Holiday Inn Express is always our first choice when travelling. We’re currently travelling a lot and have been staying at various Holiday Inn locations. Pricing could have made this rating a 4 star, but paying $340 for a quite dated and below typical quality for a Holiday Inn was pretty disheartening.
Our check in was smooth, front desk attendant was friendly enough, but the process was the first thing that tipped us off that this Holiday Inn was different (paying for the room up front, rather than just the deposit, and a couple other minor things).
Upon entering our room a light wasn’t left on and we were immediately hit by the smell of the carpet. It needs to be deep cleaned. Peeling wallpaper, bandaid repairs, in need of updates. The bathroom was small and awkwardly set up. Shower head was awful and in dire need of cleaning.
The breakfast was great as were the breakfast staff and cleaning staff we encountered - really friendly! Front desk staff were fine.
Beds were comfortable and clean.
This room would have been acceptable for $180 at a Super 8. I am writing this review from another Holiday Inn hotel that was $220 and is 10x nicer. Maybe everyone should just expect lower quality everything when it comes to Barrie, lol.