Hotel overnight

Question

Omg. I’m on trip advisor Expedia and have conflicting thoughts as where to stay overnight. We are heading back home from the winter making a stop her or in the area. Lots of bad reviews for most hotels. Outdated. Ants dirty. I know you have to read between the lines but I’m so confused now where to stay. We want clean and nice hotel pleas if reading this and have recently been let me know your thoughts. We did stay last year at the ocean lodge. Liked it. Not on beach but was clean. Now I’m reading bad reviews. Looking for honest advise please. Thank you kindly in advance

Answer

It sounds like you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the options and conflicting reviews, which is completely understandable! Saint Simons Island is a lovely place to stop, and it's important to find a hotel that meets your expectations for cleanliness and comfort. Since you stayed at The Ocean Lodge last year and liked it, it could be a good idea to return, but I understand your concerns about the recent reviews. Let’s break down your options and explore some possible alternatives:

First off, it's not uncommon to see mixed reviews for hotels in popular tourist areas. Sometimes the expectations for cleanliness and service can vary widely, so it’s helpful to focus on more recent reviews and consider trends rather than individual experiences. Here are some suggestions for where you might stay in the area:

The Ocean Lodge: Since you had a good experience last year, you might want to reconsider it despite the recent mixed reviews. It is a great location on Saint Simons Island, with a cozy and quaint atmosphere. Some of the recent negative reviews may be from guests who had isolated issues, so it’s worth looking at more recent reviews and considering whether the negatives (if any) align with your priorities. The fact that you liked it last year suggests it may still be a solid choice for a clean, nice place to stay.
King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort: If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale and beachside, this is a great option. Located directly on the beach, it offers more amenities, such as a pool and golf, and is generally known for its cleanliness and excellent service. The hotel does cater to tourists, but it’s a popular choice for those looking for a well-kept and upscale place to stay.
Sea Island Resort: If you're open to splurging a bit more, Sea Island Resort offers a luxurious experience with a reputation for high-quality service and pristine conditions. It’s known for its top-notch facilities, including spa treatments, golf courses, and fine dining. While it’s a more expensive option, it might provide the level of quality you’re looking for if you want a more refined stay.
Comfort Suites Saint Simons Island: For a more budget-friendly option, Comfort Suites tends to receive favorable reviews for its cleanliness and convenient location. It’s not on the beach, but it's close to many shops and attractions. It’s a solid choice for those looking for a clean, reliable place to stay without breaking the bank.
The Beachview Club: If you're looking for a boutique-style stay, The Beachview Club offers a cozy atmosphere with a quieter, less commercialized vibe. It's clean and has a good reputation for customer service, and it’s close enough to the beach for a pleasant walk. This could be a great middle-ground option between a small inn and a larger hotel chain.

Things to Consider:

Location: If you want to be closer to the beach, options like The King and Prince or Sea Island Resort may be more ideal, while The Ocean Lodge and Comfort Suites are both a bit further from the beach but still centrally located on the island.
Budget: If you're more budget-conscious, The Ocean Lodge and Comfort Suites are good choices. However, if you want a more luxurious experience and are willing to spend more, Sea Island Resort or The King and Prince would be more upscale options.
Recent Reviews: Always check the most recent reviews, as hotels can change over time. If you’re worried about cleanliness, prioritize reviews mentioning housekeeping and the quality of the rooms. This can give you a better idea of the current state of the property.

Overall, Saint Simons Island has several great options depending on your budget and preferences. If you liked The Ocean Lodge last year, it might still be a safe bet—just be sure to check recent reviews to see if the issues mentioned in the reviews are things that would concern you. If you’re looking for a change, there are other highly rated properties like The King and Prince or Sea Island Resort that offer top-notch amenities.

Best of luck with your trip, and I hope you find the perfect place to stay!