Element by Marriott Iowa City

The manager found me a room at the last minute, and the staff were friendly and efficient. Everything was immaculate and the rooms were very quiet. The towels and sheets didn't have that overwashed detergent smell, which matters for people with skin allergies, and the place didn't smell of cleaner either. There's a small kitchen with appliances, a walk-in shower, a sofa and little table, a desk area for work or cooking, and the bed. If I'm back in Iowa City, I'll definitely stay again.

After a 12-hour drive, I wanted a comfortable hotel, but my Marriott app booking was oversold and they sent me to an extended-stay hotel in the IHG chain. It was a cheaper hotel in a worse location, yet after taxes I paid more than the original price, and I had no status with that brand. I booked only an hour before arriving, and the hotel already knew it had no room, but nobody thought to contact me.

We drove several hours only to find out that the two rooms we had reserved and confirmed directly through the Marriott site were unavailable because the hotel was overbooked. The front desk guy seemed to know right away from my name that there was a problem. They should have called hours earlier. It was an awful experience, and the front desk interaction made it worse.

I was here for a biking event, and there was enough room for my bike without making the room feel cramped. It was spacious, clean, and comfortable, with nice spots to work, cook, or relax. Breakfast had plenty of choices and was great, and the staff were welcoming and courteous. The location is close to lots of places to visit. Parking is in the ramp next door, but they give you a free code to use. All in all, it was a great stay and I'd come back.