Residence Inn by Marriott Visalia

This hotel is often chosen for its spacious rooms and full kitchens, making it a practical choice for long-term guests and families seeking extended stays or a home-away-of-home experience. While many appreciate the comfortable accommodations and the convenience of in-room cooking facilities, a significant number of guests have reported concerning issues, particularly regarding room cleanliness and pest infestations. The hotel also faces criticism for its unexpected parking fees and, in some severe cases, highly negative interactions with staff concerning payment and deposits. For business travelers or those on work assignments, the large rooms and kitchenettes are beneficial. To ensure a smoother stay, guests are advised to confirm all payment and deposit policies upfront, thoroughly inspect their room upon arrival for cleanliness, and be prepared for the additional parking charge.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed to enhance guest comfort and convenience. Many guests enjoy the recreational options, including a basketball court and an inviting outdoor fire area for evening relaxation. A hot tub is available for unwinding, and the fitness center is praised for being large, well-appointed, and equipped with actual weights, not just cardio machines. While free Wi-Fi is generally available, some guests have reported connectivity issues. A washer/dryer area is provided for guest use, though some find the coin-operated laundry to be expensive. However, there are notable concerns regarding maintenance, with reports of non-functioning elevators and in-room phones. Some areas, like stairwells, have been noted to contain rat traps, and the pool area has received complaints about being dirty and having bugs, with no dedicated restroom facilities for the fitness or pool areas.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is highly mixed. Many guests appreciate the spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and plush linens, often highlighting the larger fridge/kitchen and ample plugs and USB charging ports. The room finishings and large television are also frequently mentioned positively. However, a significant number of reviews detail severe cleanliness issues, including widespread reports of ants and, more alarmingly, bed bugs. Guests have also noted mold in showers and toilets, dirty carpets in both rooms and hallways, and unpleasant smells, sometimes described as dog urine. The shower design is a recurring complaint, with water often spilling onto the bathroom floor due to half-doors or lack of curtains. Noise from the highway and outside activities is also a common issue, impacting the overall tranquility of the stay.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, which receives varied feedback. Many guests praise the impressive and outstanding quality, noting the good food selection and the efforts of the attendant to keep the breakfast area well-stocked and clean. The area itself is described as light and bright with ample seating options. However, some guests have found the breakfast to be subpar, consisting of mostly basic or pre-packaged options. There are frequent complaints about the lack of hot food, such as meat or scrambled eggs, and instances where hot entrees and coffee were empty, or utensils were unavailable, especially during peak times. Some guests also found it unusual to have to specifically ask for items like butter and cream cheese.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a point of contention among guests. While some find it conveniently located off the 198 and appreciate its proximity to food options, grocery stores, and a park with a dog area, many others describe it as being in a rural area or "middle of nowhere," lacking nearby dining or entertainment. A significant and recurring complaint is the parking fee, which ranges from $10 to $15 per night. Guests find this charge excessive and "predatory" given the hotel's location with ample open space and no apparent shortage of parking. The highway noise is frequently mentioned, with some guests reporting disturbances from cars speeding or doing "donuts" in adjacent lots. The area is generally considered safe, with well-lit parking, but the unexpected and high parking cost is a major detractor for many.

Staff & Service
Guest experiences with staff and service are highly polarized. Many guests praise the friendly staff, describing them as helpful, attentive, and welcoming, contributing to a positive stay. Specific individuals at the front desk have been highlighted for their politeness and accommodating nature. However, a substantial number of reviews detail extremely negative encounters, particularly concerning check-in and payment issues. There are multiple reports of guests being locked out or asked to leave in the middle of the night due to deposit disputes, even when insurance was covering the stay. Some staff members are described as unprofessional, unhelpful, and even rude, with complaints about poor communication, unanswered phone calls, and a perceived lack of concern from management regarding serious issues. This inconsistency in service significantly impacts guest satisfaction.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several specific policies and features. The hotel has a pet-friendly policy, though a significant pet charge of $150 is applied. For those needing to check in earlier, an early check-in fee of $50 may be charged, even if the room is ready. While the hotel participates in a rewards program, some guests have reported issues with receiving promised points or credits, particularly after negative experiences. A notable concern is the hotel's policy requiring 48-hour advance notice for early departure, with guests being charged for additional nights if this is not met, often without clear prior disclosure. Unlike some other hotels, there is no complimentary coffee or ice water in the lobby, nor is a daily newspaper available. Additionally, the property does not have an exterior outlet for EV charging.