Hampton Inn & Suites Los Angeles Burbank Airport

We picked this place for its proximity to Universal Studios and found it better than average for the price. The rate felt fair for the location and room size. We had two queens and a pullout bed, and I'd stay again. It could use a deep clean and some updates, but nothing major bothered us. The room was clean and roomy, though the furniture and fixtures needed updating. Bathroom was fine, beds were okay, but the pillows were much too soft for me. I needed three just to raise my head. You could hear kids running on floors above if you were on a lower level, plus some traffic noise outside, though it wasn't a big deal for us. Breakfast was the usual free spread, eggs, potatoes, muffins, waffles, and so on. Valet parking was required and cost extra, which I didn't like, but that seems normal for the area. Free cookies and milk each night were a nice touch, along with lobby coffee and a free morning paper.

The room was in good shape with only a little wear. It didn't smell musty, mildewy, or like pot, which seems pretty standard in California. Priceline's description didn't say there was no self-parking on site. The only option was valet, at $35 a night, using the area that looks like on-site parking. That's my deduction for the service and location. My other complaints are with Priceline's room ads and holds, and aren't part of my hotel rating.

The room had stains on the walls, peeling paint, and damaged furniture. The mattresses felt old and so soft they nearly swallowed you. The tub made an awful sound when draining. A board held up the AC, partly hidden under carpet, with tack nails sticking out like a little bed of nails. Parking is misleading. There's a lot on the property, but a separate company runs it, so you have to pay again. They only offer street parking across the road, which is busy and on a curve. Breakfast was cafeteria food, much like other hotels. The eggs were watery, probably powdered, like scrambled soup. The pastries seemed to be left out each day and only replaced as people ate them, and the bread was stale beyond saving in the toaster. You'd be better off at a motel. Avoid this place.

We were in the LA area for five days and four nights over New Year, visiting from Texas. We've stayed at Hampton Inn and Suites properties across 21 states over the years, and this one was the best by far. It was immaculate and the service was phenomenal. Our room was cleaned every day, and everyone we met, from the front desk and housekeeping to valet, was friendly, kind, helpful, and professional. Thanks to the whole team for making the trip memorable.