DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Airport

The beds were comfortable, and check-in and the staff were good. We booked at the last minute, though, and the room was a different story. A strong chemical smell hit us as soon as we walked in. It seemed like they were trying to cover up a moldy, mildewy smell. Paint was peeling in the shower, revealing what looked like black mold, and the vent above it was full of mold. The humidity was uncomfortable, and we couldn't get the room below 70. This might be convenient if you're using the airport, but we didn't need that. For more than $300 a night, I expected more. Thankfully it was just one night. If we'd been staying longer, we would have left.

They charge Hilton prices but make you pay separately for parking, Wi-Fi and breakfast. The place feels like a motel dressed up in a Hilton name, with carpets, doors and walls that may not have been updated in 20-30 years. There's a strong stench as soon as you walk into the room, and staff already know about it but haven't acted. The HVAC didn't work. It took a maintenance man to get hot water through the right pipes, and he seemed to know exactly what was wrong and how to fix it, so it looks like a common issue. Water in the sink and tub drains slowly too, which is gross when you're standing in it. I won't stay at this property again, and I don't think I can trust Hilton properties after this.

Ms. Ami at the front desk was amazing. I started my work trip in one room, began feeling under the weather, and eventually asked to move. I don't usually complain, but she clearly cares about guests and wanted me to have a pleasant stay. Mr. Bert at the coffee bar and the restaurant staff were also great. The food and service there were good, with no complaints. The rooms need upgrades and more attention to cleaning. Paint was peeling from the bathroom ceiling, possibly because there were no exhaust fans or ventilation. Hall carpets could use deep steam cleaning or replacement, and my comforter had stains before I arrived and wasn't changed during my two-week stay. Some rooms smelled musty, some vents had mold, and one room had cockroaches. Everyone in my party, ten people across seven rooms, ended up with sore throats, runny noses, coughs with phlegm and sneezing. We felt better after being away for work, but mornings were rough. If you have health issues like asthma, I'd probably choose somewhere else. Breakfast cost extra, which surprised me because I assumed it came with a Double Tree stay like at most other Hilton hotels. There was a $22 buffet or an à la carte menu. I ordered from the menu for all three breakfasts and found it cheaper for similar items. The rooms had refrigerators but no microwaves. The gym had enough equipment for an okay workout. The laundry room was small, with just two washers and two dryers, at $3 to wash and $3 to dry. That was fine since it seemed only my work group used it. There was also a small coffee shop downstairs by the lobby. Overall, it was a decent stay thanks to the staff, but I'm unsure about returning because of the rooms.

The front desk manager was great. I forget her name, but she's a young African American lady who explained the hotel well. I told her I was pleased that this place met the Hilton Standard, unlike the Double Tree Hotel on Riverside. The location was very clean and welcoming, and the rooms were perfect. I came to swim, so I was disappointed the salt water pool was cold. Dinner was okay and the food was good, but the restaurant was a little dirty. The server brought me a dirty water glass repeatedly, so I didn't drink from it. The F&B Manager/Supervisor needs to teach the staff how to polish cups and silverware.