Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, New Orleans I-10 East, LA

The musty smell hit as soon as I entered the building, and the air felt damp and unhealthy. It made me feel physically sick. The rooms and hallways had a strong mold and mildew odor, and the property seemed poorly maintained and unclean. It didn’t feel safe or sanitary to me, and in my opinion it needs major renovation before anyone should stay there. This was very disappointing and honestly shocking, given rooms are still being rented in this condition. Families with children and anyone with allergies or breathing issues should consider somewhere else. I’d strongly advise anyone considering Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, New Orleans I-10 East, LA to think twice. This felt like a serious environmental problem, not a minor housekeeping matter.

The breakfast was the best part, with hot options like sausage, eggs, biscuits, and mini waffles. It reminded me of Embassy Suites, just without omelets. I appreciated having a fridge and microwave, and the room smelled nice when I arrived. The shower head was good, though water pooled at the bottom. The room was only so-so for what I paid. I got there around 11:30 a.m., earlier than expected, tired and hoping to check in. Even though checkout was at noon and the lot looked empty, they wouldn't give me a room before 1:30. Check-in wasn't until 3, but the lack of consideration still disappointed me. As a travel agent, I'd only recommend this place to clients who care about having breakfast included. Also, the only way into the hotel is through the Waffle House parking lot, which seemed really strange.

My main issue was a leak in the bathroom above the shower. The staff responded well and brought extra towels. Otherwise, the room was quiet and comfortable, and check-in was easy. The staff were helpful and even sent daily messages to make sure someone was available if I needed support. I saw concerns in other reviews about the area, but I didn't notice any crime or suspicious activity. It all felt calm and quiet, and breakfast had plenty of options.

The problems started after we finally got checked in. We'd booked a King suite weeks ahead for a few nights in Louisiana before our cruise, but after a six-hour drive we waited about an hour and a half while the crowded desk dealt with overbookings and angry guests. They initially said they had no room for us. After I explained how long ago I'd reserved, the clerk searched for another ten minutes and found one. Upstairs, our keys wouldn't work. The manager's card did, and she said she'd reprogram ours and send them up. The room wasn't the King suite I'd booked, but a H/C accessible room. It hadn't been cleaned, there seemed to be insects around the window, there was no phone, the TV didn't work, and the entry door was broken. We wanted a shower before going out to see the sights, but instead had to deal with all of that. The door couldn't be secured, at the end of a hallway with a broken elevator across from a stairwell. I felt unsafe and worried it could be a setup for human trafficking. I called Corporate several times, but was told they couldn't do anything while we were on-site. They later told me the location had canceled my reservation and would issue a refund. Ten days later, I still hadn't received it. When I called Corporate again, the only offer they made was a free night at another location. I won't stay at another Choice Hotel. The location at 5801 Read Blvd. should be closed for renovation and new staff. This was the worst hotel chain experience I've ever had. Keegan Michael Key should be ashamed to promote a place like this for families who want to feel safe.