Bay Motel

I really don't get the high rating. The motel is about 7 km outside the city. I thought being away from downtown might be safer for our car equipment, since it felt remote, but the place smelled old and looked neglected. The carpet seemed old and unclean, and the bathroom was run down, with stained tub and sink, a broken toilet paper holder, and sow bugs. Water pressure and temperature were good, and the sheets and towels looked clean. The bedside light didn't work, and the beds creaked badly. The walls were thin enough that we heard the neighbors' TV, snoring, and conversation. Highway noise and a loud downspout right outside the window kept me from getting decent sleep. I'd pick somewhere else in North Bay.

This place has a character and heart that chain hotels don't, and the owners clearly care about it. It's an older building, but they keep updating what needs attention. The family who runs it are genuinely lovely. I've stayed a couple of times already. Rooms are spacious, beds are very comfortable, and the service is friendly. It's away from the city's bustle while still being close enough to get around easily. I'll happily come back.

I couldn't stay in the room for even an hour because it smelled so bad. It was dirty too, with hair on the toilet seat and a filthy tub. I got almost nothing in the room, just a small bottle of water and half a roll of toilet paper, so I ended up sleeping in my car. At check-in nobody was there. I had to call the guy, and the room was already open with the key on the table and people inside. I tried calling, but no one answered. I chose this place because of the good reviews, but it felt like a huge mistake. The reviews seemed fake to me.

The stay was pleasant, and check-in was simple. The room was clean, and it was easy to get help with the satellite TV, which I appreciated. They also pointed us to a great local pizza place. A grab bar in the tub and a hook behind the bathroom door would be useful, and having body wash or bar soap for the shower would be nice. All in all, a good stay.