Something I have had to live with my entire life is my sensitivity to my environment. Whether it be pressure systems from fronts passing through, or certain foods, the oddest things can set off allergy attacks for me. One of my worst problems is worth cleaning products, and yesterday I was nearly knocked on my ass by this one.

I made my way to Kansas City yesterday for my early morning flight to Las Vegas today.  I had a reservation at the Courtyard Kansas City Airport, a part of the Marriott chain, the hotels favored by family.  While I had read that this particular location had recently been renovated, but I didn’t see any reason why that should be a problem.

A land speed record may have been set by how fast I checked out.

When I got into the lobby I could smell a bit of an odor, but nothing overpowering.  I got my key and went around to park my car and get into my room.  As soon as I entered the hallway the ammonia smell was pretty powerful, but once in my room it was overpowering.  The picture with this post?  That’s pretty much how I looked as hives immediately broke out on the backs of both my hands.

I called the front desk, told them I was leaving and I needed to find another Marriott property immediately.  They told me which one would suit me, and I was out of there.

While I realize that not many people have my allergy problem, the general unpleasantness of the smell couldn’t have been pleasing to any one.  Certainly something could have been done to air out the building before guests stayed there?  When I say the smell was overpowering, I mean … it was overpowering, knock you on your ass strength.

Again, I don’t expect places to cater to my allergies, there’s no way anyone could predict this, but really?  Absolutely no one thought to air it out?  Seriously?  Oh well, I’m in a location not messing with me now … but man this chair is uncomfortable.