Houston Marriott North

The room smelled strongly of mold and felt outdated. I started coughing shortly after I walked in. Although I'd noted three guests on the reservation, the sofa bed wasn't made up and had no sheets, comforter, or pillows. When I called, the front desk said no one could bring bedding and that I had to collect it myself. All I got was a thin blanket, without a comforter, so I slept poorly. Check-in was unpleasant too. The agent didn't look up or smile, spoke quickly and unclearly, and seemed annoyed through the whole interaction. I'm also still trying to resolve a separate Marriott issue: a SpringHill Suites booking was cancelled within the refund period, but I haven't received the refund despite following up several times. Between that and the room and service here, this was far below the standard I expect from a Marriott property. The service and quality seem to have declined noticeably, and I'd suggest reconsidering a Marriott booking.

The hotel itself felt safe, with a very visible security presence, friendly staff, comfortable rooms, great showers, and a well-stocked bar with welcoming staff. The food was pretty typical for a Marriot location. I had a good stay once inside, but the location is terrible. It's in what several Uber drivers, coworkers, and friends warned me was a very dangerous part of Houston. Getting a rideshare was difficult, and I was told not to go beyond the hotel or out after dark. Walking anywhere didn't feel like an option.

I flew in for a very short visit to see my daughter graduate as a United Airlines flight attendant. Juan Rios and Maribel were a pleasure to meet both mornings, always cheerful and very attentive. Ruby was fantastic when we spent the evening at the bar. Miranda and Cyann at the front desk were pleasant and helped me with the things I'd forgotten. Miranda was the happiest front desk attendant I've ever encountered.

The lounge was a real plus for a business trip, with snacks, drinks, coffee, and evening food service. The food there was good, and the M Club breakfast was fine, with a complimentary omelette made to order. Alcohol in the lounge costs extra. The bar just outside it has reasonably priced dinner options that you can eat there or take back to your room, and the staff were friendly. Rooms were clean and the WiFi was acceptable, though there's no wired internet. It's convenient for the airport and business areas, but the neighborhood doesn't feel safe and isn't walkable. I wouldn't leave the hotel on foot to go for a walk, get food, or for any other reason. It has what a business traveler needs apart from a location you can walk around.