Holiday Inn Express & Suites AUSTIN DOWNTOWN - UNIVERSITY by IHG

1. There was no airport shuttle service, even though it was advertised. When I arrived and called, they said there wasn't one. A taxi cost over $90, which was infuriating. 2. The hotel's location is close to the Texas State Capitol, but the area downstairs is truly awful. All the storefronts are boarded up, and there are homeless people on every street for several blocks around. When I first arrived, I honestly wondered if I'd landed in a slum; I didn't dare leave the hotel on the first night. 3. The hotel doesn't offer free parking; it's $45 a day. We rented a car and later realized that other places just a few miles away were much cheaper. It made us understand how wealthy this city is, but our first time at this hotel truly felt like a 'city of doom.' I've never left so many comments before. 4. The hotel parking lot uses a scan-and-pay system that's incredibly confusing and frustrating. We had a 9 AM flight and left at 6 AM, but spent over 20 minutes dealing with the parking, which was maddening. We frequently stay at hotels from this brand, but honestly, I'd say avoid this one if you can. Two stars are even too generous. To top it off, the hotel food is terrible, and there's nowhere to eat nearby, not to mention all the homeless people.

Really comfortable with a delicious breakfast. Facilities: Superb, absolutely excellent. Hygiene: Very clean and fantastic.