Holiday Inn New London - Mystic Area By Ihg

This hotel is often highlighted for its spacious rooms and a prime location that offers easy access to downtown attractions, the train station, and the ferry terminal. It serves as an ideal base for sightseers exploring the city, business travelers seeking convenience, and event attendees visiting local venues. Guests frequently commend the hotel's generally clean environment, the comfort of its beds, and the consistently friendly and helpful staff. However, some reviews indicate that the property is showing signs of age, with certain areas appearing dated or in need of maintenance. For a more comfortable stay, it is advisable to confirm the availability of recently updated rooms. Additionally, guests should be aware that parking can be challenging during peak event times, and it is wise to clarify breakfast inclusions upon booking to avoid surprises.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities designed to enhance guest convenience and comfort. Many appreciate the presence of a gym/fitness center, though some note it has been under construction at times. The indoor pool is generally well-received, described as clean and a good temperature, although a few guests found it cold. A significant advantage is the free parking, which is often easy to access, though it can become limited or challenging during busy periods, with some guests noting signs warning about potential theft. Rooms are equipped with practical amenities such as a fridge and microwave, adding to the convenience. Other available facilities include a business service area with a computer and printer, and a laundry area. However, some guests mentioned issues with TVs being dated or having non-functional remotes, and occasional problems with non-working ice machines or noisy/shaky elevators.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is generally positive, with many praising the clean rooms and comfortable beds that ensure a restful sleep. The spacious rooms are a recurring highlight, providing ample space for guests. However, some reviews point to inconsistencies, mentioning instances of stained linens, threadbare towels, or a musty smell. Specific issues noted include chipping paint, crumbling bathroom ceilings, and ripped hallway carpets, suggesting a need for updates. Bathroom conditions receive mixed comments, with some reporting issues like a "screaming" toilet, inconsistent hot water, low water pressure, or broken fixtures. Noise levels can also be a concern, with reports of noisy AC units, train whistles, street noise, and sounds from loud neighbors or events, indicating that thin walls can impact tranquility. Additionally, some rooms lack modern conveniences like USB ports.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel features an on-site restaurant and bar, La Luna, which receives varied feedback. Many guests praise the food quality and service at the restaurant, highlighting it as a convenient option for dinner, sometimes with live music. The cuisine is noted to be Italian, and while some find it delicious, others mention it can be pricey with limited choices. A significant point of contention is the breakfast, which is generally not complimentary and often described as expensive for its quality. Guests report limited breakfast variety, with some finding options like "synthetic ham" unappetizing, and express frustration over extra charges for items like orange juice. The breakfast service can also be understaffed, leading to delays and a less pleasant experience. Some guests even reported instances of food poisoning, and overall, the breakfast is frequently cited as a major disappointment, often operated by a third party.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently lauded as a major advantage, offering excellent accessibility to various points of interest. Guests appreciate being within walking distance of downtown New London, including Bank Street restaurants, the train station, and the Garde Arts Center. Its proximity to the ferry terminal makes it a convenient choice for travelers. The hotel also provides easy access to major highways, facilitating travel to nearby attractions such as Mystic, local colleges, and casinos like Mohegan Sun. While the free parking is a benefit, some guests express concerns about the surrounding neighborhood, describing it as somewhat rundown or "sketchy," and note that parking signs warn against theft, though many still feel safe within the hotel's immediate vicinity. Despite these minor concerns, the location remains a primary draw for most visitors.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests highlight the welcoming and professional demeanor of the front desk team, noting their efficiency during check-in and their willingness to accommodate requests, such as room changes due to issues. Housekeeping services are generally commended for keeping rooms clean and refreshed daily, and for being responsive to guest needs. Specific instances of excellent service include staff going above and beyond to deliver forgotten items or efficiently addressing maintenance concerns. While the majority of feedback is positive, a few guests reported isolated incidents of unhelpful or rude staff members, or delays during check-in. Overall, the dedication of the staff to providing a positive guest experience is a recurring theme, making many feel like "family" or "at home."

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several important details that may impact their stay. The hotel often requires an incidental deposit, typically around $100, which is held on a credit card and not always clearly explained at booking, leading to some frustration regarding its refund process. While the hotel is generally well-maintained, many reviews indicate that the property is dated and in need of significant upgrades and renovations to its decor and furnishings. Some guests reported that the gym was under construction during their visit, impacting amenity availability. There are also recurring mentions of noise from events held at the hotel, which can be disruptive, particularly for rooms located near event spaces. Furthermore, some guests noted issues with security concerns in the parking lot, with signs warning about potential theft, and occasional reports of disruptive behavior from other guests.