Best Western Inn Florence

Jean was so nice and helpful during our stay at Best Western. She showed us how to find our room and helped us at breakfast, always with a smile. We were already complicated guests when we arrived, so I really appreciated how kind she was.

We had a nice room and bed, and this was a good stopping point on our way south for vacation. The host at the desk was very pleasant, though she wasn’t clear about the pricing policy. I used rewards points for the stay, but she still tried to charge an extra $40. The outside lot was untidy and access from the main road was a little hidden because of the renovations. They’re making major changes, and we’ll be back.

The complimentary breakfast was the best part and would easily bring me back. There was bacon, sausage, scrambled and hard-boiled eggs, muffins, biscuits, cupcakes, cookies, cereal, toast, locally sourced yogurt if I remember right, fresh fruit, juices, regular and almond milk, plenty of coffee choices, and a waffle maker with a choice of batter. There were other options I’ve forgotten or didn’t get to try during my two days there. The room was clean, modern, quiet, and comfortable, with no sign of bugs. The bed and linens were great, and the TV was huge and up to date. There was a desk and chair, a comfy chair with a footrest, plus an ironing board, coffee maker, microwave, hair dryer, and fridge, all in nice shape. The bathroom was clean, with soft towels and washcloths. My only small complaints were that the fridge needed defrosting and was a bit loud, and housekeeping could’ve paid more attention behind furniture and in the nooks and crannies. For the price, it feels rather luxurious compared with other area hotels.

We’ve stayed at the Best Western Inn Florence with my brother on our way to Florida for years, but lately the place has felt disconnected and has lost some of its old charm. The hotel is renovating, and I hope the changes also bring back the personal hospitality that used to make us feel at home. My favorite manager is no longer there, and her warm presence used to make our visits special. Only a few familiar employees seem to remain, which added to that feeling. I look forward to seeing how the hotel changes, but for now it feels like it’s lost its spark.