MainStay Suites Abbotsford

A great park with a river is right behind the building, nice for a jog or bike ride. The studio setup is comfortable for two, though maybe not perfect, and the bathroom is fine. It’s quiet, and I liked having a balcony. The location works well too, with a supermarket next door and cafés, pubs and restaurants nearby. One direction is pleasant to walk in, and the upper level is good; the other side is less appealing.

The rooms were good and the location was ideal, but the price we were given on arrival didn’t match what we’d been told over the phone. We’d booked a studio at $350, then were told it would cost $400 for the night. With no backup and everything mostly booked out, I ended up staying. Staff really need to communicate better over the phone.

The reception staff were friendly and sorted out the small issue we had quickly. The apartment also had a useful layout, with a desk in the kitchen and lounge area, and a sliding door that let us separate the bedroom from the living space. The location was convenient, but we couldn’t use the balcony because of the street noise. The main problem was the smell. It was noticeable as soon as we entered, and even in the parking basement. It seemed like it might be damp, mould or a drainage issue, though that could be a building problem the operator can’t do much about. The bathroom was dark and dank, and the drain smell reached the bedroom between it and the noisier street-facing living area. We stayed three nights in a one-bedroom apartment facing Victoria Street. The odour really affected the stay. Someone less sensitive to smells might find the apartment acceptable, but it’s a major drawback for me. I’m also curious why Quest left this site, though I don’t know the answer. We’d look for somewhere else next time.

The staff were accommodating when we asked for a late checkout, and they offered us another room when the TV in ours didn’t work. Still, the stay was a bit disappointing. Other guests were very loud and the rooms don’t block much sound. I also wish the website had said parking costs $30 per night.