Candlewood Suites Alabaster by IHG

We needed somewhere to rest after driving for hours, but the woman at the desk barely acknowledged us and seemed uninterested in helping. When I asked if she could get my partner and me a room right then, she said we couldn't check in yet, then walked away to answer a call on her cell after saying she'd be back. We waited 10 minutes before I gave up and left. She didn't seem to care that we'd been on the road and needed a place to rest, so I can't recommend this place. We went to the Ramada around the corner instead, and it was great. The woman there took the time to listen and help us get a room. The customer service was outstanding, and the beds were comfy and rooms clean. I'll review them directly too.

Izabella has been especially polite and courteous, and I really appreciate her customer service. Gabbie is also great at sorting out any issues I have. The staff overall are amazing, and the rooms are well maintained.

My belongings were taken out of my room while I was away for food, even though checkout was at 12:00 PM. I left around 9:00 AM and was gone for no more than 20-30 minutes. When I got back, everything had been cleared out and stuffed into bags labeled “Lost and Found by Housekeeper,” as though I had left for good. The front desk clerk stopped me and kept asking if I was checking out. I said no and reminded her checkout was at noon. She just said housekeeping had already cleaned out the room. There was no apology or concern, and she blamed me for not telling her I wasn't checking out when I stepped out to get food. Expecting that is absurd and shows a lack of common sense, training, and basic hospitality. Her dismissive attitude made it seem like she thought she'd done nothing wrong. This happened during my stay from 1/4/2026-1/5/2026. From check-in, I felt unwelcome. The clerk was rude and careless, and this incident was invasive, disrespectful, and entirely preventable. Management should be very concerned about this location and its impact on the brand. I don't recommend this hotel under any circumstances.

Our granddaughter attends college in nearby Montevallo and plays AAU women's soccer, so we go to as many of her home matches as we can. The parent/grandparent rate is $99/night, with parking included, and shopping is nearby. The rooms are large, and each has a kitchenette with an electric two-burner cooktop, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, coffee maker, and full refrigerator. The building is somewhat older but has recently been refreshed. Any challenges we've had were resolved in our favor. The evening staff are exceptionally charming and helpful. There's also a free 24/7 coffee machine and an honor-system snack room beside the front desk with inexpensive items.