Econo Lodge Meridian South

Don't let some of the negative reviews put you off. My room was clean and comfortable, and I didn't see any bugs. The only real downside was the pillows, which were flat as a pancake.

The front desk staff were accommodating, and the room looked and smelled clean. It was comfortable, a good value, and in a really convenient spot near downtown Meridian, fast food places, and pretty much everything. The shower was wonderful compared with a lot of motels. I saw no bugs at all, especially no bed bugs, and nothing in the negative reviews struck me as a big deal. I nearly skipped it because of those reviews, but I'll definitely stay here again when I'm back in the area. My one complaint is that the pillows were flat as a pancake, though I can live with that.

The staff were nice enough, but the place was bleak. Trucks were loud all night, and I could hear people outside and in other rooms. The doors don't close properly and barely lock, and the bed is threadbare. I'd guess it needed a full renovation about 50 years ago. I've stayed in non-tourist hotels in third world countries that were far more comfortable for about five dollars a night instead of seventy. I'm not sure the other hotels around here are any better, though. I guess it's Mississippi, what can you do?

There are plenty of restaurants and gas stations just a 3-5 minute drive away, and the rates are affordable. The property was clean and well lit at night, and the rooms were quiet and very clean. The staff were professional and courteous. Beds and pillows were comfortable, and the linens smelled fresh. My room had a refrigerator, microwave, decent-sized TV, desk, chair, and several lamps. The bathroom and shower were clean with good hot water, and the air conditioning was quiet and cold. A good option if you're in the area for a night or a few days.