Travelodge by Wyndham Thunder Bay

This hotel is frequently noted for its pet-friendly policy and the generally friendly staff, which stand out as positive aspects amidst numerous concerns. It caters primarily to pet owners and travelers passing through who prioritize accommodating their animals, and to budget-conscious travelers seeking a place for a short stopover. However, many guests found the overall quality did not justify the cost. The hotel's dated appearance and pervasive issues with cleanliness and maintenance are recurring themes. To ensure a more comfortable stay, guests are advised to manage their expectations regarding room condition and amenities, and to thoroughly inspect their assigned room upon arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
Feedback on the hotel's facilities is largely negative, with many guests reporting significant issues. The pool is frequently mentioned as being closed, unheated, or dirty, often with chipped paint or sediment, leading to disappointment for those who booked with the expectation of using it. The elevator is a common point of complaint, often reported as broken, out of order, or unclean, forcing guests to use poorly lit or dirty stairwells. Wi-Fi connectivity is consistently described as poor, unreliable, or non-existent in guest rooms, with some only able to access it in the lobby. While parking is available, some guests found it dark, poorly maintained with potholes, or perceived as unsafe. The ice machine is also noted to be frequently out of order or locked, requiring staff assistance.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The cleanliness and comfort of guest rooms are major areas of concern for many visitors. Rooms are frequently described as dirty, filthy, or disgusting, with pervasive unpleasant smells. Common complaints include stained carpets, walls, sheets, and furniture, as well as visible hair and unidentified smears. Many guests reported finding mold or mildew in bathrooms and on A/C units, and some even encountered bugs such as cockroaches, bed bugs, flies, or beetles. The rooms are often perceived as dated and run-down, featuring old furniture, peeling wallpaper, and broken fixtures. While some guests found the beds comfortable, many reported them as uncomfortable, worn, springy, or having hollows, often accompanied by flat pillows and thin blankets. Noise from hallways and adjacent rooms is a frequent issue, and temperature control is often difficult or non-functional.

Dining & Food Quality
Guest feedback on the hotel's dining options, primarily breakfast, is mixed to negative. The complimentary breakfast is generally described as basic and limited, typically offering items such as hard-boiled eggs, toast, cereal, and a pancake maker. Many guests found the food quality to be subpar, with complaints about cold eggs, rubbery pancakes, or poor coffee. Items were often not refilled promptly, and the breakfast room itself is frequently noted as being too small and crowded, leading to long queues. Some guests also reported issues with non-guests accessing the breakfast area and consuming food. The hotel's former restaurant or bar facilities are consistently mentioned as being permanently closed.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location receives mixed reviews from guests. Some found it convenient and central, particularly for accessing nearby attractions like a bingo hall, fast-food establishments, or city bus stops, and for its proximity to major highways. This makes it suitable for travelers needing easy access to transit or specific local venues. However, a significant number of guests described the surrounding area as "rough," "sketchy," or "dingy," raising concerns about safety and the general environment. While parking is available, some guests noted issues with its maintenance and lighting.

Staff & Service
Despite numerous issues with the hotel's physical condition, the staff generally receives positive feedback. Many guests commend the staff for being friendly, helpful, accommodating, polite, and efficient, often highlighting their efforts to assist with concerns. The check-in process is sometimes noted as quick and smooth. However, there are instances of rude staff during check-out or difficulties in obtaining receipts or refunds. Housekeeping is a recurring point of dissatisfaction, with many guests reporting that rooms were not cleaned daily, not vacuumed, or lacked replenished supplies like towels, coffee, or soap. Maintenance requests were also often reported as being slow to be addressed or not resolved at all. The hotel's pet-friendly service is consistently appreciated by guests traveling with animals.

Additional Information
Several important details about the hotel emerged from guest reviews. The pet-friendly policy is a significant draw for many, though some guests noted challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas for pets or unexpected additional fees. A security deposit, often ranging from $100 to $250, is required upon check-in, and some guests reported difficulties or delays in receiving their refund. Many visitors felt that the hotel offered poor overall value, deeming it overpriced given the extensive issues with cleanliness and maintenance. There are also frequent complaints about the pervasive smell of smoke in non-smoking rooms and hallways, indicating a potential issue with adherence to smoking policies.