Tree Top Inn Florence

At $55 a night, it was a comfortable room, even though it looked dated and could use a face-lift. I've paid twice as much at chain hotels and felt dirty just walking in. I saw the bed bug reviews and checked for myself. The sheets were clean, though the mattresses probably ought to be replaced.

The room and sheets were clean, and the person at the desk was friendly. It's not a top-end hotel, but for the price it works for a night's rest. The strong stale cigarette smell in the room was my one real complaint.

We ended up here while working in town after hurricane Matthew because every other place was full. The first room smelled like cat pee and mold, so we told the front desk and were moved. About 20 minutes later, they put another group in that same room. The replacement room was disgusting and clearly hadn't been cleaned properly. It had what looked like years of filth, and the odor clung to our clothes. I'd tell people to drive a few more miles, even if this seems like the only option, so their night isn't ruined.

There was mold in the room I stayed in. When I left, no one was around to return my ID, so I waited about an hour and eventually figured I'd have to get a new license at home. On the drive back, I called the front desk to ask if someone could mail it. The woman was so rude that I decided it was pointless to keep talking to her. That night at this ready hotel is costing me another $55. I wouldn't recommend it.