Valley Inn Motel & Suites

I didn't book this hotel or know about it beforehand. The airline company, Sudbury Aviation, Ontario, arranged my stay in 2008. I was unsure what to expect and thought I'd be getting at least a star hotel, but as soon as I walked in I was thrilled. I'll always remember the owner of Sudbury Aviation, Capt. Marg Watson, saying she'd change my accommodation if I didn't like it. The hotel is beside the road and railway track, with a bus stand right across from the entrance. I think it had over 70 rooms, though I can't remember the exact number. They were all insulated against the severe cold, and in my view that was better than some so-called star hotels. The design is a bit unusual. I think an earlier owner may have been Italian, though I could be wrong. There was a working restaurant, coffee bar, free laundry, and gym. Coffee and bread were free whenever you came by, and the food was delicious and reasonably priced. I was lucky enough to have dinner with the owner and family. At first I hesitated, but they insisted that if I stayed there, I had to eat with them, asking why I'd eat out when visiting someone's home. I didn't know the owners until I met them. They were Indian, and the family also owned a hotel in New York. Humble, honest, down-to-earth people are rare, and their hospitality and humanity overwhelmed me. I've stayed in many kinds of hotels for work, but this is the best one I've ever been to. Thank you, Jeetu bhai.