Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Saginaw, MI

The woman who checked us out was very sweet, and she wasn't the same person who made the mistake. During our stay, the front desk lady gave a man a key to our room while I was inside with my three young kids. Our dog was in the room too, and would have bitten him if it hadn't been kenneled. I called the desk, and she apologized, but I left that night and asked for even a partial refund. They assured me I'd get one, but it's been 17 days and I haven't heard back or seen any refund. If you don't want a stranger walking into your room while you and your kids are watching TV and eating breakfast, don't stay here.

I left as soon as I entered because my family and I didn't feel safe. A few other families seemed to be leaving too. People were drinking and playing loud music in the lobby, making comments, and the hotel didn't seem to care. Inside, the smell of weed and drugs was so strong I could hardly breathe. Everything seemed broken, and I worried about a break-in. If you're traveling with family or concerned about safety, don't stay here. The manager was the worst part. She was rude, wouldn't listen to me, and wouldn't cancel my reservation. This is a one-star place, not a hotel. I think you'd regret staying here; you'd be better off in your car or at a rest area.

I waited 15 minutes just to check in. I'd booked and paid on their site, and even asked before confirming whether there was a security deposit. They said no, but when I arrived they told me there was one. The room was easily the worst I've stayed in, especially for $113 for one night. There was bacon under the table, black glob-like stains on the floor, dents and damage on the walls, blood on the bathroom door, and a badly ripped chair. The shower was so weak I could pee harder than it. There was also mold in the shower.

The staff were friendly and professional, and housekeeping was offered and seemed to take less than 10 minutes. The hotel also has a smoking area by the front of the building, and a deal for Hungry Howie's on the room keys that was worth waiting for. The location is convenient, less than a mile from a shopping center with lots of choices, from restaurants to sporting goods. Four stars is generous, though I can see the potential for this to be a five-star hotel. It has a good bargain price, but an obvious cheap feel. My room looked outdated, the phone listed the wrong room number, and the chair had seen better days. There were scratched patches of paint and a lingering smell. Apart from those issues, it felt a bit like staying in a retirement home.