Candlewood Suites Richmond Airport by IHG

The hotel offers a practical and convenient stay, particularly appealing to travelers seeking extended accommodations or those needing close proximity to the airport. Its signature feature is the inclusion of well-equipped kitchenettes in most rooms, providing guests with the flexibility to prepare their own meals and offering a home-like experience. While many guests appreciate the spaciousness and comfort of the rooms, feedback on overall cleanliness and maintenance is notably mixed, with some reporting issues despite others finding their rooms spotless. The hotel is a suitable option for business travelers and long-term guests due to its apartment-style amenities, and it also caters to pet owners, though some advise checking the specific pet policies and potential associated smells. However, potential guests should be aware that the advertised airport shuttle service is often unreliable, necessitating alternative transportation. It is advisable to thoroughly inspect your room upon arrival for any maintenance issues and to confirm shuttle availability in advance to ensure a smoother experience.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities designed for convenience, particularly for longer stays. Most rooms feature a kitchenette or full kitchen, complete with a hot plate, microwave, full-size refrigerator, dishwasher, and essential dishes and utensils, which guests find highly beneficial for self-catering. A laundry room is available for guest use, though some reviews mention issues with machine functionality or ventilation. There is also a mini-market or pantry on-site for quick purchases, but it is often reported as poorly stocked. A gym or fitness center is present, generally described as well-equipped, though some guests note cleanliness issues. Connectivity can be a challenge, as Wi-Fi is frequently reported as unreliable or non-functional. The elevator is a recurring point of concern, with many guests experiencing it as slow, old, or out of order, leading to inconvenient stair use. Parking is generally easy and ample, though some guests express concerns about the cleanliness and safety of the back parking lot.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably varied. While many guests commend the rooms for being exceptionally clean and well-maintained, others report significant issues, including stained carpets, mold in bathrooms, roaches, and unpleasant odors such as cigarette smoke, marijuana, animal urine, or mildew. The beds receive mixed reviews; many find them comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, while some describe them as saggy, too soft, or even broken. Room condition and maintenance are frequent concerns, with reports of non-working air conditioning, broken toilets, showers with low pressure or leaks, faulty TVs and remotes, and general wear and tear on furniture. Noise levels also vary, with some guests enjoying a quiet stay, while others are disturbed by loud neighbors, corridor noise, or even airplane noise. Bathrooms specifically draw criticism for issues like lack of toiletries, dirty fixtures, and non-functional exhaust fans.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's approach to dining is primarily self-service, as breakfast is consistently noted as not being included or offered as a complimentary amenity. Guests appreciate the availability of free coffee and tea 24/7 in the lobby, which is generally well-regarded. However, the on-site mini-market or pantry, intended for quick food purchases, often receives criticism for being poorly stocked, with guests reporting a lack of essential items like milk for cereal or bottled water. The presence of a kitchenette in each room is a significant advantage, enabling guests to prepare their own meals and reducing the reliance on external dining options. For those preferring to eat out, reviews suggest that various restaurants and dining establishments are conveniently located nearby, offering alternatives to the hotel's limited food provisions.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a primary draw for many guests, particularly its close proximity to the airport, often just a 5 to 10-minute drive away. This makes it a popular choice for travelers with early flights or late arrivals. However, a significant point of contention is the airport shuttle service, which is frequently advertised but often unavailable, operates with limited hours, or requires extensive advance notice, forcing guests to rely on expensive ride-sharing services. Parking at the hotel is generally described as easy and ample, though some guests express concerns about the cleanliness and perceived safety of the back parking lot. The hotel is conveniently situated near various shopping centers, grocery stores, and a selection of restaurants, providing easy access to amenities. While some guests feel the area is safe, others report concerns about loitering individuals and loud activities in the parking lot, particularly at night.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding staff and service is highly polarized. Many guests commend the staff for being exceptionally friendly, helpful, attentive, and courteous, often going above and beyond to assist with requests and provide a welcoming experience. Specific positive mentions include smooth check-in processes and responsive front desk agents. However, a notable number of reviews describe staff as unprofessional, rude, indifferent, or lacking in basic customer service skills, with instances of dismissiveness or unresponsiveness to guest concerns. Housekeeping is a recurring issue, as rooms are typically cleaned only once every seven days, and guests are often expected to manage their own trash and bring dirty towels to the front desk for replacement. Furthermore, maintenance requests are frequently reported as being slow to be addressed or completely ignored, contributing to guest frustration with the overall service quality.

Additional Information
Several important details enhance or detract from the guest experience. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by many, though some guests report issues with animal-related odors or fleas in rooms, and challenges finding suitable outdoor areas for pets. A common frustration revolves around key card malfunctions, with guests frequently reporting that their cards deactivate or fail to work, necessitating multiple trips to the front desk for reprogramming. Despite being a non-smoking facility, numerous reviews mention pervasive cigarette and marijuana smells in hallways and even in rooms. The hotel appears to cater significantly to long-term stays, evident from the kitchenette amenities and weekly housekeeping schedule. Guests should also be aware of potential undisclosed fees or deposits, and some IHG Rewards members feel their benefits are not consistently honored. Additionally, the hotel does not provide cribs or pack-n-plays, which can be an inconvenience for families traveling with infants or young children.