Located across the street from San Jose's retail and dining options at the Pavilion and a block from the convention center, the Fairmont is San Jose's most luxurious hotel.

While its 808 guest quarters are somewhat plain vanilla in color and tone, Fairmont is Neapolitan with its furnishing flavors. The attractive rooms feature premium bedding with high thread count sheets, complimentary bottled water, 24-hour room service, large marble bathrooms with separate shower and tub, free local calls, and refrigerators.

The 3rd floor exercise center is a single-scoop of fitness fun. The internal room is windowless, making for a cavernous workout experience without natural light. The equipment quality is mixed; a few newer cardio machines but more older, gently used pieces. For this level of luxury, athletic-minded guests deserve better. Strength options are better with 7 Cybex machines and a 5-50 lbs. dumbbell set.

Swimmers and those looking for a free weight workout must look off-site to complete their sweat sessions. Water seekers should walk 10-minutes to San Jose State Aquatic Center ($3). Those seeking a traditional health club experience should walk 2 minutes to Bally Fitness ($10).