Howard Johnson by Wyndham New Braunfels

The room was quiet and peaceful, and housekeeping returned it refreshed each day. It was comfortable and had what you’d need for a longer stay. The pool was refreshing on a hot Texas afternoon, and breakfast was included with a nice seating area. Staff were friendly, helpful, and easy to reach, greeting us daily with smiles. The location is central for New Braunfels and nearby areas, with venues and restaurants usually ten minutes away or less. If you need a reasonably priced hotel here, I highly recommend thisHoward Johnson.

At 8, I went downstairs expecting the included breakfast, but there was only cereal, yogurt, butter, and cream cheese spread. I figured they might be running late, but when I returned at 9 there was still nothing. The attendant first said she had decided not to cook because there weren’t many guests. When I pointed out the website didn’t say breakfast depended on guest numbers, she changed her story and said breakfast ended then, though it was already 9. I asked how it could end when it had never been served. The online photos are very misleading: this is a very old hotel, though it was about as clean as could be expected for its age. The site said breakfast was included, and that was a lie. 10/10 do NOT recommend.

I was told I couldn’t check in as early as I needed, so before cancelling I called and spoke with a woman who said that while the facility couldn’t issue a refund itself, Expedia would refund me if I contacted them. I cancelled, but when Expedia reached the facility, they told them not to refund me. I went straight to ask for a manager. A different woman told me there was no one higher up, no HR, and no Corporate, just her, and claimed she owned the building. Meanwhile, the third party, Expedia, was on the line telling me they’d spoken to the site manager and that it was a man. Too many games, and the staff were very childish. I’d also seen reviews mentioning bed bugs before I booked, unfortunately.

The room was cozy enough for a quick stop, and using everything was straightforward. I got in late after a long drive, so it was a relief that the front desk staff were still friendly and accommodating.