Merrill Farm Resort: Your Conway, NH Getaway Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into Merrill Farm Resort, and let me tell you, this isn't some bland, cookie-cutter hotel review. We're going to get REAL, with all the bumps and bruises of a truly authentic experience.
Merrill Farm Resort: Conway's Cozy Secret… With Perks! (And Maybe a Few Quirks)
So, first things first: Accessibility. I'm not personally using a wheelchair, but I always appreciate a place that cares. And Merrill Farm… well, they’re tryna. They list "facilities for disabled guests" at the top. Now, what exactly that entails, I can’t 100% say from the website itself, but it’s a good sign. They've also got an elevator, which is a HUGE win. I'd recommend contacting them directly to confirm specifics about accessibility. (Important!)
Alright, let's move on, shall we?
Online Life & the Digital World:
- Internet Access - This is kind of crucial in today's world, right? "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" they declare. Fantastic. They cover all of your wireless, public, and the 'in-room' options. I mean, seriously, who doesn't need to instantly upload their vacation pics and check their work emails? Although, let’s be real, sometimes it’s a struggle to pull up a decent signal anywhere now and days.
- Internet [LAN] - While they offer LAN access in all the rooms as well, which is great if you're a gamer or rely on a direct connection for work, I doubt it will be in use by a lot of people.
Things to Do That Might Actually Make You Relax (Or At Least Feel Like You're Trying):
Okay, the "Spa" section is where things get interesting. They've got the works: Body scrub, Body wrap, Fitness center, Foot bath, Gym/fitness, Massage, Pool with view, Sauna, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor].
Let me tell you about that Pool with a View: I’m a sucker for a good hotel pool. But the view? That's the game changer. I’m hoping it's not just a concrete rectangle staring at a parking lot. I'm envisioning mountains, maybe a gentle breeze, possibly a frosty cocktail… Okay, I'm getting ahead of myself. We'll see. Also, having a Spa and a Sauna is pretty good.
The Fitness center part is always a mixed bag. I give them props for having one, but let's be honest, hotel gyms are either gloriously empty or filled with people hogging the equipment who look like they're trying to break a new world record in bench pressing. We'll see what's what.
Cleanliness and Safety: Because Let's Face It, We're All a Little Germaphobic Now
Listen, the world’s changed, and I’m totally here for a hotel that takes cleanliness seriously. Merrill Farm's got a HUGE list here, including: Anti-viral cleaning products, Cashless payment service, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Shared stationery removed, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment.
That’s an impressive lineup. It feels like they truly are trying to offer the best and safest experience overall.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Because Calories Don't Count on Vacation (Right?)
Okay, food. This is where a hotel can really shine or… fall flat on its face. Merrill Farm boasts: A la carte in restaurant, Alternative meal arrangement, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Bottle of water, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant.
Wow, that's…A LOT. A bar is a must for me; it goes hand in hand with any vacation experience. And a Happy Hour? Even better!
I'm curious to see the International cuisine in restaurant. It could be fantastic, or it could be one of those things that tries to do too much and ends up being mediocre.
The Room service [24-hour] is always a lifesaver when the late-night munchies hit. Especially if you’ve been at the bar. Haha!
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Make a Big Difference
This is a long list : Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center.
Okay, so, let's talk about the most crucial service: Air conditioning in the public areas. Essential. I hate sweating in the lobby.
Daily housekeeping is necessary in my book, while Dry cleaning, and Laundry service are always helpful. I'm impressed by the Concierge, a great sign of a hotel that cares. And they’ve also got a Convenience Store? Boom, instant access to snacks and forgotten necessities.
For the Kids: Because Parents Need a Break Too
Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal.
Okay, parents, listen up. Merrill Farm seems to cater to families. That Babysitting service is GOLD. That Kids Menu might save your life.
Access, Getting Around, & Safety Features (The Boring But Necessary Stuff):
CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Check-in/out [express], Check-in/out [private], Couple's room, Exterior corridor, Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour], Hotel chain, Non-smoking rooms, Pets allowed unavailable, Proposal spot, Room decorations, Safety/security feature, Security [24-hour], Smoke alarms, Soundproof rooms, Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, Valet parking.
The security features are all positive, including 24-hour front desk and security. The Airport transfer, parking options, and taxi service are all practical.
In-Room Amenities: The Nitty-Gritty
This is a long list to cover everything from Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
This list is pretty comprehensive. The complimentary tea and free bottled water are always nice touches, and the blackout curtains are a necessity for a good night's sleep. Bathrobes and slippers? That's what I call a luxurious hotel.
Now, the Big Pitch: Why You Should Book Merrill Farm (My Honest Take)
Okay, here's the deal. Merrill Farm looks like a solid choice. They seem to have thought of everything – from the accessibility to the cleaning protocols to the vast array of dining options. It's not just about luxury; it's about convenience, comfort, and a safe and fun getaway.
Whether you want a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or just a relaxing getaway, Merrill Farm looks like it's trying to cater to everyone.
Here’s my super-duper, slightly-chaotic offer:
Book your stay at Merrill Farm Resort this month and get:
- Exclusive access to the Pool with a View VIP package: A complimentary cocktail at the poolside bar and a late check-out!
- A free upgrade to a room with a private balcony (subject to availability).
- **A guaranteed
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my (potentially disastrous) Merrill Farm Resort adventure. This itinerary isn't going to be all perfectly planned, Instagram-worthy moments - it's gonna be a messy, glorious, reality show.
Merrill Farm Resort: A Hot Mess Express of a Vacation (Tentative Schedule-ish)
Day 1: The Arrival & The Great Log Cabin Dream (Maybe?!)
- 1:00 PM (ish): ARRIVAL. Theoretically. Traffic on the way up to Conway, NH is a cruel mistress. Pray the GPS is kind and that I didn't somehow pack only left shoes. Upon arrival, I'll be on the lookout for the "rustic charm" that everyone raves about. Praying it’s not too rustic. I'm a city girl, after all.
- Anecdote: Last year, I booked a "cozy cabin" advertised as having a fireplace. Turns out, the fireplace was a glorified hole in the wall that coughed out more smoke than heat. I nearly choked to death whilst trying to roast a marshmallow. Let's hope Merrill Farm is kinder.
- 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM: CHECK-IN. Unpack. Survey the Scene. Fingers crossed the room matches the photos (a feat rarely accomplished in the vacation realm). I'll be looking for the essentials: clean sheets, functioning plumbing, and a generally non-creepy vibe. The cabin is the litmus test for the peace I had hoped for.
- 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM: CONWAY EXPLORATION (or at least an attempt). Okay, I need a plan. First, the basics: where's the grocery store for snacks and more importantly, wine? Then, maybe a quick drive through town, scoping out potential restaurants. Maybe spot a cute, local crafts store. Who knows, maybe I can find something for my sister. She really likes those wood-carved bears that look like they're about to maul you.
- 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM: The "Relaxation" Phase (ha!). Attempt to read a book. My brain usually goes into overdrive on the first day, so getting myself to stop moving will be a challenge. I'm going to try to avoid my screen, but let's be real, I'll probably be glued to my phone.
- 6:00 PM: DINNER. Local dinner, somewhere casual, I'm sure! Probably going to try a local restaurant, something that is not a chain. Fish and chips? Pizza? Who knows? So long as it doesn't involve a deep-fried Twinkie, I'm game.
- Quirky Observation: I bet everyone else here thinks they're getting away from it all. While I'm just hoping to find something to eat so I don't get hangry and blow up on my spouse.
Day 2: Mountains, Maybe A Hike? (Or Just Staring At Them)
- 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: The Morning Struggle. Gotta get up early to get caffeinated (coffee is non-negotiable). Maybe there's a continental breakfast at the resort, maybe I'll have to forage for myself. I don't mind.
- Emotional Reaction: My mood depends entirely on the quality of the coffee. If it tastes like swamp water, the day is already ruined. If it's at least drinkable, I'll consider a smile.
- 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Hiking (or, the "attempt" thereof). This is where the real ambition kicks in. I'm trying to embrace the outdoorsy vibe, but let's face it, I'm more of a "Netflix and chill" kind of person. We'll pick a relatively easy trail (hopefully without bears). If I make it to the summit, I'll consider it a personal victory. If not, I'll just enjoy the view and take a few photos for the 'gram.
- Opinionated Language: I hate the idea of strenuous exercise, but I'm forcing myself for the views!
- Messy Structure: Let's face it, I've probably already spent an hour scrolling through Instagram, so maybe it's not a total loss.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch. Pack a picnic? Buy takeout? Sandwiches? Salads? Let's face it, lunch will be planned in the morning, but still.
- 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Exploring the area. This might be an opportunity to go to a bookstore or a local business - the area has a lot of history built in.
- 4:30 PM: Happy Hour!!! Probably a beer or two and maybe some appetizers at the lodge.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner. Some sort of dinner. Maybe local? Maybe something else.
- Stronger Emotional Reaction: This is where I either fall in love with the mountains or vow to never leave the cabin again.
Day 3: The "Treat Yourself" Day (aka, Retail Therapy)
- 9:00 AM: Sleep in. Oh yes. I'm calling this a vacation. I'm taking advantage.
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: A Spa moment? Maybe there's a spa at the resort, or a local one. I'm thinking a massage is in order. Okay, I'll check the budget. I may have to settle with a long bath.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch. See above.
- 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Shopping, Baby! Time to hit the shops! It's time to treat myself.
- Anecdote: I once spent an entire afternoon in a department store, trying on clothes and buying nothing. I don't know why, but retail therapy does not work for me.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner. Fancy dinner? Or just a quiet night in?
- 7:00 PM: Movies
- Quirky Observation: Do they have a movie theatre? I need to know!
Day 4: Farewell, Merrill Farm (or at least, bye for now!)
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast. I'll take whatever is available at this point, I'm probably going to be exhausted.
- 10:00 AM: Check out.
- 10:30 AM: Last-minute souvenir hunt. Gifts! Okay, time to make sure I actually got something for all my loved ones.
- 11:00 AM: Final photos, one last look at the mountains.
- 11:30 AM: GOODBYE.
- 12:00 PM: Head home. I'll be daydreaming about my next vacation.
Things I Might Forget (because, let's be real, I'm human):
- Sunscreen (always forget that).
- Bug spray, though I'll probably get bitten anyway.
- Good walking shoes.
- That book I was SO excited to read.
- To actually, you know, RELAX.
Disclaimer: This itinerary is subject to change based on mood, weather, the availability of coffee, and general whimsy. Consider it more of a guideline than a rigid plan. Embrace the chaos! Wish me luck. And please, send wine.
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Merrill Farm Resort: So, You Wanna Go? Let's Talk FAQs (and My Brain's Ramblings)
1. Okay, spill it: What *is* Merrill Farm Resort, exactly? Sounds... vaguely New Hampshire-y.
Alright, alright, picture this: postcard-perfect Conway, NH. Think rolling hills, that crisp mountain air that slaps you awake, and… Merrill Farm! It's kinda like a… well, it *tries* to be a resort. Emphasis on "tries." It's a collection of rooms, suites and something they're calling a farmhouse, all nestled among some seriously beautiful views. They've got a pool (I’ll get to that later), a restaurant (also a story there), and enough space to, theoretically, avoid your in-laws. But, truth be told, you are in the middle of nowheresville which has its own charm.
2. What kind of rooms/accommodations are we talking? Anything… romantic?
Okay, so the rooms. They have the usual suspects: regular rooms, suites, and... yeah, the farmhouse. Some rooms are definitely… more dated than others. Think "updated 90s motel chic." Honestly? Romance isn't *exactly* what springs to mind. Unless your idea of romance is a slightly lopsided comforter and a view of the parking lot. Ask for a mountain view, seriously. Otherwise, you'll be staring at… well, the parking lot. The farmhouse? A bit more character, potentially. Think a slightly more rustic, home-y feeling. But I think I saw a cobweb once so, yeah, maybe not.
3. Speaking of pools… Is the pool any good? And what else is there To DO?
The pool... ok, this is where things get interesting. It *exists*. And it's… warm-ish. It's outdoors, which is great on a hot day, except when it's not. I remember one time, the pool was so packed, it was like a giant, chlorinated human soup. Kids screaming, inflatable toys everywhere… let's just say, it wasn't my Zen moment. They have a hot tub too. I *think*. I spent more time trying to find a lounger. The main thing to do is mountain activities or drive 1-2 hours to the Maine coast for fun. Which, to be honest, is an adventure unto itself.
4. Are there any activities at the resort itself? I'm not exactly keen on driving.
Oh, they claim to have some. They *say* they have hiking trails. I swear I saw a brochure promising a "nature walk." I tried this. Almost got lost. Followed a trail marker that completely disappeared. Found some very unhappy squirrels and a lot of mud. And a LOT of bugs. Also, I seem to remember a game room. Which, last I saw, consisted of a few arcade games that were older than my grandma, and a ping pong table that had clearly seen better days. If you're looking for actual entertainment on your doorstep, you might be… disappointed. Prepare to venture forth.
5. The restaurant! Tell me about the food. Is it edible?
Buckle up, buttercups. The restaurant… well, it's *there*. The food is… variable. One time, the steak was surprisingly decent. The next time, it was… let's just say, I spent the next day contemplating a colonoscopy. The breakfast buffet is the reliable option. Eggs, bacon, the usual suspects. Not life-changing, but gets the job done. My advice: lower your expectations. And bring your own snacks. You'll thank me later. And if you don't, there are plenty of lovely restaurants a short drive away, which I highly recommend (ask the front desk for recommendations!)
6. Any dining tips? Anything I *must* try (or absolutely avoid)?
Okay, so, MUST try: the… uh… breakfast. The pancakes are sometimes decent. Avoid: ordering anything too complicated. Stick to the basics. And maybe pack some emergency granola bars. Seriously, the hiking will make you hungry, and you'll be thankful for anything. The best bet is to leave the resort (which is one of the best parts of a stay) and scout out any number of little diners and restaurants nearby… much more memorable than Merrill Farm's food.
7. How much does it cost? Am I going to need to remortgage my house?
The prices… well, they fluctuate. It depends on the season, the day of the week, the phase of the moon, probably. Check the website, obviously. It's generally not *insanely* expensive, but it's not exactly a budget option either. Factor in potential food costs, and any activities you might want to do off-site. Be prepared for potential hidden fees, like the dreaded "resort fee." Those always get me.
8. Any tips for booking? Anything I should know?
Book in advance, especially if you're going during peak season (leaves changing, of course, or when the weather is just right!). Read the fine print! And pay *very* close attention to the cancellation policy. Because, let's be honest, things happen. Things *always* happen! Also, call the hotel directly and ask about the views. "Is it a parking lot view?" You might thank me. Don't be afraid to haggle. Seriously!
9. Is it family-friendly? Kids? Babysitters? Wild chaos?
Yeah, it’s family-friendly. Be prepared for kids everywhere. The pool is a magnet. The game room, if it's still in operation, will probably be overrun. Pack earplugs. You might need them. And as for babysitters? Your guess is as good as mine. Check with the front desk. Or maybe just embrace the chaos. That’s what I do at this point.
10. Overall, is Merrill Farm worth it? Is it a good time?
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