My recent stay at the Holiday Inn Express, while brief, was a mixed experience that highlighted both the conveniences and areas for improvement. Traveling with my family for just one night, we found the hotel's location to be its standout feature, especially for those planning to visit the AO Arena. The vicinity is bustling with a variety of dining options, there is hotel recommended paid parking at a discounted rate of £18 with a code, I discovered a nearby parking option for a more economical £6.70 for 20 hours.
The room itself, although showing signs of age, was maintained clean. This aspect of our stay was satisfactory, meeting the basic expectations for comfort and hygiene. However, the experience took a turn when it came to the breakfast service. It was evident that the hotel was not adequately prepared for the morning rush, suffering from a noticeable lack of staff. This resulted in less than ideal service, which was a disappointment considering the importance of starting the day on a positive note, especially when traveling.
On a brighter note, the selection of food available for breakfast was commendable for the price charged. It suggests that with better staffing and management, the dining experience could be greatly improved, aligning it more closely with the hotel's other positive attributes.
In conclusion, the Holiday Inn Express offers a strategic location for visitors to the AO Arena, with the added benefit of being surrounded by numerous dining and afforda