Discover a curated rundown of five hotel chains to steer clear from, and the reasons why. Uncover their superior counterparts offering excellent service and satisfying stays, making your travel experience memorable and absolutely worth every penny.
If the logo's lurid orange hue didn't tip you off, Motel 6's reputation for questionable quality should. Some things have improved over the years, such as the departure from painfully generic decor in some locations. However, other common complaints persist, such as thin walls, dingy bathrooms, and questionable cleanliness. It may be a go-to for budget travel, but it's worth shelling out a bit more for peace of mind (and an undisturbed sleep).
Pulling into a Hampton Inn after a long day of travel feels like returning to a playful, lighthearted home—no lurid logos in sight. While it's a budget-friendly chain, it doesn't sacrifice quality in the pursuit of affordability. Hamptons are known for excellent, free breakfasts (not the “grab a sad apple and a stale pastry” sort of breakfast you might find elsewhere) and clean, comfortable rooms. Plus, their satisfaction guarantee means they’re willing to put their money where their mouth is.
If the word 'memorable' springs to mind when you think of your accommodation, one would hope it’s for positive reasons. Unfortunately, Days Inn often earns this descriptor for all the wrong reasons: an archaic aesthetic, iffy bedding, and a worrying number of reviews mentioning odors of questionable origin. It may seem cheap and cheerful from the outside, but it's a gamble as to whether you'll be checking out feeling cheerful or not.
The memorable experience at Holiday Inn Express is far better than a roll of the dice. Boasting a trendy update that encapsulates wider hallways, bolder color schemes, and an overall modern aesthetic, it steps up the game. Additionally, guests rave about their breakfast spread, comfortable beds, and cordial staff - proving there's substance beneath that stylish surface.
The clue's in the name: Econo screams economic, which in theory could be great. However, it regularly falls short of the mark, being infamous for unfriendly staff, questionable cleanliness, and even safety concerns. Paying a bargain price seems too good to pass up, but when it comes at the expense of comfort and peace of mind, it might be best to avoid.
As another offering from the Choice Hotels group, Comfort Inn substantially surpasses its sibling, Econo Lodge. Catering to both leisure and business travelers, accommodations are designed with comfort in mind (hence the name). With well-appointed rooms, free continental breakfast, and friendly service, it makes for the ideal no-frills option without compromising substance for savings.
No one wants to feel like they're sleeping in a relic of the past - unless they've specifically planned a heritage-themed holiday, of course. But stepping into some Travelodge locations feels like a time warp back to the 80s. Dated decor aside, some guests have reported issues around cleanliness and maintenance, and that's not mentioning the hit-or-miss customer service.
The Ibis chain is the perfect antidote to Travelodge's retro hangover. Known for their stylish yet affordable rooms, Ibis hotels are reliable and offer excellent value for money without skimping on the essentials. Rooms are usually small but well designed for functionality. The modern feel, good cleanliness, and extensive breakfasts all add up to provide a cheerful, viable alternative.
While 'Quality' may be in the name, past experiences have called this into question for some travelers. Guests often criticize the chain for falling short in the cleanliness department and having outdated facilities. Attention to detail seems subpar which doesn't bode well in the hospitality industry where the smallest touches can make the biggest difference.
Owned by the well-respected Marriott brand, Fairfield Inn & Suites has a reputation for delivering quality services. Guests often laud the chain for its attention to detail, tidiness, and fresh look thanks to regular updates. The ever-present friendly customer service and delightful complimentary breakfast, however, is the cherry on top. Fairfield Inn & Suites proves that Quality isn't just a name, it's an experience.
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