I've stayed at two different Econo Lodges in the past couple of days. The first was Little Creek in Norfolk, VA. It was ok. The top cover on the bed had some spots so I just pulled it off. The bed creaked a lot on the sides, and they didn't change the sheets when they made the bed (I could tell bc of my hair, I didn't mind but figured people should know in case that's a problem for them). Breakfast is skimpy but that's to be expected. And even though it was a nonsmoking room, the ventillation in the bathroom must connect to a smokers room because it periodically stank (This is my only real complaint). And in the night it was a little sketchy. But...the staff was super friendly and helpful, the bed was comfy, the room was generally clean and quiet, and it's right across from a highly rated restaurant (Groovy something or other). For about $60 a night, not bad at all. The second Econo Lodge is on Saul White Road in North Charleston, SC. It's much nicer. The area is all hotels and outlet stores and restaurants (some of which deliver) so it feels safer, and it's right next to the highway which is good for us tourists. The bed cover is softer, seems cleaner, the bed doesn't squeak all the time, and the mattress is softer. The water pressure is hiiiiiiiigh (good for some, bad for me especially after the sunburn) but thankfully both Econo Lodges had really wide and deep tubs which is cool. My only complaints with this last hotel are 1: The gaps between the door and it's frame are wide (enough to show quite a bit of light, but not quite wide enough for people to see in). I have to double check whether it's open or not a lot, and the rubber bottom of the frame is popped up so I've tripped on it a couple times. Not awful since it's warm here, but makes me wonder about water damage and it's a little disconcerting as I'm on the bottom floor. And 2: This area is right near the airport. I didn't think I would mind that since I live near an airport, but it must be super close to the lanes. It's so loud, the first time I heard it I sincerely thought a plane was going to crash right next to us. Maybe it's the area, maybe it's the gaps in the door. I'm used to it now. In any case, this hotel is well worth the...
Read moreThis is probably the best Econo Lodge I've ever stayed in! While the exterior doesn't necessarily give that first impression, the inside of the rooms are completely renovated. Bed was comfortable, refrigerator had a completely separate freezer (always a bonus), and the wifi was fast and stable. The location is also great, with a convenience mart and brewery within walking distance and tons of other restaurants within a few minute drive. Very close to airport, 10 short minutes to downtown Charleston, and 15 minutes to sights in Mt. Pleasant area.||I was warned upon check-in not to run the AC too cold due to the humidity and the risk of the machine freezing up. While I never had this problem (and I like it cold), the fan didn't seem to have a high setting, and an error light was on the unit the whole time. Fixing this would probably resolve their freezing problem, but the room did get cold, so no worries from me. Breakfast was not provided (They said it was because their breakfast area does not meet the size requirements set by the city for social distancing. Better excuse than most, but they could still do to-go bags if they really wanted... Or at least have coffee in the lobby.) The office was also not open at check-out, making it so that I couldn't get a receipt or tell them about their AC issue.||I really wanted to give this hotel 5 stars because of how nice the rooms were and how generally smooth my stay was. I will definitely consider this hotel if I return to Charleston again. But not having the lobby open for check-out frustrated me just enough to...
Read moreWe arrived shortly after check in time, seemed like hotel was short staffed, as we had to wait a few minutes in the front office before someone appeared to greet us. She apolozgized for the wait, and stated that she was tied up helping to clean a room. She quickly confirmed our reservation, and told us how to get to our room. Entering the room was a nice surprise. It didn't smell musty, and was totally renovated and looking like a much more expensive room than it was! From the outside of the hotel, you would never think it was this nice inside. The area leaves a little to be desired though, as it seemed just a tad seedy. The Outlet Mall is just down the road, so shopping is convienient. The area is loud, with constant traffic on the street, and Interstate 26 right behind it. It must be near a military base also, as loud military planes fly overhead frequently. It seems to be frequented by migrant contractors and temporary workers, with several men outside our room late at night talking. Our request of an upstairs room was granted without problem. There are no irons or ironing boards in the room, but you can obtain one without charge from the front desk. They have a daily continental breakfast with fruit, muffins, cereal and the like, but no hot food. The staff, even though few were noticed, was very friendly and seemed helpful. The desk clerk that checked us in called shortly afterward to ask if everything was okay. I found it to be a clean acceptable place to stay if you are on a budget and want to...
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