The Starfish

The beach is an easy walk away, which was a plus. The downsides were extra parking fees, noise and a bad smell from the neighbors, and a long breakfast line even though breakfast was included. Check-in was at a different location about four or five streets away, too. The woman overseeing breakfast didn’t smile and seemed to just watch everyone.

You’re just steps from the beach and boardwalk, and it was the best price around.

Maria, thank you for that lovely smile. We were in room 1801, which was spacious and beautiful, with a very comfortable king bed. The beach was about five minutes away, and the room came with Wi-Fi, a hair dryer, an iron, plus small amounts of soap, shampoo, and body lotion. The kitchenette made cooking pretty much impossible. There were no plates, glasses, or utensils, and the oven was in poor shape. The microwave was there, but the coffee maker had no filter. The laminate floor was damaged and the blind was broken. The little backyard felt neglected and boxed in between the buildings, and the BBQ had no gas canister. Housekeeping comes only every three days, and the office is in another building almost five blocks away. Breakfast was included, but you had to go to a building nearly five blocks away for it. The selection was limited: boiled eggs, toast, cereal, bagels, granola bars, very ripe bananas, and strong coffee. The orange juice was excellent, though. The woman keeping an eye on guests didn’t smile. For a few days, this is fine if you plan to eat at restaurants and just need somewhere to shower and sleep. For a stay longer than a week, it seems a lot less appealing.

Maria was very kind and gave me lovely service. It’s a beautiful place.