Sonesta Simply Suites Charlotte University

The hotel's spacious rooms equipped with full kitchenettes are a key feature, offering guests the convenience of home-like amenities for longer stays. This makes it ideal for extended-stay guests, families seeking self-catering options, and pet owners due to its accommodating policies. Business travelers also find the room layout and desk space suitable for their needs. While many guests praise the friendly staff and the convenience of the kitchen facilities, recurring themes in reviews highlight significant concerns regarding pervasive unpleasant odors throughout the property and the generally outdated condition of the rooms and common areas. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to inquire about all potential fees upfront and be prepared for a hotel that may show signs of age.

Facilities & Amenities
Many guests appreciate the convenience of the kitchenette with a full-size refrigerator, microwave, and stove, allowing for self-catering and cost savings. Some rooms also include a dishwasher. A fitness center is available for guest use, and laundry facilities are provided, though some guests noted the need for an app to operate them. The elevator is a frequent point of discussion, with many guests reporting it to be clunky, noisy, or even out of service, causing concern and inconvenience. While Wi-Fi is available, some reviews mention it being unreliable or having poor connectivity. Similarly, the TVs are often described as old, having poor picture quality, or limited channels.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
A significant number of guests report that rooms appear outdated and show signs of wear, including worn furniture, stained carpets, and peeling paint. Some reviews specifically mention the presence of mold on bathroom ceilings or water damage. A pervasive issue highlighted by many is the presence of various unpleasant odors throughout the property, including in hallways and rooms, ranging from smoke and pet odors to musty or chemical smells. While some guests found the beds comfortable, others experienced discomfort or issues like broken sofa beds. Noise can be a concern, with complaints about noisy AC units, refrigerator noise, and sounds from adjacent rooms or hallways impacting sleep. The bathroom condition is also mixed, with some praising water pressure but others noting old fixtures, cleanliness issues, or low toilets.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel does not offer a complimentary breakfast, which some guests noted as a drawback, particularly for those expecting it. However, a key feature that many guests appreciate is the presence of a well-equipped kitchenette in the rooms. This includes a full-size refrigerator, microwave, and stove, allowing guests the flexibility to prepare their own meals. This self-catering option is highly valued by those looking to save money on eating out, manage dietary needs, or simply prefer home-cooked food, especially during longer stays. Rooms are typically furnished with a dining table and basic kitchenware, making it convenient for in-room dining. While there are no on-site restaurants or room service mentioned, the comprehensive kitchenette facilities significantly enhance the overall dining experience for guests.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location receives mixed feedback, with many guests finding it convenient and close to various attractions, restaurants, and shopping options, particularly for those with a car. Some appreciate its proximity to the university area. However, a few guests note that there isn't much within walking distance, and the immediate surroundings can feel somewhat isolated or dark at night. Parking is a frequently discussed topic; while some reviews mention free parking, many express frustration over an unexpected daily parking fee, which is often perceived as an unnecessary additional cost, especially given the suburban setting and the size of the lot. The parking lot itself is described as fairly small and can have activity at night.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise from guests, with many describing them as friendly, helpful, and attentive. Reviewers frequently highlight positive interactions with front desk personnel, noting their professionalism and willingness to assist with issues or provide local information. The check-in and check-out processes are generally reported as smooth and efficient. While the staff is often commended for their customer service in addressing concerns like room issues or moving guests, some reviews mention inconsistencies in housekeeping services, with requests for room cleaning or fresh linens not always being met, or rooms not being thoroughly cleaned between guests.

Additional Information
The hotel is notably pet-friendly, a feature appreciated by many guests traveling with animals, though some mention an additional pet fee and challenges finding suitable outdoor areas. A significant point of contention for many guests is the security deposit required at check-in, with numerous complaints about delays in its refund, sometimes taking several business days or even weeks. Guests should also be aware of potential early check-in fees if arriving before the standard check-in time. While not explicitly called a destination fee, some guests mention unexpected charges like the daily parking fee. The availability of laundry facilities is a convenience, but some guests found the requirement to use a specific app for payment inconvenient.