Holiday Inn St. Petersburg N- Clearwater By Ihg

This hotel stands out for its exceptional staff and service, consistently praised for their friendliness, helpfulness, and dedication, often going above and beyond to assist guests. Its primary appeal lies in its convenient proximity to the airport, making it an ideal choice for transient travelers and those with early flights. The hotel also caters well to pet owners, offering a welcoming environment for furry companions, though a significant fee applies. While many appreciate the comfortable beds and the presence of a pool and hot tub, the property's overall condition is frequently described as dated and undergoing renovations, leading to mixed experiences regarding cleanliness and amenities. This makes it a suitable option for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize service and location over modern facilities. To ensure a smoother stay, guests are advised to confirm the availability of the airport shuttle service in advance and to inquire about room locations away from potential noise sources like the pool or main hallways.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently comment on the hotel's amenities, though feedback is mixed. The outdoor pool is available for use, with some finding it clean, while others note it is not heated. The hot tub is a popular feature, but many guests report it being out of service or experiencing issues during their stay. A fitness center is present and generally well-regarded for its equipment, though some guests noted a lack of towels. A significant recurring issue is the hotel's elevators, with multiple reviews indicating that only one is typically operational, leading to considerable wait times and inconvenience for guests. Wi-Fi connectivity is a point of frustration for some, particularly business travelers, who found it unreliable. Additionally, the hotel offers laundry facilities, though these are limited, often resulting in long waiting periods for guests. The property is also frequently undergoing maintenance or renovations, which can impact the availability and condition of certain areas.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room comfort is generally positive, with many guests praising the comfortable beds and linens for a restful sleep, though some found mattresses too soft or firm. However, cleanliness and the overall room condition receive highly mixed, often negative, reviews. Many guests reported rooms being dated, tired, or in need of a refresh, with issues like stained carpets and furniture. Significant concerns were raised about bathroom cleanliness, including reports of filthy showers, dirty sinks, mold on ceilings, and unpleasant odors such as raw sewage or mildew. Some reviews also noted stained sheets, unreplaced towels, and even the presence of insects like roaches or ants. Air conditioning units are frequently described as noisy or ineffective, and water pressure in showers can be low, with occasional reports of no hot water. Noise levels from neighboring rooms, hallways, and particularly from nearby planes are also a common complaint, impacting the overall tranquility of the stay.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers breakfast options, though it is not complimentary and often described as expensive. Guests note that breakfast is a sit-down service rather than a buffet, with feedback on food quality being mixed, ranging from good to disappointing. A common issue highlighted is the slow service during breakfast, attributed to insufficient staffing levels, which can lead to inconvenienced guests. The on-site restaurant and bar, often referred to as the Aviation Tavern, generally receives positive comments for its food quality, with specific dishes like burgers and sirloin being praised. However, service at the bar can also be slow or inattentive due to understaffing. While some guests appreciate the convenience of having an on-site dining option, the menu is sometimes described as limited. Coffee is available and generally well-received, but its availability throughout the day is inconsistent.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage due to its extreme proximity to the airport, making it highly convenient for travelers with early flights or layovers. This closeness, however, often results in noticeable plane noise, particularly during takeoffs, though some guests report minimal disturbance inside their rooms. A significant point of contention is the advertised airport shuttle service, which many guests found unreliable or unavailable, leading to frustration and unexpected costs for alternative transportation like Uber or taxis. Despite these shuttle issues, the hotel's central position provides easy access to various local attractions, competition venues, and dining options, including a steak restaurant within walking distance. Parking is available on-site, with some guests finding it a reasonable option for park-and-fly arrangements. However, aspects of the surrounding area and the hotel's exterior lighting are occasionally described as dim or contributing to a sense of unease.

Staff & Service
Guests consistently highlight the hotel's staff as its strongest asset, frequently describing them as exceptionally friendly, helpful, and accommodating. Many reviews praise the team for going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, creating a welcoming atmosphere from arrival to departure. The check-in process is generally reported as quick and seamless, with staff often able to facilitate early arrivals. While the overall sentiment towards service is highly positive, feedback on housekeeping is mixed; some guests noted inconsistent room servicing, including unmade beds or unreplaced towels during multi-night stays, while others experienced daily maid service. The front desk staff receives particular commendation for their attentiveness and willingness to assist with various requests. Despite occasional issues with specific services like the shuttle or certain management decisions, the dedication and positive demeanor of the hotel's employees are a recurring theme.

Additional Information
The hotel operates with a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by many guests traveling with animals, though a significant and sometimes unexpected pet fee is applied. Guests should be aware that the property is frequently undergoing ongoing renovations and maintenance, which can result in areas with missing carpeting, construction noise, and a general dated appearance. This ongoing work is often cited as a reason for various issues encountered during stays. Another recurring concern involves security deposits, with several guests reporting difficulties or delays in receiving refunds after checkout. While the hotel aims to accommodate all guests, some reviews mention issues with unauthorized smoking or strong odors in rooms. The overall impression for many is that the hotel is an older property in need of a comprehensive refresh, despite efforts to update certain areas. Guests also noted that the hotel's security measures could be improved, with some feeling uneasy due to dim lighting in parking areas and hallways.