Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Cookeville by IHG

The biggest downside for my mom and grandma was a broken ice machine on their floor. They stayed four days while visiting me, and of the two other hotels they've tried in the area, they liked this one best. There are only about four local hotels with indoor pools, and this is one of them. Their room was a nice size with a large bathroom and a view of trees. They couldn't hear the interstate, and the beds and pillows were comfortable. The clean pool felt a little cold at first, but they got used to it. It goes from 3 to 5 feet deep, and the towels provided were actually fluffy. They thought the continental breakfast was decent, with hot, good food, and that's what matters to them. The mini fridge freezes most things even on its lowest setting.

The only good thing I can say is that the TV had AC/Heat that worked, the shower had strong pressure, and the elevator was the fastest I can remember at this level of hotel. They also had handy flat-topped trash cans where you could set things while waiting for the elevator or getting ice. I stayed four nights the first week of December, and this was possibly my worst Fairfield experience. There was major construction that hadn't been disclosed when I booked, the gym couldn't be used for my entire stay, and the big light above the bathroom sink was out, so I couldn't see in the mirror. The bath drain was backed up and rusty, and breakfast had no fruit. Hotels should tell guests what's going on before they book, especially when amenities aren't available. They shouldn't let a property get this run down before remodeling. My rate should have been half of what I paid. I'm a frequent business traveler with lots of time in Marriott properties. Highly disappointing.

The room had the fridge I needed, and it was what I expected for the price. Breakfast was the usual kind, check-in was easy, and the staff were pleasant. No complaints.

We stayed one night and found the room clean and comfortable. Check-in was quick and friendly, and the hotel was easy to reach, with a few restaurants and a Starbucks nearby. Nice, clean place.