in the last week
I've stayed at Holiday Inn Express properties many times over the years, and this stay was the worst experience I've had with this brand, bar none. Let's start with the room. We booked based on the listing stating the room sleeps 6. What we got was a pullout couch with a twin mattress. A twin. For a room that supposedly accommodates six people. I don't know how Holiday Inn's math works, but it doesn't work for families. And that twin pullout? You could feel the springs through the mattress with the lightest touch. I have photos. Both queen headboards were in embarrassing condition, with large chunks of faux leather peeling off all over them. Again, I have photos. This is not normal wear and tear. This is a room that has not been maintained and should not be rented to paying guests. But the real low point was one particular staff member. I don't use the word "awful" lightly. This person was rude, dismissive, and completely indifferent to our concerns. No attempt to help, no apology, no accountability. It was stunning. I've given Holiday Inn the benefit of the doubt for years. Not anymore. Save yourself the frustration and book somewhere that actually delivers what it promises.