The Flagler Inn

The owner or manager was one of the nicest people I’ve met checking into a hotel in a tourist area. It was our first time at a pet-friendly hotel, and he showed us where the dog walk was and how close it was to our room. He was pleasant and chatted as he checked me in, without acting like he was doing me a favor. Just an all-around decent guy. Everyone else we met on staff was pleasant and helpful, too. The location worked well, close to historic downtown and not far from I-95. We could get anywhere in 5-10 minutes. The bathroom had a nice walk-in shower, though the edges looked moldy or dirty. It wasn’t nice to see, but the shower pan was clean, so we still used it. We’d stay again if we’re back in St. Augustine. Thanks for making the visit a good one.

It’s a good spot away from downtown’s madness, and the price is cheap, so I guess you get what you paid for. The rooms are old, the online photos look like they’re from years ago, and the furniture is worn. My first room had a funky smell, and the sheets and towels were stained. The shower glass was dirty, and the fridge was cool but not really cold. There was no coffee pot in the room.

We were in town for a meeting at Florida Deaf and Blind school, and the location worked perfectly. The room itself was clean, but the service fell short. No one brought fresh towels, took out the trash, or cleaned the room, so I had to ask for towels and trash removal. Only then was I told service had to be requested 24 hours ahead, which nobody had mentioned. They also gave me extra hand towels but not enough washcloths.

The evening staff member working Christmas Eve and Christmas Day was the bright spot. She was sweet and did her best to help. The hotel itself made for a pretty bad stay, though. The place is old and could use updates inside and out. We had trouble pairing the TV and remotes, the bed made for a couple of uncomfortable nights, and the shower faucet was broken with hot water that was hard to adjust. Neither of us had a good experience, and we wouldn't stay here or recommend it again.