We picked this Quality Inn & Suites for the price and proximity to a concert and the Hard Rock Casino. It turns out you really do get what you pay for.
The hotel sits in a rough, run-down area of Tampa. I didn’t feel unsafe, but the parking situation didn’t help—very few handicapped spots, a nearly full lot, and poor lighting that made parking in the back feel like a side quest you didn’t sign up for.
Check-in was quick, and the front desk staff were genuinely friendly. Unfortunately, the room was located at the end of a marathon-length hallway. While the room itself was clean, that’s where the good news ended. The bed was painfully uncomfortable and cracked loudly with any movement. The pillows were small and lumpy, the desk was broken and leaning, the chair was hard and joyless, and one of the coat hooks was missing entirely.
The TV wasn’t a smart TV, had no guide, and the remote barely worked—missing its battery cover, which felt very on brand.
The listing promised a “hot breakfast.” Reality delivered DIY waffles, lukewarm hard-boiled eggs, a few yogurts, cereal, bagels, broken juice options, and sour coffee. Guests are also required to eat in the breakfast area, surrounded by the saddest group of NPCs imaginable, including a man-bun tank-top waffle guardian.
We couldn’t check out fast enough. The staff was kind, but I won’t stay here again. Next time, I’ll gladly pay more for a hotel with a bed that doesn’t fight back and amenities that actually exist.