Hampton Inn Salem, VA

I left a pair of pants in the room and only noticed the next day. When I called, the hotel found them quickly and arranged to return them. Thanks, Sandra and Libby! I was on my way to Washington DC and had a great stay. I’ve been to lots of Hampton Inns, and this was probably the nicest. The decor was clean and modern, breakfast was excellent, and the staff were fantastic.

We were disappointed to find the pool out of order. We’d called before coming to check it was open, and we had the grandkids with us expecting to swim. I know things happen and it wasn’t something you could control, so we still rated the stay well. Maybe next time. We ate breakfast on four mornings. The pre-made omelets and sausage patties were amazing, while the pre-made scrambled eggs were watery and really bad. Everything else was great, with some breakfast mornings better than others.

The room was very clean, and this is a quiet hotel in a convenient spot right off I-81. Staff were cordial, and the grounds were well lit. Breakfast was free and buffet style, though the selection wasn’t sprawling. A few things in room 246 need attention. The heavy sliding bathroom door didn’t roll properly and nearly shut my wife in. The fridge is tucked low behind a cabinet door, which is hard for older guests to reach; the low microwave was awkward to use and slid backward when we pushed its buttons. Water kept running from the tub spout while the shower was on, and the showerhead couldn’t be adjusted, so the spray was too forceful. Most of the room had carpet, which I don’t consider sanitary these days. Modern laminate would be a big improvement. There was just one fabric-upholstered chair, also not sanitary enough in my view. Two faux leather chairs would have been better. Just trying to keep it real.

Parking is plentiful, with entrances on every side of the building, and two elevators make getting to the rooms quick. The rooms are nicely equipped, clean, and have queen beds and large bathrooms. The TV has good cable, and internet is fast, with Ethernet in the room. Staff were friendly and very helpful. Breakfast is free and has hot food as well as cereal. I’d easily recommend this hotel and give it a 10 for facilities in this class. Happy motoring!