Best Western Tampa

This hotel is frequently chosen for its convenient proximity to Raymond James Stadium and Tampa International Airport, making it a practical choice for event-goers and transit travelers seeking easy access to key city hubs. While guest experiences vary, many appreciate the hotel's efforts to provide a comfortable stay, often highlighting the friendly demeanor of the staff. It can be a suitable option for budget-conscious travelers and families looking for basic accommodations. To ensure a smoother experience, guests are advised to thoroughly inspect their room upon arrival for any maintenance issues and to confirm the functionality of all in-room amenities.

Facilities & Amenities
Most guests appreciate the availability of free Wi-Fi and ample parking, though some note that the parking lot can be dimly lit or prone to flooding during heavy rain. The hotel offers a fitness center, although some guests found its equipment limited or in need of repair. A pool is also on-site, with some enjoying its accessibility, while others mentioned it can be unheated and therefore too cold for use. Recurring issues include elevators being out of service, noisy, or having dirty floors, which can be inconvenient for guests with luggage. Many guests expressed frustration over the absence of microwaves in rooms, though some were able to request one or use a communal option. Additionally, some reviews highlighted a complete lack of heating in rooms, causing discomfort during cooler periods. The property is generally described as old and in need of refurbishment, with worn carpets and outdated furniture frequently noted.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is mixed. While some guests reported finding their rooms spotlessly clean with comfortable beds, a significant number encountered issues. A major and frequent complaint is the presence of cockroaches in both rooms and bathrooms. Many reviews mention dirty or stained carpets, a pervasive musty smell, and visible mold on walls, ceilings, or windows. Some bathrooms are noted for flooding during showers, clogged drains, or being small and outdated. Other concerns include noisy air conditioning units, stained sheets, and a lack of basic amenities like shampoo. Some guests also reported thin walls, leading to noise from neighboring rooms or hallways, which impacted their ability to rest peacefully.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast receives varied feedback from guests. Many consider it to be good, praising its variety which often includes waffles, eggs, bacon, cereal, and fresh fruit. The availability of 24/7 coffee and water in the lobby is also a valued amenity. However, some guests found the breakfast to be disappointing, describing the hot food as cold or uncooked, and the options as limited. There were also comments about watery coffee and juice, and the use of paper plates and cutlery. The breakfast area itself is noted by some as being small, which can lead to limited seating, especially during peak hours.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, particularly its close proximity to Tampa International Airport, Raymond James Stadium, and the cruise terminal, making it highly convenient for transit travelers and event-goers. Guests also appreciate being within walking distance of various restaurants and shopping options, including a grocery store. While parking is generally available and ample, some guests noted the lot can be dark or prone to flooding. Some found the hotel's immediate surroundings to be less desirable or the turn into the parking lot difficult, and a few mentioned it being further from downtown attractions than anticipated.

Staff & Service
Many guests consistently praise the friendly staff for their helpfulness, attentiveness, and professionalism, often highlighting a quick check-in and check-out process. Staff members are noted for being accommodating, especially during challenging situations like hurricane evacuations. However, a significant number of reviews report extremely negative experiences with certain individuals, citing rude or unprofessional behavior, unresponsiveness to serious issues like pest infestations or maintenance problems, and even threats of eviction. Some guests also experienced staff being preoccupied with personal devices or a perceived language barrier, which hindered effective communication.

Additional Information
Several recurring issues impact the overall guest experience. A frequent and significant concern is the hotel's handling of refunds, with many guests reporting difficulties or outright refusals, even in cases of double billing or early departure due to emergencies like hurricanes. Another common frustration is room key cards frequently malfunctioning, requiring multiple trips to the front desk for re-activation. Some guests also raised security concerns, noting side exit doors left open or feeling unsafe due to the surrounding area or suspicious activity in the parking lot, where some reported car damage. During hurricane events, while staff were generally helpful, some guests noted a lack of preparedness regarding basic amenities like breakfast items.