Candlewood Suites I-26 at Northwoods Mall by IHG

The room was quiet, including the neighboring rooms, so it was easy to rest. The kitchen was well equipped for a longer stay, and the basic toiletries and hair dryer were useful. Still, the maintenance problems, lack of follow-through, and uneven service outweighed those positives. For $383.40 over three nights, we expected more from this Candlewood Suites. We stay at IHG properties often, especially Holiday Inn locations, and this was below the standard we associate with the brand. The lobby beverage payment machine was out of order, so guests had to buy things at the desk. There was no usual guest ice machine, and the ice maker in our freezer was broken. We reported it and were told maintenance might come that day or the next, but nobody showed. We turned it off because we worried the motor could overheat, yet the freezer still made loud, unpleasant noises off and on day and night. We expected a queen bed but got a full-size one. The shower curtain rod was twisted and broken, so keeping the curtain closed was difficult. The overnight desk employee was often on her phone when guests came up and continued personal conversations while they waited to be acknowledged. For fresh towels, we were told to bring the used ones down to the desk to exchange them. It was a hassle, though not a major issue, and not what we usually experience at IHG hotels. There was no breakfast. I may have missed that detail when booking, but we’re used to breakfast being available at many IHG properties, and for us it was a real downside.