Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portland Airport

The room had a faint cigarette smell, like you get in older hotels, but it didn’t linger. It was clean, the bed was very comfortable, and the heat and AC worked really well. Good price, too. The pool looked decent, but it wasn’t pool season, so I can’t say for sure. Having a microwave and mini fridge in the room was nice, something I haven’t seen at a Motel 6 in ages. The staff were friendly and attentive, and helped me out of a bind. There are good places to eat nearby, and a 7-Eleven within walking distance. The day manager recommended Cameo Cafe, and I agree with him, I had an amazing breakfast there.

Pretty standard two-star hotel, nothing especially good or very bad. The beds were very hard and comfortable. The hallways smelled strongly of weed. Parking was awkward to navigate, and it wasn’t clear where to park. Our TV didn’t work, and I had to call twice before someone came up to fix it.

The room was adequate for sleeping, but I didn’t like its layout. My sheets were torn and the walls were so thin I could hear everything. There were only two towels, two washcloths, no hand towels, no bathroom mat, and no Kleenex. You get what you pay for, I guess. When I booked, nobody told me about the $100 fee charged to my card up front. Having to wait four to five days to get it back wasn’t good.

This was excellent for the price, and I’ll book again next time. I got in at 1:30 a.m., but check-in was easy and the front desk staff were polite and helpful. The room was great, with a comfortable king bed, good AC, a TV that seemed almost new, hot showers, and blackout curtains. It was quiet, and breakfast was small, but the coffee was good. 7-Eleven and Pizza Hut are right next door, and The Grotto is directly across the street. It’s 10 minutes from the airport and 15 minutes from downtown or Vancouver, Washington.