Squamish Budget Inn

We ended up cancelling and asking for our money back. The man at reception, who I think was also the owner, initially refused, but did eventually refund us. Before arriving, we tried calling for more than three hours to let them know we’d be late, with no answer. At check-in we were told the debit machine was switched off, so cash was required, and we got no receipt. The building outside looked about 15 years older than the photos. The bathroom was filthy, there was a mark from a dead bedbug on the bed, and the other bed had hair on it. I wish I could give this zero stars. Never booking here again.

We finally got a room at 9pm, apparently at the expense of another tired traveller, after a bit of a verbal stoush. The room itself wasn't too bad. Earlier, we’d tried to check in around 1, but nobody was there until 2:30, so we went to Whistler. We called the motel twice from there to say we’d be back later, and nobody picked up. When we returned, the guy in the lobby said there were no rooms left. Had a good laugh at the whole thing.

We were in Whistler on a whim, couldn’t find a room, and drove to Squamish. At reception the door was locked, and the guy behind the counter seemed startled when we knocked. He agreed to let us see a room before paying, thankfully. Opening the door released years of third-hand cigarette smoke and mold. The carpet had red stains, and the bed was dirty and unkempt. We said no thanks and left. In the rear-view mirror, the receptionist was standing in the road, and I think he was yelling for us to come back. Absolutely not. Worst inn, motel, or hotel I’ve ever seen.

We were stuck here as a last resort because a big event had filled everything in town, but our stay turned out reasonable, despite the horrid reviews. The second floor wasn’t too bad for traffic, and the twin beds were comfortable. We appreciated the air conditioning, microwave, fridge, and carpet that still looked good and new. The owner was pleasant to deal with, a bit quirky, and clearly trying hard to accommodate people. It’s a tough business. The bathroom is wretchedly tiny, and I was glad I brought shower shoes and my own camping kit. The cupboard dishes all needed a good wash. It’s an adventure, which is part of travelling.