Rideau Heights Inn

The room was quiet, clean, and comfortable, which made it a good place to rest before or after a flight. The bed and fresh linens were great, and everything worked. The inn is handy for the airport, and the staff made check-in easy with a friendly welcome. Some of the furnishings are older, though the place is cared for and seems to have had a few recent upgrades. Good value, and I’d stay again.

I accepted the $200 credit card deposit at check-in, but then the clerk manually entered my full card details, including the security code, into their database. They also insisted on copying my government ID, with all its personal information. I offered to show it for verification, but declined to let them keep a copy. The clerk refused and would not check me in. I believe this creates a serious identity theft risk, since properties should be able to check that an ID matches the booking and cardholder without retaining a copy. The owner then told me to cancel and promised a refund, even though I was past the free cancellation period. Once I contacted Expedia, the owner changed position and refused the refund. Expedia reviewed what happened, found the motel at fault, and refunded me in full. I don’t trust Rideau Heights Motel’s handling of personal data or its customer service. For small independent properties, I’d use a booking service with third-party protection, such as TripAdvisor, and avoid this motel.

I liked the old-school feel here, right down to getting a real key instead of a card. The room was roomy, clean, and comfortable, and the property itself is lovely. It’s well placed too, about a 15-minute drive from both the new Hard Rock Casino and Ottawa’s trendy neighbourhoods.

The garden-like setting, with all the trees and grass, felt calm and peaceful. My room was spacious and clean, and the price was the best. As a woman travelling alone, I felt safe, and I liked having my car right outside the door. That’s one reason I prefer motels. The man at the desk was friendly and efficient, and I like that they give you a key instead of plastic. Some people have left bad reviews, but if you need perfection, pay for a more expensive hotel. I love this motel’s quiet vibe.