four weeks, I stayed in three hotels from three different hotel groups: The Hyatt Centric in Malta, an IHG property in Edinburgh, and a Marriott in Inverness. Two were modern and sleek, one was traditional and historic.

I thought I’d share a few personal observations that might help anyone planning a trip to Malta or Scotland.

The service in all three was exemplary. I was addressed by name, my preferences were remembered, and everyone I encountered was professional and kind.

The differences were in the accommodations.

Hyatt Centric Malta

Modern, sleek, and compact, with one outstanding feature: an incredibly comfortable bed. There was a pillow menu, and the feather pillows were wonderful. The towels were soft and absorbent, too, and plentiful. The staff was amazing. The gentleman at the hotel coffee shop and bar remembered my preferred morning croissant by the second day, and was so accommodating. A bottle of champagne was waiting for me when I got to my room that first day, a nice welcoming touch. And bonus: there is a rooftop pool. But the view from the room is a sliver of sunlight between buildings.

The biggest downside, though? Not a single drawer. I was staying for two weeks and had to live out of my suitcase for the entire time. Not my favorite way to travel. Apparently this is a trend, as I would later discover.

Who is this hotel for? St. Julian’s hotels are less expensive than those in Valletta. However, to see and do most of the things you will want to see and do, you will need to take a ferry from Sliema. So you need to be prepared to walk or take a taxi to the ferry. St. Julian’s is a party town, though the Hyatt Centric is up the hill away from most of the action, and it never bothered me. But if you are looking for convenience and less transportation time, I would recommend staying in Valletta. Just be prepared to pay more.

Hotel Indigo, Princes Street, Edinburgh

This IHG property was gorgeous, with beautiful woodwork, winding staircases, lush fabrics, and artwork everywhere. My room was huge, with an incredible view of Old Town, and there was plenty of drawer and storage space. The pillows were soft, and there was a pillow menu here, too. The location is perfect, just across the street from the Edinburgh Waverly train station and a walk up the hill to the Royal Mile.

Full disclosure: my opinion may be somewhat influenced by the fact that because of my IHG Platinum status, I was upgraded to a suite. But I’ve seen photos of the standard rooms, and they look just as lovely, if a bit smaller.

My one complaint? The mattress was horribly uncomfortable and obviously well past its prime. It slanted so dramatically to the right that I was always in danger of rolling off the bed. A beautiful room can only make up for so much when you’re trying to sleep!

Who is this hotel for? In spite of the mattress, I would absolutely stay here again. This hotel is for anyone who loves history, architecture, and charm in a hotel. I would highly recommend it, but ask to be moved if you get a wonky mattress.

AC Marriott, Inverness

Another modern, sleek room, and – surprise! – no drawers. Fortunately, I was only there for four nights, so I could manage out of my suitcase. Still, it was annoying.

The mattress was comfortable, the view of the River Ness spectacular, and the room looked a lot like the one in Malta. Are they all using the same designers?

The towels did feel a bit like sandpaper. But in spite of that and the lack of storage, the view and the location made up for it all.

Who is this hotel for? I’d say this hotel is for anyone who wants a lovely and safe area. The walk along the river is heavenly, and there are pubs and restaurants a stone’s throw from the hotel. I would highly recommend it for that alone.

Despite their differences, all three hotels provided wonderful service, and I’d happily stay at any of them again. All were in excellent locations, with plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, and all three neighborhoods felt completely safe for me to walk alone, even after dark.

Have questions about the hotels, the areas, or how I booked all three with credit card points? Leave your questions in a comment below.