Holiday Inn Express Venice by IHG

Audrey greeted us warmly at the front desk and was ready to answer any questions. Marie from food service made a tasty breakfast for everyone, and I hope she's recognized for all the hard work she puts into those delicious items. Our stay was comfortable and clean, and the staff were exceptional. We had a wonderful visit.

The rooms are spacious, but there was visible wear throughout, and we saw some mold in the bathrooms. The air conditioning also shuts off whenever you leave the room. Staff said the system can't be changed, which was inconvenient in the heat, since our room was quite hot each time we returned during our two-night stay. Breakfast was just okay. Maybe this place works for a one-night stop.

It's been weeks, and I still haven't received the promised proof for a $250 smoking fee, even though I don't smoke. I was also charged for an extra night and a $350 damage fee, but the manager refunded those two charges. Each time I call, the front desk says they've left a note for the manager, who hasn't called me back. I've contacted corporate for answers. It's frustrating to have money taken when I was only trying to get a good night's sleep.

The staff were wonderful and as helpful as they could be, and breakfast had a decent variety, was fresh, and the area was spotless. But I can't recommend this Holiday Inn Express, a chain I usually like and choose when traveling. Renovations were underway, and I couldn't tell whether the three rooms I used over two nights had been renovated. At least one thing didn't work in each room. The doors let hallway sounds through, and every shower floor had smears that looked like tile cement. The linens were fresh and clean, but dust mites in the carpet made me itch right away because I'm sensitive to them. Maybe the carpets are simply old, or perhaps the hotel doesn't deep clean. The third room smelled very musty, and the parking lot layout is a problem. There's more going on here than you can see at first.