Holiday Inn Cleveland by IHG

The bed and pillows were more comfortable than any I can remember in a hotel. The pillows were labeled firm and soft, which was a nice touch. We also liked the refillable soap and shampoo, and the free EV charging right at the front of the parking lot was a welcome surprise. Breakfast wasn’t included, but at $8 per person it was easily the best eight-dollar breakfast I’ve had. Real Belgian-style waffles, eggs made to order, and better-than-average potatoes. We were impressed. We stopped for one night on the drive back from Sanibel Island. It’s right off the highway, and the price was great, although on a random weeknight you can find good rates lots of places. Check-in took a while, mostly because the guest ahead of us was flirting with the woman at the counter, so I don’t blame the hotel. The carpets could use a steam clean. They weren’t dirty, just a bit dingy, and we only noticed because everything else exceeded our expectations. We’ve never put a hotel in our travel book before, but we added this one.

The room was spacious and clean, though the decor felt drab and it wasn’t as welcoming or comfortable as I’d like. The window shade wouldn’t go up. Still, it was a good stay. The hotel is close to the interstate, with several places to eat nearby. It has its own dinner restaurant, but we were only there overnight and didn’t try it.

The TV picture was very pixelated, and breakfast costs extra. When booking, they add that charge to your room. It’s restaurant-style with a few options. We had biscuits and gravy, scrambled eggs, two strips of bacon, and potatoes. It was good and there was plenty of food. The staff were wonderful, and the rooms were clean and nice.

The beds were comfy, and the rooms were clean. It also seemed fairly new, and the lobby smelled great when we walked in. I’d definitely stay here again.