Hotel Emma at Pearl on the Riverwalk

I sent this email to Hotel on March 29 and never got a response. I am writing about a recent stay at the Hotel Emma. I checked in on March 27th and checked out today, march 29th. This stay was supposed to be stress free break after a difficult work week. My stay was less than relaxing. I started out in room 307 and woke in the night with a terrible headache and my right eye tearing. The room smelled of smoke that was coming in through the vents or window. I called downstairs to ask about the smell and they sent someone with an air purifier. This led me to believe this must happen frequently. I ended up having to pack up my stuff and wait for another room on the other side of the hotel away from the outside fireplace and vents that were just outside my window. Later that afternoon I was given room 610 where I was able to take something for my head and relax a little. Shortly thereafter, the toilet in the bathroom started running non-stop. They sent up engineering and it was fixed. I did notice that the halls of the hotel also smell of smoke which leads me to believe there is a problem with the hotel's ventilation. The below picture shows the vents immediately outside the room. Given the cost of the room at the hotel, I expected a significantly better experience. For the cost of one night at the Hotel Emma, I could stay at The Plaza in Manhattan and had service and comfort that far exceeds the Hotel Emma. I think it is important for guests to know what to expect at the hotel especially given the cost and the smokey smell was not disclosed. Had I known, I would have stayed elsewhere for much less and a better experience.It was a very disappointing stay aside from the very kind people that work at the hotel.

Everything was in the luxury class. Not cheap. Impeccable service. The hotel is unique and detailed with exquisite taste. There is a library featuring the collection of a local scholar and they serve drinks. A very Zen hotel. Not sure if they have a gym but there is a small pool. Supper delivered excellent - though not adventurous - cuisine.

Lovely hotel in every way possible. Impeccable service & ambiance. One of my favorite in the world. We visit at least twice per year.

This is the nicest hotel I've ever stayed in. The staff knows your name and they make every effort to ensure a personal experience. I just completed a survey with lots of words for Hotel Emma - and I was very complementary. I'm typed out or I'd say more. ;)

Definitely the place to stay. The restaurants, bar, library, and the spa. A special shout to Sebastian. My guest was 94 years old and was concerned about the walk to the spa. Sebastian took us through a short cut and walked her to the door. Just his extra effort and care shows the true content of his character. I can't praise Sebastian enough.

Our favorite hotel and the only place we stay when visiting San Antonio. The employees attention to detail far exceeded our expectations and they made celebrating my birthday beyond special. I am a I Prefer Hotel member and the perks really do make staying at the Hotel Emma a wonderful and rewarding experience.