La Unica

Having to use a shared outdoor shower, rather than one in the room, wasn’t clearly explained beforehand. The room and accommodations also didn’t live up to what I expected. The response from staff felt insensitive and disappointing. We were basically told not to expect better treatment because the place was cheap. That attitude was unacceptable. The whole stay was frustrating and uncomfortable, and whatever money we saved wasn’t worth it. Service, cleanliness, and transparency all fell short. I wouldn’t come back or recommend it.

I paid for a clean, private room and got neither. The booking site pictures didn’t match how the room was furnished. The sheets were stained and dirty, and the shower had soap scum and dirt on the floor and wall, with clumps of hair stuck to the wall. Roaches were living in the shower wall. Several lights didn’t work, and an overhead sprinkler hung from the ceiling with a hole around it. The door connecting to the adjoining room wouldn’t lock and kept opening. I tied a cheap folding chair to the knob and set my oversized duffel bag on it. The knob itself latched properly, so it didn’t seem like the door was simply coming open on its own, and the movement of the building wouldn’t have pulled a chair with a 20-pound bag in it. I chose to sleep in my car, since at least I knew those doors locked. The property still expects payment even when it doesn’t provide what you paid for.

For $75.00 I got two nights at La Unica. My room was quiet and clean, with a comfortable bed that was better than one I’d had at a pricier hotel before switching here. There was a toilet and sink but no shower or tub, plus a TV, microwave, and fridge. The place is old, but it’s clean and feels safe, with cameras, a fenced lot, and good lighting. The grounds are pretty and well kept, and the staff I met were friendly and helpful. It’s in a family-friendly Hispanic neighborhood, with gas stations and food nearby. It used to be a nursery home, which I found charming. Some reviews seem to judge it like a three-to-five-star hotel, and it isn’t one. Still, it’s interesting, well located, and a place I’ll definitely stay again.

The staff went above and beyond while my grandmother and I were visiting from Dallas. We’d booked the cheapest room to save money, which meant we would’ve had to walk across the hall to shower. When the kind staff saw my 90YO granny at check-in, they upgraded us so she’d have a shower in the room. Their kindness to both of us meant a lot, and the place was well maintained and well worth the price. This was the best customer service I’ve experienced in a long time. I’ll remember La Unica the next time I’m in Austin.