Super 8 by Wyndham Austin North/University Area

I stay in hotels more than 125 days a year and hardly ever leave reviews, but Cathy and all the staff here were so wonderful I had to say something. Don't be put off by the 3 star rating. They're 4.5 to 5.0 all day. David, the security guard, helps keep the place safe with a kind but firm presence. Three stars doesn't do them justice.

I slept soundly, caught the game and some racing on TV, and had no trouble with the toilet or hot water. The room was cleaned each day while I was at work, and the towels were always fresh. I stayed eight days and didn't see any bugs or roaches. The fourth floor halls were clean, though a little warm. The room AC worked great, and there were snack vending machines. Staff were friendly, and the weekend coffee was fantastic. No complaints from me. It's a good budget option, and I'll be back soon.

I won't stay here again. The front door to room #105 was broken and wouldn't close or lock. You could push it and walk right in, so anyone could have entered while I slept or showered. The older woman at the desk must have known before giving me the room, but I didn't want to bring it up because she was rude, talked down to me, and kept interrupting. I've stayed here many times, and she's been rude every time. The other desk staff are nice. I reported her to the manager, and later he came to my room and confirmed I didn't need to put down another deposit. When I asked to extend my stay by two days, she demanded another $50 deposit even though I was keeping the same room. She yelled at me in front of other customers. I recorded the whole conversation and reported her to corporate. I chose another Austin hotel for the next two nights because I didn't want to deal with her again. Also, at 8am I was eating in the breakfast room when a homeless man came in with a six pack of beer, mumbled something I couldn't understand, and sat at my table. Later I saw him in the outdoor hot tub playing loud music and drinking. He told me he was homeless. It seemed like the hotel lets anyone come in to eat, drink beer, and use the hot tub.

The lot had plenty of room, and the spaces were easy to get in and out of. The lobby and halls were clean and odor free. Our room was cool when we arrived, clean, and functional. The TV had more than 160 channels with enough volume, and the ice machine and other amenities worked. We'd recommend it and stay again.