Masters Inn Atlanta - Doraville at I-85 & 285

I was looking for a one-night stay for the 2819 event at Statefarm Arena and called this motel after seeing reviews that raised concerns about cleanliness. I asked whether they reflected the motel's current condition. The guy at the desk just said, "up to you". What? It sounded almost like a threat, like, come find out for yourself, lol. Hearing that some people don't get refunds didn't reassure me either. If anyone actually stays here, let me know how it is, lmaooo.

The room smelled old, damp, stuffy, and mildewy. The A/C vent badly needs cleaning, which might help the odor, and the bottom of the bathroom door was in bad shape. Bring two spray cans, one for bugs and flying insects, the other as deodorizer. They require a $50 cash deposit before handing over the room key card. I've never run into that before. But after paying through a third party, it feels like there's no choice but to pay or argue with the booking agents.

I'm hard to please, an introvert who likes things clean and quiet, and this hidden gem suits me. Some people might turn their noses up at it, but that's their loss. The rooms are quiet, the staff don't allow parties, and the prices are a little high but fair. I've been here a month and may stay another couple of months. I don't mind. The staff are vigilant and keep track of my shift changes better than I do. When I'm working nights, they wait until 2 or 3 p.m. to knock about towels. I like the affordable washers and dryers, though I wish there were snack machines with detergent. I've had a maid once a week, and the room's still great, with no crumbs on the way to bed. I wish the online prices matched what you pay in person. Expect surprise fees: a $50 cash deposit if you book online, and a 20% fee if you pay by card, with no fee for cash. There's an ATM in the lobby that charges $3 per transaction. Watch the options after entering your PIN, too. Choose withdraw, not balance check, or you'll waste $2.50.

The room was comfortable and clean, though the TV remote was missing. I still had a good stay despite those hiccups. I don't understand the cash deposit, unless the point is to push guests toward the lobby ATM, which I'm sure they own.