Howard Johnson

Wow! This was probably THE worst motel I’ve ever stayed at in the United States (I’ve been at a few that were worse in other countries… third world countries!) This is a worn out motel complex that was probably in its heyday in the 50s or 60s. It was recently taken over by Howard Johnson (I didn’t even know that HoJo hotels still existed). The room had a card entry (that was fine), and everything worked, but it was grungy. I actually washed and sanitized my hands a few times after touching things in the room that were sticky (and I’m not a «germophobe»…I’ve never done that in a US motel before!). Glancing at the shower, the first impression is that someone spread feces on the walls, but on closer inspection it was the glue for fastening on soon-​to-​be-​placed bathroom tiles.
The sheets were clean and the bed was comfortable. That’s what I was there for, so that was the most important thing.
There was a continental breakfast included («a variety of five cold cereals and choice of hot oatmeal or grits» as someone told me on check-​in). True, but everything was in factory sealed packages, including the bagels! (After what I said about the room cleanliness, that’s probably a good idea).
There was a garbage can in the hallway that was overflowing, from the time I arrived until after I left. There was a swimming pool, but it was closed.
I hope the shift to Howard Johnson will involve an upgrade of the rooms, but I am not going to stay here again.