Days Inn Joelton/Nashville

After years of staying here, this weekend was my last visit. The rates are lower now, but breakfast is going away and they're working on removing the coffee machines from the rooms. The original owners have sold it, and a lot is changing. I had to switch rooms because the toilet in my first one didn't work. People in the next room smoked outside, and when I stepped out, the smoke, including marijuana, came into my room. My minor grandchildren had to smell it.

The room was a smoking room and felt in line with what I paid, but the people are what made me want to return. Lisa helped me through issues on my first day with a smile, and Eleanor and Melissa were kind and thoughtful when I ran into trouble with a third-party booking source. I really appreciate all three of them. Their hospitality made the problems feel worth dealing with. This was the best hotel I’ve stayed at in years, and I’ll come back when I’m traveling through again. Thank you! ☺️

For a budget stay, the easy check-in and check-out and friendly service were a plus. The beds are comfortable, and staff provide plenty of towels and make the beds when you’re out. There’s a mini-fridge, microwave, TV, and alarm clock, though nothing is fancy. Bedside lamps help make up for the dim main lighting, and the free breakfast isn’t much to get excited about. The rooms are acceptable for the price, but the bathrooms look dated and weren’t quite clean. It’s a little out of the way, with just a convenience store nearby, so walking around isn’t really an option.

The price was reasonable at $60 with tax, and the man at the desk was friendly and seemed to do his best to help. But the rooms are outdated and low tech, and there was only one working ice machine. I had reserved a non-smoking king, but the king room I got was clearly smoky, even though it was basically clean. I asked to move because I can’t stand stale cigarette odor. The double room on the other side smelled better, but its carpet was thick with dirt and grime and the air was musty. It was also very hot. The AC took five hours to bring the temperature down to 74°. When I picked up the ice bucket, its inside had what I hope was dirt crusted on it.