Quality Inn Mount Vernon, IL

The room itself was nice enough and clean, and both Sam and the woman at the front desk were nice. But I didn't enjoy the kiosk check-in. It was loud and a little confusing, and the front desk person could have handled it. More and more, we replace in-person interaction with a box. Even when there's a real person on the other end, it makes you feel like a consumer instead of a person. That doesn't feel like hospitality. The kiosk is what I don't like.

I arrived around 2 a.m. and was first given room 234, which was in really rough shape. The bathroom was clean, but the carpet was dirty and there was a big hole in the wall under the air conditioner. Sam at the electronic service desk was very polite and moved me to another room right away. The second room was better, though I had to unplug the fridge because it was kind of noisy.

I arrived late at night to find a messy computer and Webcam kiosk in front of the desk. The lobby was dirty and reeked of pot. They quoted me a few dollars less than the much nicer hotels nearby after saying, "I will work to get you the best price," then offered a few dollars less as I was walking out. I don't want to support a business that goes to such lengths to avoid hiring a local worker for something as basic as hospitality. I'd rather my money go to my neighbors. And don't tell me you're working on the best price, then offer $10 as I leave. That means I wasn't given the best price. The nearby hotels just tell you the price when you walk in.

The price was great value, and I got a senior discount. Check-in was easy, and I didn't need to use the kiosk. The staff were good, the place was clean, and the bed was comfortable. Breakfast was standard and fresh, and the eggs were great. I was surprised by how good the stay was.