Holiday Inn - the niu, Square Mannheim by IHG

Getting in and out was simple, and parking was easy. There were plenty of spaces over the weekend. You just take a ticket and tell the front desk when you check out. The staff were friendly and helped if you'd forgotten something, and there are a few businesses nearby that are open 24 hours. The hotel is beside a tram line that goes straight to the city center without a transfer. Breakfast had everything I needed, and staff kept the area in order so everyone could find what they wanted and seats stayed available. I'd stayed in Mannhiem before and wanted to try this location.

The breakfast was good, and the hotel is easy to reach by tram. It's within walking distance of the Technology Museum and Planetarium, though it's not right in the center of Mannheim. The rooms are small but nicely decorated, and it's quiet outside. You may hear some noise from neighboring rooms. It's a good stay if the room size works for you, with an upscale budget hotel feel.

The room was tiny, about the size of a tissue box, and the elevator left us stuck for 10 minutes on the way up to the fourth floor. That was scary. At check-in, we were also told the building had no hot water and that they were working on it. With the temperature outside at 10 degrees, taking a cold shower wasn't an option for me. They didn't offer any discount for the inconvenience. The online price showed $83, but we were charged $145. It was a horrible experience, and I'll never stay here again. I'd strongly encourage others to look elsewhere. If I could give negative stars, I would.

Good, tasty breakfast and clean, great rooms. The beds were king-size and really comfortable, and the staff at reception were friendly. I'd come back if I'm in Mannheim, Germany.