Hotel Monarchy & Suites

I spent the rest of the night checking for more roaches and couldn’t sleep comfortably. I wouldn’t recommend this property to anyone. The check-in itself was smooth, professional, and efficient despite the late hour, and the front desk staff were friendly. Its location is convenient for airport access, and the rate was reasonable for the area, but the cockroaches made the stay impossible to overlook. I was staying one night during a layover at the Ramada near George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). I woke in the middle of the night to several roaches on the floor and nightstand, with tiny baby roaches scattered around the room too. The infestation was unmistakable and deeply disturbing. The room looked clean at first glance, but the roaches and their offspring suggest serious maintenance and pest control problems. For a hotel near a major airport that depends on travelers, that level of infestation is unacceptable. Save yourself the stress and look for better options near IAH.

The ladies at the front desk were attentive and accommodating when I told them about the strong gasoline smell near the ice machine. The hotel is dated and could use updates, but the price was good for the area. The room was mostly clean, though someone had left two dried out contact lenses on the nightstand, so I’m guessing housekeeping didn’t clean it. There was an unsettling odor in the room, though it smelled better than the hallway or elevator. The elevator smelled like animal feces. The dining room was comfortable and the food came to the table hot, but the server/bartender could have been more patient. I tipped above 15% because I used to be a server myself, even though the service wasn’t worth 15%. Without spending over $100 for one night, this may be the best you can get in the area. Some air fresheners and a good cleaning crew would help a lot.

I’m a simple person and was pleased with the stay. The hotel is convenient, just down the street from IAH airport, and near restaurants and stores. Staff were friendly and attentive, and check-in and checkout were easy. The hot breakfast was delicious, but it costs extra, about $7.99 per person. Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and a non-slip shower mat were supplied in the shower.

The shuttle is a really good deal, and I’d stay here again. It’s an older hotel, but the bedding and towels were clean, and I didn’t notice any odor. The water could’ve been hotter and the pressure was a bit weak, though it was usable. I did find a small odd stain or bit of liquid on the floor. That was my only complaint.