Fairfax Inn

You can’t beat the location, right in downtown Fairfax. But the place feels old, and the bedding bothered me most. Without a bedspread, you have to sleep under a duvet cover that you know isn’t laundered between guests, and the same goes for all the pillow shams. That feels creepy in a hotel. The toilet paper roll was about three-quarters used too. I know replacing it is wasteful, but it’s awkward to sit down and find it nearly empty.

Fairfax is full of places to eat, and Good Earth Natural Foods is just down the street, so I didn’t mind that this Inn doesn’t provide breakfast. The location is the best part: it’s right in the business district near food, bars, music, the park, public transport, and a public car charger, but just off the main street so it gets quiet after the dining and entertainment spots close. It’s a great deal for pricey Marin County, run by lovely people, in my favorite city in Marin County to stay in when visiting. My room was clean and thoughtfully decorated, with a jacuzzi tub, which was a treat. I booked the cheapest room, so there was no mini-fridge, though that wasn’t a problem for me. The gas fireplace didn’t work. I suspect that might be because fixing it could require the Inn to replace it with electric, which is expensive under California rules, but you don’t really need a fireplace in Fairfax. You also have to arrive before 10pm or you won’t get your room.

Clean rooms, comfortable beds, safe parking, and linens I liked. The staff were very friendly, supportive, and understanding. The inn is centrally located for getting around town and makes a great base for mountain biking. It’s not the Ritz, but I’d book it again when I need to stay in the area. Thanks. Dave #ukdave

The room itself was very nice, but the listing and the owner’s handling of things left me uncomfortable. Hotels.com clearly said breakfast was included, yet at check-in I was told they don’t offer breakfast. I offered to pay for the one night and moved to a hotel with an accurate listing, but the owner has fought me on the refund even though the booking details I received were wrong. After my fiance and I settled in and ordered Thai food, the owner called to ask if the delivery person was a secret guest or had a secret cat. That felt pretty uncomfortable too. I checked in without any trouble. If inaccurate listing details and questions about visitors don’t bother you, the room is nice.