La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Miami Cutler Bay

My son ran around barefoot and his feet came away covered in dirt. The tile was filthy, and the carpet was damp and dirty too. There was a stale, musty smell mixed with cigarette smoke, even though we were in a non-smoking room. The sink barely drained, and everything felt old and shabby. It was a really unpleasant stay, and I wouldn't recommend this place.

The guard was probably the best part of the stay. He was always around and alert, and I appreciated that the hotel and its manager take security seriously, especially in this neighborhood. The regular service was fine, though the staff seemed underpaid and worn down by difficult guests. Finding the entrance took a moment. It's marked, but tucked between a gas station and another motel, and I first thought it was a back alley. The lot is often full after 3pm, so parking can be tough. In the room, the floor and table by the TV had crumbs and dirt marks. The beds were hard and squeaky, and noise from people talking and running around outside carried on all night. I couldn't find an ice machine. There was a working TV with basic channels, plus a microwave, mini fridge, and air-conditioning.

I was glad I went ahead and booked after reading the reviews. The staff were friendly, and the place was clean with no bad odors. I didn't have breakfast or use the pool, but the pool looked crystal clear and smelled great around it. Getting a hotel under $100 in South Miami is a great deal, and I had a good experience.

The check-in guy was really nice, but I don't think we'll come back. Compared with other Laquintas I've stayed at, this one was disappointing. I paid less at the Laquinta in Ocala and Orlando, and both were much nicer. Since there are only two hotels in this area, that's unfortunate. The room smelled strongly of smoke, and the carpet and furniture didn't look clean. At least the bed was okay and the sheets seemed clean. The bathroom was clean too, though very old and a little stained. The AC worked, thankfully, but didn't do much for the smell. Breakfast was basically waffles, toast, or cereal, and the tiny area got crowded fast. At the desk, having to stand behind plexiglass with security cameras in view didn't make me feel safe. The sign said a room key was needed to enter after 10pm, yet the door opened without one at 1am.