Fiesta Inn Express Durango

Parking was so hard to find that it cost this place a star. I couldn't see any signs from the street pointing to it. After asking several people, we learned it was in the basement, then got stuck in a confusing maze of poorly marked paths. We went around in circles for at least 15 minutes. It would've been almost funny if it weren't so frustrating and sad.

After driving for more than 24 hours, my family, our dog, and I were turned away, even though I had called a couple of days earlier to plan our stay. The guard in the basement made calls, then supervision said our little dog had to stay at the parking lot shack. I can't speak to what it was like staying there, but their system needs to change. People blamed one another and wouldn't explain what was going on. No one even apologized or thanked us for stopping by. If you're bringing a pet, have a second or third hotel in mind, because this could happen to you.

The staff were friendly and accommodating, and we had a beautiful city view from our large room with a king-size bed. It's an upscale hotel with a free gym, restaurant, and free high-speed WiFi. The rates are a little higher than One Durango hotel at, but the rooms are nicer.

Check-in was quick, and the service was good in general. Breakfast was a great buffet, and the gym works well for basic exercise. My only complaint was the mattress, which felt too soft for me.