Residence Inn by Marriott Fort Lauderdale SW Miramar

The room odor was the worst part. I reported it at the desk, and they sprayed, but the smell from the previous guest came back soon after. The hall carpets looked extremely dirty and overdue for replacement, and housekeeping was noticeably lacking throughout my stay. Service felt impersonal. The hotel also needs painting, remodeling, general updating, and a thorough cleaning. We are Gold Mariott Bomboy members, but the only loyalty perk we received was two complimentary water bottles on the first day. When I asked at the desk, I was told it varies by hotel and is only offered on the first night here. At breakfast, I went around 9:30 a.m. on Sunday and found no butter and several other items missing. I didn't see staff restocking food or cleaning the area. The disposable utensils were so flimsy they broke easily while eating, which felt cheap and disappointing. There are some good points: the area is quiet but central, and the rooms are spacious with plenty of storage, including a small living-room closet. The kitchen has what you need for a quick meal. Still, unless you get a very good rate or need the extra room for children or a larger family, I'd avoid staying here. I'd put it closer to 2.5 stars.

The carpet was filthy. I had my shoes off for only five minutes, and the next day my feet were black after walking on it. We had two rooms, and the air conditioning was broken in the one my husband and I used. They gave us a fan, but the room stayed hot and muggy; we were moved to another room the following day, with no discount for the first one. Breakfast was supposed to run until 10, but they turned off the waffle mix at 9:40 and shut down the juice at 9:45 while people were still trying to eat. The staff member didn't seem to care, and when I told the front desk, she barely reacted. There was barely anything to do nearby.

I come here once a week for work. The front desk team is really nice and a pleasure to deal with, and the rooms are clean with full kitchens. If you're in the area, this is where I'd stay.

The suites are clean and roomy, with kitchens, and the staff are friendly. That makes the place a good fit for longer stays. Some people do find it a little dated, and breakfast choices can be limited.