Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Jacksonville

The hotel and rooms were super clean, the beds were comfortable, and the bathrooms and decor had been updated. It's also convenient to lots of places. We stayed this past weekend to visit family, and everyone on staff was so welcoming and friendly, from Jai at reception to the breakfast ladies and cleaners. Even the guy emptying the outside trash greeted us with a big, happy “Hello.” Whoever runs this hotel is doing a great job hiring, motivating, and leading the team. I don't think I've ever stayed at a friendlier hotel.

Restaurants and shops are right next to the hotel, which was handy. The rooms were clean, and breakfast had both hot and cold options. My one gripe is that, unlike most Marriott hotels, this one doesn't let you watch Netflix. Oh well, can't have everything.

I raised my rating because I thought my first reaction was a bit harsh. The room still had problems, but the hotel was clean and the staff were really pleasant and helpful. A few things in the room were broken, the lighting was dim, and the bed wasn't comfortable. I woke up with a sore back.

This was my fifth Marriott stay in five days, and the first one where I couldn't use my Marriott card from my digital wallet, even though I booked through the Marriott app and the card is in the Bonvoy app. No physical card meant no purchase. Why have the app and card if neither works for paying for a room? I also booked a top floor room, but the stairway door doesn't open from the outside. There was no luggage cart, though they did offer water. These are small things in the grand scheme, but come on. And there's no smart TV either.