Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Decatur

It has a real hometown feel. The hotel is clean and safe, with a heated pool that's great for families, kids, or friends. It's in the middle of town, so local attractions are within walking distance, and the staff are friendly, courteous, and helpful.

After more than three decades of traveling and staying in hotels, I've never had a better experience than at the Fairfield Inn Decatur Alabama. Everyone was wonderful, from the breakfast attendant and maintenance staff to housekeeping and the front desk. Alyson the GM and the regional manager were amazing too. If you're in the area, I highly recommend giving the Fairfield Inn in Decatur a try.

The room itself was clean and clearly new, and the hotel is right in the heart of town. It was sparsely furnished, though, with little more than a dining chair, a couple of wall hooks, and a big empty corner. It almost seemed unfinished. I could also hear people walking around and shutting doors on the floor above. That didn't bother me much, but it may be useful to know if that kind of noise gets to you. What made the stay so frustrating was how my reservation was handled. I'd requested early check-in and arrived right on time, but the attendant didn't ask my name, offer to hold my bags, or help me. I had to carry them to work meetings all day, which was why I'd asked for early access. Only when I asked when I could return did she write down my details and say she'd call when the room was ready. She never called. I got back at 4:30 p.m. and found out they'd downgraded my booking without telling me. I'd reserved a room with a sitting area so I could take an important virtual meeting without a bed behind me. The attendant apologized and said she'd call the manager. The manager said there was a maintenance issue with my booked room and nothing they could do. She'd reassigned it without contacting me, leaving me to discover the change on arrival. They offered to comp the stay, since guests in the room type I'd booked had already arrived, but that would complicate my expenses and wouldn't solve the meeting problem. The manager's only suggestion was to call her the next day at checkout. I was one of the first arrivals, so the issue could have been addressed upfront if the first attendant had even checked. The dismissive service and lack of communication turned a preventable problem into a frustrating one. I'd have gladly given up the room and gone somewhere else, but by then I had no time. I rarely leave reviews, but this experience really disappointed me. The property is brand new and looks it, and I know Marriott can do better. I'm a long-time, loyal, frequent Marriott guest around the world, but I'll probably choose a different property next time so this doesn't happen again.

Barbara at the front desk was so sweet and genuine. She even showed me around the amenities after checking me in. The property is really clean and nice. Ten out of ten!