Candlewood Suites Ft. Lauderdale Airport/Cruise by IHG

The room was comfortable and had the amenities I expect from an IHG property, though it did smell musty. We sprayed some Febreeze we’d bought at the Dollar Tree across the street. Check-in and checkout were quick, and all the staff were polite and accommodating. Genesis checked us in, greeted us whenever we passed through the lobby, and suggested nearby places to eat and shops for last-minute items, all within walking distance. We stayed before our cruise because Port Everglades was only 15-20 minutes away, and used our annual bonus night and points to book. There’s no complimentary breakfast here, unlike at other IHG properties. Shuttle service is available, but we had a rental car and didn’t use it. I’d recommend the hotel for its proximity to FLL Airport and Port Everglades.

There’s no pool or restaurant on site, but a small mall across the street has essentials for making a quick breakfast in your room. The location was convenient, and the airport shuttle was a nice bonus. They also offer a shuttle to the cruise port for a fee. Our room was clean, very comfortable, and bigger than I expected.

After our first family cruise, my family and I checked in for one night. In the morning, my room phone wouldn’t work when I tried calling room service, so I went down to the desk. The overnight staff member said the phones were working and called my room, but when I went back up it still didn’t work. He suggested it might be because he’d stepped away from the desk. I also needed towels, but he said none were available because housekeeping wasn’t in yet. Then he said he could find some if I brought down our used ones. I’d already gone between the room and front desk twice. A hotel should have towels stocked, and guests shouldn’t have to fetch their own. This was my only experience like this, and I wouldn’t recommend staying here.

I paid $63 total through Agoda, which made this a real bargain. The staff were very good, everything in the room worked, and the bed was magnificent. I only stayed one night in March, but the room was nicely sized and comfortable enough that I wished I’d booked more time. Great hotel overall, 8.3/10, and I’d definitely return.