Holiday Inn Houston Downtown by IHG

I used to avoid Holiday Inn after a bad experience at one in Dubai 15 years ago, and hadn't stayed at the brand on any business trip since. I was in the USA for business this time and needed downtown Houston for meetings. With no hotels available from February 9-15, Holiday Inn was my only option, and I wasn't happy about that at first. I'm glad I gave it a chance. The room was spacious, comfortable, and had everything I needed. The staff were welcoming, and the duty manager especially impressed me. My flight was late at night, so I asked for a late checkout. The front desk could extend it by only three hours, but I needed six, so I booked an extra night. At checkout, the manager told me they wouldn't charge for that extra night because I was a member, and said it was a gift. I really appreciate the service and experience.

The garage signage was a bit confusing, so parking could be improved. Otherwise, getting around Downtown Houston was convenient, and the shuttle made it easier still. The rooms were well maintained, housekeeping did a great job, and staff were courteous and went out of their way to help.

For what this place costs and where it's located, I expected better. As a Platinum Member, I wasn't greeted or offered a choice of reward. They said complimentary water was in my room, but I don't drink that type of water, which is why I always choose points instead. The bathroom was very small with no counter space. There were water spots and hair in the sink, and the shower wasn't clean enough. The furniture and curtains looked very dated. The parking keys didn't work, and the garage was so small it felt unsafe. I didn't see any security cameras. Given the Holiday Inn brand and this location's price, the property quality was disappointing. I won't stay here again.

I could have overlooked the unfinished bathroom, drab decor, and only one working elevator. The bed was comfortable enough, and I spent just one night here during a Houston layover. But loud banging woke me just before 8 a.m. on Sunday. I called the front desk, and they said renovations were underway. I understand hotels need work sometimes, but there seemed to be plenty of ways to limit the impact on guests. I wasn't impressed.