Motel 6 San Diego, CA - Downtown

The staff were friendly, and the location downtown is perfect, with free parking onsite. The rooms really need to be made over, though. Renovating them could make this place breathtaking. And be sure to try the bold, tasty coffee David makes.

I got in before check-in and asked if I could leave my luggage somewhere while I walked around. They kept my coat and carry-on in a room by the office, and didn’t rush me. After a flight and a lot of walking, that was a big help. When the room was ready, I did have to wait a bit for the cleaning team to come fix some minor things, but customer service handled it courteously and quickly. I came away with a great impression of them, even with old carpets in the hallway and other signs of the rooms’ condition. David at the front desk was especially nice. When I asked about rates, everyone was helpful, and I could see David’s awareness, courtesy, and humanity in the way he handled things. The staff I encountered were all very nice. It’s not a modern hotel with all the bells and whistles, but it’s convenient to downtown, and there’s a good taco stand within a manageable walk. The view of the freeway overpass and parking lot is very scenic! On a budget, two or three nights at Motel 6 can work where another option might only get you one night. My room was available and affordable without a reservation, and as a traveler I know each stay can be different. Sometimes it’s busier and little touch-ups get missed. What matters to me is having a clean room and bathroom and good service, and I was lucky to have all three. The surrounding blocks can vary, and you’ll see all kinds of people, travelers, locals, or others just passing through. Guests can use Lyft or take another route if they choose to walk. Hotels differ from one location to another, whether they’re two star or five star, so it’s useful to research or get to know the area. I want to give Motel 6 Downtown San Diego, David, and the front desk staff good recognition.

The room wasn’t ready when I arrived about an hour early, which I expected, but it was still unavailable after the 3:00 p.m. check-in time. I’d booked and paid ahead, and the front desk didn’t offer another room or explain any options. I was willing to pay extra if needed. There was also an unexpected $20 per night parking charge. I needed Wi-Fi for work, but they didn’t give access at check-in, so I had to go back and ask. By 10:50 the next morning, we were already being prompted to leave. The delay and lack of communication made me late to my event, which was very inconvenient. Worse, the room was dirty, with visibly grimy walls and hairs on the sink and beside the toilet. That was completely unacceptable. I’ve never had such poor conditions at a Motel 6. The dirty room, delays, poor communication, extra charges, and unprofessional service made for a very disappointing stay.

Management here has improved over the past year. I’ve always had good experiences with David, the front office manager. He goes out of his way when he can to keep everyone happy and safe. There have been some issues with front desk agents in the past, but David makes up for the areas where his team falls short. Thanks to David and Motel 6 for making each stay comfortable and safe.