Holiday Inn Coatzacoalcos by IHG

The beach was very dirty and full of trash, and you’ll need a taxi to get to most places. The pool, though, was clean and not too cold even with a strong sea breeze. Food at the restaurant was good. My room was quiet, dark, and nice, with air conditioning, a large TV, a coffee pot, and WiFi. There was a good view of the beach and mountains. I didn’t have hot water on the first day.

The rooms, service, and location are excellent. They should fix the air conditioning in reception and the lobby, and put in temporary fans like the ones at Mina airport.

I paid about $75 for a two-bedroom room. It’s right by the beach, and I first came here six years ago. It was nicer then, and could use some updating now. The linens and towels looked worn, but the room was clean and the internet was fast. Call the front desk if you need a taxi.

Holiday Inn Coatzacoalcos is an okay hotel, but the billing was my main problem. At booking, they asked for a partial payment of $54, with the remaining $118 due at check-in. When I arrived, they charged the full $172 to my card. Neither Travelocity nor the hotel staff really did anything to fix it. I also paid extra for an ocean-view room, but ended up looking at the restaurant roof. I had proof they received the request, yet they didn’t move me when I told them. I paid extra for breakfast, too, and got no refund for the view. It was my husband’s first time in my hometown, and this really ruined the experience. I think this hotel is only worth considering if you want a basic room. They don’t honor requests, even when you pay extra.