Candlewood Suites - Lancaster West by IHG

This hotel is widely recognized for its spacious rooms featuring kitchenettes, a signature amenity that provides guests with a comfortable, home-like atmosphere, particularly beneficial for extended stays. Many guests consistently highlight the hotel's overall cleanliness and the exceptional friendliness of the staff. The property is also notably pet-friendly, making it a convenient choice for travelers with pets. Its value and affordability are frequently praised, attracting a diverse range of guests including families participating in local tournaments and business travelers on longer assignments. To ensure a pleasant experience, guests should be aware that the indoor pool is often reported as unheated, and it is advisable to confirm its operational status and temperature prior to arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's kitchenette is a standout feature, equipped with a full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, stove, cookware, dishes, and silverware, allowing guests to prepare their own meals and save on dining expenses. Guests highly appreciate the complimentary free laundry services available in the laundry room, a significant convenience for longer stays. While an indoor pool and fitness center are available, the pool is frequently noted by guests as being unheated or closed for maintenance, which can be disappointing for those expecting a warm swim. A pantry or self-service cupboard offers snacks and essentials, though some guests have reported issues with stock levels or payment processing. Free Wi-Fi is provided, and many rooms include a comfortable recliner and a coffee maker.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
While many guests praise the spacious rooms and general cleanliness, a notable number of reviews report significant issues. Some guests encountered serious problems such as bed bugs, roaches, and mold in bathrooms, along with observations of dirty sheets, stained carpets, and hair in various areas. Rooms are generally described as comfortable, though some found the beds to be firm or the pillows uncomfortable. Noise levels are a mixed bag; while some guests found the hotel quiet, others were disturbed by street noise, elevator noise, and sounds from adjacent rooms due to perceived thin walls. A recurring and significant complaint is the lack of consistent hot water for showers, impacting guest comfort. Some rooms also had a lingering smoke odor.

Dining & Food Quality
A consistent point of feedback is the absence of free breakfast at the hotel, which some guests found to be a drawback. However, the presence of a fully equipped kitchenette in every room largely mitigates this, allowing guests to prepare their own meals and snacks. The hotel also offers a pantry or marketplace where guests can purchase various food items and essentials. Additionally, free coffee is available in the lobby, providing a convenient option for a morning beverage. There are no mentions of on-site restaurants or room service, reinforcing the hotel's extended-stay model where guests are encouraged to self-cater.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly convenient location, frequently praised for its easy access to the interstate and proximity to popular attractions such as the Dutch Apple Dinner Theater and Field of Screams. Guests appreciate being close to various shopping and dining options, making it easy to find necessities and entertainment. Parking is generally described as well-lit and spacious, though some guests reported difficulties finding spots during peak times or due to ongoing construction in the surrounding area. This construction has also been noted to cause increased street noise and occasional traffic congestion, impacting the overall accessibility and tranquility of the immediate vicinity.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for being exceptionally friendly staff, helpful, and accommodating. Many guests highlight positive interactions, noting the staff's willingness to assist with requests and provide a warm welcome. However, feedback regarding the check-in and check-out processes is mixed; while some found it quick and efficient, others reported issues with rude staff, long waits, and problems with reservations, including instances of overbooking. Manager responsiveness is a significant area of concern for some guests, particularly when serious issues like overbooking, refunds, or persistent cleanliness problems arose, with some reporting difficulties in receiving timely or satisfactory resolutions. Housekeeping service is also mentioned, with some guests noting a lack of daily service.

Additional Information
The hotel's pet policy is a notable feature, allowing guests to travel with their animals, though some reviews indicate confusion or dissatisfaction regarding the fee structure, with some guests being charged per pet rather than per stay. Guests should be aware of potential early checkout fees if their plans change, as this has been a point of contention for some. There have also been isolated reports of issues with deposit return processes. While generally considered safe, some guests have raised minor security concerns, such as staff announcing room numbers or side doors being left unsecured. It is important to note that no daily maid service is typically provided, aligning with the hotel's extended-stay concept, meaning guests are responsible for maintaining their rooms during longer visits.