Motel 6 Corpus Christi, TX - East - North Padre Island

This used to be my dependable choice when traveling: comfortable, affordable, and familiar after several stays over the years. The latest visit was a letdown, though. The supposedly non-smoking room reeked of smoke, the AC barely cooled it, and the toilet wasn't working right. There was even a missing vent cover in the bathroom. The sheets were passable, but cleanliness and upkeep have slipped badly. It's disappointing to see a place I used to count on decline this much. I won't be back.

For $140 a night, this was ridiculous. The lobby's glass entrance door was smashed, yellow crime scene tape was around it, and bugs covered the whole entryway. I could feel things crawling on me while I was just trying to check in. Even by Motel 6 standards, the place was awful.

Nicole at the front desk was so patient while we sorted out rebooking. My mom is between places right now and had her ID stolen, so I've been helping with my name and card. I forgot to rebook, but Nicole understood and got us another booking at the same rate. Thanks, Nicole. You were a godsend.

It's a low-cost place, and the price is about what you'd expect for what you get. Still, the air in my room wasn't great, the blankets had holes, and I could hear everything from neighboring rooms. The crowd staying there seemed pretty rough and loud.