Sonesta Essential Des Moines

This hotel is undergoing significant renovations aimed at modernizing its appearance, and it consistently offers affordable rates, making it a budget-friendly option for many. While some guests praise the updated look and cleanliness, others report significant issues with maintenance and hygiene, leading to a highly mixed overall impression. The hotel's pet-friendly policy is a notable feature, appealing to travelers with animals. However, potential guests should be aware of the varying experiences regarding room quality and the general atmosphere. It is best suited for budget-conscious travelers and pet owners looking for a quick stop or an overnight stay, rather than those seeking a consistently high-quality or luxurious experience. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to inquire about the specific condition of your room upon arrival and be prepared for potential noise from other guests.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel is currently undergoing renovations, which guests note have brought some modern updates to the property, though the quality and completeness of these updates are inconsistent. While some areas appear refreshed, other facilities show signs of neglect or incomplete work, such as broken doors or unaddressed maintenance issues. Guests report mixed experiences with Wi-Fi connectivity, with some finding it reliable and others experiencing issues. The laundry facilities are frequently noted as being out of order, which can be inconvenient for longer stays. Additionally, ice machines are often reported as broken or only available on certain floors, requiring guests to seek ice elsewhere. There is no swimming pool available, which some guests mention as a drawback, especially for families.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is highly polarized. Many guests describe their rooms as very clean and appreciate the comfortable beds and soft pillows, ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, a significant number of reviews detail severe cleanliness issues, including crusty stains on sheets and floors, blood stains on pillows, trash on floors, boogers on walls, and hair on sheets. Some rooms are noted for having a pervasive unpleasant odor, often described as marijuana smoke, urine, mildew, or a general mustiness. While renovations have updated some rooms, guests frequently report shoddy craftsmanship, broken fixtures like door handles or window screens, and noisy refrigerators. Noise levels are a common complaint, with thin walls allowing sounds from loud neighbors, parties, and barking dogs to disturb sleep.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, which receives mixed reviews regarding its variety and quality. Many guests appreciate the availability of hot options like eggs and sausage, describing the breakfast as good or even delicious. However, others find the selection limited, with some reporting cold food, under-cooked sausage, or a lack of options beyond basic items like waffles, muffins, and cereal. The coffee and juice are generally available, though some guests found the juice watered down. A notable point of contention is the hotel's policy that prohibits guests from taking food away from the breakfast area, which many find inconvenient and frustrating.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently praised by guests, offering easy access to the highway, making it convenient for travelers passing through. It is also well-situated near various malls and restaurants, providing ample dining and shopping options within a short distance. The proximity to the airport is also a plus for air travelers. However, feedback on parking is mixed; while some find the lot spacious, many report issues with limited availability, especially during peak hours, and note that the lot is sometimes occupied by non-customers or vehicles in disrepair. Some guests also express concerns about the general atmosphere in the parking areas, mentioning trash and a perceived lack of security.

Staff & Service
Guest experiences with staff and service are highly varied, ranging from overwhelmingly positive to extremely negative. Many guests commend the friendly staff, describing them as helpful, accommodating, and professional, contributing to a pleasant stay. The check-in process is often noted as quick and easy. However, a significant number of reviews highlight instances of rude, unprofessional, or unresponsive staff. Guests report issues such as staff being difficult to understand, showing impatience, making inappropriate comments, or failing to address concerns like noise complaints or safety issues. There are also reports of staff being unavailable at the front desk or providing inaccurate information, leading to frustration and a feeling of being unwelcomed.

Additional Information
Guests frequently report issues with the hotel's deposit policy, noting that a $50 deposit is often required and can take an extended period to be returned, or in some cases, is not returned at all. The hotel's pet-friendly policy is appreciated by animal owners, but some reviews mention strong pet odors in hallways and rooms, as well as challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas for pets. The property is undergoing ongoing renovations, which, while intended to improve the hotel, sometimes result in incomplete work, such as broken doors or temporary room numbering using masking tape. The presence of long-term guests is a recurring theme, with some guests describing the clientele as a "rough crowd" or similar to an "extended stay motel," which can impact the overall atmosphere and perceived safety for transient visitors.