Hampton Inn & Suites Columbia/Southeast-Ft. Jackson

What disappointed me most was the customer service. We’ve stayed here before and always liked it, but this visit was very different. I don’t know what changed in management or service, but the experience had gone downhill. We arrived around 6:00 on a Friday night, and the first room smelled of stale cigarette smoke. I’m recovering from pneumonia and didn’t want to sleep in it. When I politely asked to move, the woman at the desk first said they were sold out. Then a man offered to check and found a room on the sixth floor. It seemed better at first, but within 20 minutes smoke filled the hallway and was coming into our room. I went back down and calmly explained what was happening, saying I’d never had this kind of smoke problem at a Hampton Inn or Hilton before. The woman said the only thing she could do was cancel the room and refund us. It was 7:30 at night, nearby hotels were sold out because of a football game and other town events, and we had to be up by 5:30 the next morning. We were paying almost 400 dollars for the night, so I asked if any compensation was possible for having to endure cigarette smoke in what was supposed to be a non-smoking hotel while I was just getting over pneumonia. I understand things happen, but she said they couldn’t compensate us or do anything. The man came upstairs, agreed the smoke was bad, and apologized. He was kind and helpful and understood why I was upset. The other woman offered little, if any, help. As a longtime Hilton Honors member, I expected better and was very disappointed. This used to be a nice hotel, but this wasn’t acceptable, and they need to rethink their customer service.

There’s plenty nearby, from grocery stores and different food chains to parks, libraries, and other things to do during a stay. The location was perfect. The hotel itself was nice, clean, and quiet. Parking can be hard to find, I guess because of the things I mentioned above. It’s a little pricey, but worth it.

The rooms were fine, though we didn’t spend much time in them. We were in town because my nephew graduated from boot camp, and the trip went well. What stood out was the staff, who were all great. My brother was able to switch from a king to a double bed, and whenever we needed coffee, they got right on it. Mrs Williams was the highlight for me. SHE IS YOUR SHINING STAR! Her personality was wonderful, and she seemed like a real go getter. Kindness is free, and we should spread it around.

Rick was a big help when my family and I struggled to book a room with a storm approaching. With everything else booked up, he patiently answered all my questions and found a reasonably priced room for my wife, kids, and me. Great service and a beautiful room. What a win!