Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Charlotte I-85 Airport, NC

This hotel is primarily chosen for its proximity to the airport and the convenience of its shuttle service, making it a practical choice for transit travelers and those with early morning flights or layovers. While some guests find it to be a budget-friendly option for short stays, a significant number express extreme dissatisfaction with the hotel's overall condition, cleanliness, and maintenance, describing it as run-down, dated, and in need of major renovation. The general atmosphere is often perceived as unsettling or unkempt. To ensure a smoother experience, it is advisable to manage expectations regarding the hotel's physical state and to confirm shuttle service availability directly with the hotel upon arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a fitness center, though many guests report it is poorly maintained, with broken equipment, missing accessories, and a general lack of cleanliness. The swimming pool is frequently mentioned as being closed, either seasonally or due to maintenance issues, with some guests noting it appeared dirty when visible. Wi-Fi is available, but its reliability is mixed, with some experiencing spotty or non-existent connections. The elevators also receive mixed reviews, with some being clean and functional, while others are reported as out of order or dirty. The lobby and common areas present a varied impression, sometimes described as peaceful and pleasant-smelling, but often noted as dimly lit, worn, or unkempt, with some guests reporting out-of-order restrooms. A small, overpriced store with limited options is available. Guests have also reported issues with the ice machines, citing mold and disrepair, and the laundry facilities are often found to be problematic, with machines not working correctly. Parking is a recurring concern, described as having potholes, being poorly lit, and feeling unsafe, with some guests even reporting their vehicles being towed from adjacent, unmarked areas.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is highly polarized. While some guests describe their rooms as clean and comfortable, many others report significant issues. Common complaints include dirty carpets with visible stains, tears, and even hair or crumbs from previous guests. Bedding is frequently described as worn, stained, or having holes, with some guests finding hair on sheets or in the sink. Instances of roaches or other bugs in rooms and bathrooms are reported by multiple guests, along with bed bug bites. Bathrooms often receive negative comments regarding mold, mildew, clogged drains, leaking showers, broken fixtures, and a general lack of thorough cleaning. Some rooms are noted to have a persistent musty smell or an unpleasant odor. Beds are inconsistently reviewed; some find them comfortable, while others describe them as lumpy, saggy, or unstable, leading to uncomfortable sleep. Noise levels are a concern, with reports of loud neighbors, hallway noise, and bright lights from outside due to inadequate curtains, impacting sleep quality. Basic amenities like towels and washcloths are often reported as insufficient, stained, or threadbare, and some rooms lack essential items like toilet paper, tissues, coffee makers, or irons.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast service receives predominantly negative feedback, with many guests expressing significant disappointment. While advertised as complimentary, numerous reviews state that breakfast was either not served at all due to staffing issues or "unforeseen circumstances," or that it was severely lacking. When available, the breakfast variety is described as very limited, often consisting only of waffles, eggs, and sausages. Guests frequently report that food pans were empty, items ran out quickly, or that the food quality was poor, with eggs being dry or sausages tough. Basic beverage options like juice or milk are often unavailable, and coffee is sometimes reported as cold or of poor quality. Many guests note a lack of essential items such as plates, cups, napkins, or utensils. The overall impression is that the breakfast offering is inconsistent, poorly managed, and does not meet guest expectations, often leading to frustration.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as its primary advantage, particularly its proximity to the airport. Many guests choose this hotel specifically for its convenience to the airport and the availability of a shuttle service. The hotel is described as being within a short driving distance, making it suitable for quick transfers. However, the immediate surroundings of the hotel receive mixed to negative comments. Some guests find the area to be unkempt or unsettling, with reports of potholes in the parking lot and a general lack of maintenance around the property. While some appreciate the convenience of nearby shopping and dining options like a grocery store, fast-food restaurants, and a shopping plaza, others feel the area is not safe or desirable for walking. The hotel's position behind a restaurant can make it difficult to find for first-time visitors.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel receives mixed reviews, with many guests praising individual employees for being friendly, helpful, and accommodating, particularly at the front desk and among shuttle drivers. Guests appreciate instances of quick check-in and staff efforts to resolve issues like room changes or shuttle requests. However, a significant number of reviews highlight issues with poor customer service, including unhelpful or rude interactions, lack of eye contact, and a general impression of indifference. Staffing levels are a recurring concern, with reports of the front desk being unattended, and the same person often performing multiple roles, such as driving the airport shuttle and managing check-ins. This understaffing leads to long wait times for shuttle pickups and at the front desk. Communication is also an issue, with guests reporting difficulty reaching the hotel by phone and a lack of follow-up on complaints. Some guests also note a lack of assistance with luggage from shuttle drivers.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel often requires a security deposit upon check-in, which some guests report experiencing issues with regarding timely refunds or unexpected charges. There are frequent mentions of the hotel's phone system being unreliable, with calls going unanswered or lines being disconnected, making it difficult to contact the front desk or arrange services. The hotel's shuttle service, while advertised as 24/7, is often problematic due to understaffing, leading to significant wait times or even no pickup at all, forcing guests to arrange alternative transportation. Some guests report issues with room keys deactivating prematurely. The hotel's general state of disrepair is a common theme, with mentions of worn carpets, damaged furniture, and a pervasive musty smell in hallways and rooms. Some guests also note a lack of basic in-room amenities such as coffee makers, irons, or sufficient towels.