Clarion Hotel Somerset - New Brunswick

The hotel presents a stark contrast between its updated lobby and the condition of its guest rooms, which many describe as significantly outdated. Its most notable feature is the on-site restaurant, which offers a convenient dining option. While some guests find the hotel to be a suitable choice for budget travelers due to its affordability, others feel it does not offer good value given its condition. The hotel is also considered by some to be family-friendly, though this is often debated due to the nature of the attached restaurant. To ensure a more comfortable stay, guests are advised to manage their expectations regarding room amenities and confirm the availability of specific facilities before arrival, as many are frequently reported as non-operational.

Facilities & Amenities
Feedback on the hotel's facilities is largely negative, with many guests reporting a significant lack of functional amenities. The swimming pool is a frequent point of contention, often described as closed, dirty, murky, or having excessive chlorine, and some even noted a hole in the pool area. The fitness center or gym is consistently reported as having broken equipment or being unavailable. Guests widely criticize the Wi-Fi, calling it "garbage," "weak," and prone to frequent disconnections, making it unsuitable for work. The elevators are another major issue, with reports of them being broken, slow, or only one being operational, leading to long waits and inconvenience. Additionally, laundry facilities and vending machines are often found to be out of order.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Cleanliness and room comfort receive highly mixed, often negative, feedback. Many guests describe their rooms as filthy, disgusting, and grimy, citing issues like vomit and trash behind furniture, various stains on carpets and bed sheets, and mold in bathrooms. The overall room condition is frequently criticized as outdated and falling apart, with peeling wallpaper, worn-out furniture, broken AC grates, and non-functional lamps or outlets. While some guests praise the comfortable beds and amazing bedding, others report uncomfortable, saggy mattresses or even bed bugs. Bathrooms are often noted for low water pressure, non-working exhaust fans, and broken toilet seats. Noise from hallways and the AC unit is also a common complaint.

Dining & Food Quality
The primary dining option available to guests is the on-site restaurant, which is frequently mentioned in reviews. While some guests appreciate the convenience of having a place to eat and drink within the hotel, others find its atmosphere and offerings less suitable, particularly for families or those traveling with children. A significant number of guests express disappointment regarding the breakfast situation, consistently reporting that no complimentary breakfast is offered, or that the hotel's restaurant breakfast is closed during typical hours. Some guests also noted having to pay for coffee in the lobby, indicating a general lack of complimentary food or beverage services.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally considered convenient for travelers, particularly due to its direct proximity to the freeway. This makes it easily accessible for those traveling by car and provides a good base for attending local events or visiting nearby areas. However, concerns are frequently raised about the immediate surroundings and parking areas, with some guests noting the presence of loitering individuals and expressing general safety concerns. Additionally, issues with the hotel's side doors being broken or unsecured are commonly reported, which compromises overall security and accessibility for guests.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding the staff and service is highly polarized. Many guests commend the staff for being friendly, helpful, and attentive, highlighting positive interactions during their stay. However, a significant number of reviews describe staff as rude, unprofessional, unresponsive, or disgruntled, leading to frustrating experiences. The check-in and check-out processes are frequently criticized for being slow, involving long waits, and sometimes including unexpected fees or issues with deposits. Housekeeping services also receive mixed reviews, with some guests reporting rooms not being cleaned or insufficient towels provided. The hotel's pet policy has also caused confusion and frustration for some guests due to inconsistent information regarding weight limits and associated fees.

Additional Information
The hotel is currently undergoing renovations, which some guests note have improved the lobby area, though the rooms largely remain outdated. Guests frequently report unexpected deposits charged upon check-in, which are sometimes not promptly refunded, causing financial inconvenience. There are also recurring complaints about early check-in fees being requested, despite prior arrangements or online information. Security is a notable concern, with multiple mentions of broken side doors that allow unauthorized access to the building, impacting guest safety. Some reviews also suggest the hotel accommodates long-term residents, which contributes to a varied guest demographic.