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Good deal for the money
I wanted a decent yet "affordable" place while visiting my kid for parent weekend at UCSB. Most hotels in the Santa Barbara area were either booked solid, outrageously expensive, or received scary terrible reviews in Trip Advisor. Based on some of the positive reviews I read I decided to take my chances for 4 nights. I'm glad I did.
I dealt directly with the hotel and I found everyone at the front desk extremely helpful. At the time I booked my reservation, due to parent weekend, they only had a non-smoking room available for just 2 out of the 4 nights. David, the front desk person, told me he felt confident that by the time of my arrivial they could probably keep me in the same room. I called a few times before arrival to see if I would have to play musical rooms. All front desk staff was nice and assured me I would have the non-smoking room the entire time. And I did.
Since I travel extensively for business and pleasure, I have my own set of criteria for judging hotels. The room rate for my stay ($88.00 Thursday and Sunday nights, $108.00 for Fri and Sat) was a real deal for the Santa Barbara area. I was NOT expecting a 4 or 5 star property for this price in this town.
PROS:
Very convenient to UCSB and SB airport (10 minute drive)
Extremely friendly and helpful desk staff
They offer a free taxi to and from the SB airport
Nice continential breakfast: waffles, croissants, cakes, muffins, hard boiled eggs, fruit, yogurt, good coffee, cereals, etc.
Nice pool and hot tub area (with a really HOT tub)
Cute "lagoon" (i.e. very small pond) with a couple of ducks
Across street from IHOP and down street from In&Out Burger
1-1/2 mile drive/walk from great park with trails in foothills.
Relatively quiet.
Catherdral ceilings in 2nd floor rooms.
Good hot water and great shower pressure.
Bed and pillows were comfortable
Plentiful parking
CONS:
It's an older property. Ok, dated. Room is definitely showing wear and tear.
No automatic checkouts.
My room did have a stale smell. Couldn't tell from what in particular was causing it but keeping balcony door open for fresh air helped.
Must drive to beaches. It's about 10 miles from the main Santa Barbara downtown shopping area and wharf. Not sure what taxis cost but I think having a car is necessary to get around
TIP: In regards to noise, since I encounter unwelcome sounds in the "best" hotels, I've learned to travel with earplugs. Earplugs signifcantly mufflethe sound of traffic, air conditioners, tvs (or guests) from the next room, etc.
I was told that this facility is scheduled to be remodeled so it may also mean an eventual hike in prices. Until then, I will definitely stay here on my next trips to SB.
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