Best Western Strathmore Inn

The staff were kind and especially great with the kids, and the beds were comfortable. That’s what kept this from being a two-star stay for me. A $30 fee to check in before 4 p.m. felt ridiculous. Our room was only serviced on the first day, and nobody explained how to request cleaning. There wasn’t even a door tag to use. I probably wouldn’t choose this hotel first for another hockey tournament.

The cleanliness, comfort, and service here put some older hotels to shame. Someone has done a great job turning a place I used to drive past into the kind of comfortable hotel I look for from other brands. If this belongs to a group with other hotels in Canada, I’d love to know where they are so I can stay at them on my frequent trips.

We stayed five days after checking in on Canada Day. The staff were good that first day, but one room had insects. We reported it and got moved the next day, only to find the carpet in the new room was wet. The owner said they would do something financially for us. Breakfast was another problem over the following days. The counter wasn’t kept properly full, and one employee was left handling reception, serving food, and taking out garbage, all while wearing the same gloves. Other guests kept complaining, and I felt bad for her.

Our car broke down and left my wife and me stranded, and the staff took us in. They let us spend most of the day in the lobby making calls and sorting out arrangements. That kindness meant the world to me. I’ll be back and would recommend this hotel to anyone.