Courtyard by Marriott Albany Thruway

The staff were great, and the beds were comfortable. The location was convenient, and the work areas in the room and shared spaces were what I expected. I’m giving it four stars because it was very cold outside and, although my room never got cold, it had a hard time warming up.

I usually choose Marriott because it’s an established chain, and I’ve never been this dissatisfied with one. I don’t like leaving bad reviews, so I’ll keep it simple. The price wasn’t worth the hype. The dining area was beautiful, with tables and workstations, though I didn’t try the food. Staff were friendly, kind, and helpful. The first room smelled strongly of marijuana, so I asked to move. The second had no smell and looked clean at first, but it wasn’t. There was a big black shoe print in the filthy tub, hair on the walls and towels, and a toilet that made a plopping sound when I sat down. A sewage smell came with every flush. The comforters had visible stains and the same black shoe marks, and the beds looked like someone had already slept in them. A dirty, squashed decorative pillow sat on a chair that was questionably clean. The carpet had black spots and odd stains. The parking lot wasn’t secured, and someone dinged my car. The fitness room was clean and organized, with free weights and some cardio machines. I glanced at the pool, so I can’t comment on it. It’s near Albany State University, which may suit people visiting someone at college, and there’s a Walmart nearby. I left some commas out on purpose, just like I should’ve left my money out of this Marriott.

The bathroom felt a bit small next to the large, spacious room. The bed was really hard, which I hated, though anyone who likes a very firm mattress may love it.

When I first stayed for 45 days, I wrote about cleanliness and my experience. Tiffany Anderson from upper management contacted me, asked me to give them another chance, and offered a free night. I agreed and came back two weeks later. The promised comp never came at first, and the cleanliness hadn’t changed much. On the first day, the bathtub backed up when I showered, and murky water came up through the drain. I took photos and video and showed the front desk, who promptly moved me to another room. Before bed, I noticed a brownish spot on one pillow and set it aside without using it. I wanted to see whether the sheets would be changed during my stay. After seven days, that pillowcase was still there. Tiffany, who I was told is a regional manager, had asked me to return, and I kept my end of the deal. Two weeks after that visit I still hadn’t received the promised free night. I emailed her to follow up and heard nothing. I have her promise in writing. This didn’t reflect well on Marriott’s standards or its word, and if staff make you a promise, make sure they provide it upfront. Update, 06/30/2025: I received an email today with the rewards points we agreed on. Thank you, Tiffany, for honoring the agreement. I appreciate you being an upstanding person.