Holiday Inn Express & Suites Courtenay - Comox By Ihg

The hotel distinguishes itself with its modern, new facilities and consistently praised exceptional cleanliness, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for guests. Its signature feature is the combination of spacious rooms and a delicious and varied breakfast, complemented by an outstandingly friendly and helpful staff. This makes it an ideal choice for a diverse range of travelers, including families (especially those participating in sports tournaments), business travelers seeking convenience, couples on a getaway, and pet owners looking for accommodating lodging. To ensure a smooth stay, guests are advised to clarify the room cleaning schedule upon arrival, as service is often by request, and to familiarize themselves with the unique room card system for seamless access to power and amenities.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities & amenities designed to enhance guest comfort and convenience. The pool is a popular feature, particularly among children, providing a refreshing option for relaxation, though some guests note it is small and lacks a hot tub, and occasionally experiences temporary closures or cleanliness concerns. A well-equipped fitness center is available 24/7, appreciated by many for maintaining their routines, although a few guests expressed a desire for more diverse equipment. A significant highlight is the ample EV charging stations, offering great convenience for electric vehicle owners. Guests also benefit from reliable free Wi-Fi, a lobby convenience store for quick needs, and access to a laundry room and ice machines, all contributing to a more comfortable and self-sufficient stay.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the spotless condition of the rooms, often describing them as new, modern, and spacious. The comfortable beds and high-quality linens contribute to a restful sleep, complemented by effective blackout curtains that ensure a dark environment. Clean showers and well-maintained Keurig machines are also frequently noted. While most find the noise levels to be low, some guests report issues with a persistent loud fan or vent that cannot be turned off, and a few mention unadjustable TV volume or connectivity problems. Isolated incidents of initial cleanliness issues or exposed metal on bed frames were reported, with one guest noting a safety concern.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast consistently receives high praise for its quality, variety, and generous offerings, making it a standout feature for many guests. Reviewers frequently highlight the selection of hot breakfast items, including eggs, sausages, and bacon, along with the popular pancake machine that delights families. Many appreciate the availability of gluten-free options and the provision of real cutlery, a welcome change from disposable alternatives. While the breakfast area is generally well-stocked, some guests occasionally experienced items running out during peak times, though staff were often quick to replenish. The coffee is generally well-regarded, and fresh coffee and tea are often available throughout the day, ensuring a good start to the morning. The hotel does not have an on-site restaurant, but dining options are conveniently located nearby.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly convenient location, often described as central to guests' needs, providing easy access to various local amenities. It is situated close to a casino with dining options, various shopping centers, and other restaurants, making it easy for guests to find entertainment and necessities. Its proximity to the airport and a local hospital makes it particularly suitable for those with specific travel or medical appointments. Guests also appreciate the hotel's accessibility for ski trips to Mt. Washington, serving as a practical base. Ample parking is available on-site, often complimentary, and the presence of numerous EV charging stations further enhances convenience for electric vehicle owners, making it a well-connected and accessible choice.

Staff & Service
The hotel's friendly staff consistently receives high praise for their helpful and attentive demeanor. Guests frequently commend their willingness to go above and beyond, from providing quick check-in and accommodating special requests to offering local knowledge and assistance with transportation. Many reviews highlight the excellent customer service provided, making guests feel welcomed and valued. The staff's approachability and professionalism are noted, contributing positively to the overall experience. The hotel is also recognized for its pet-friendly service and family-friendly service, with staff often praised for their understanding and support for guests traveling with children or pets, even assisting with team gatherings and early morning meal preparations.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of the hotel's room card system, which requires the card to be inserted for in-room power and used for elevator and amenity access, which some find inconvenient, especially when sharing a room. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, though some guests note challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas for pets, and there were mixed comments regarding the handling of noise from children versus pets. Recurring feedback mentions a fixed, low TV volume control that cannot be adjusted, impacting viewing experience. It is important to note that room cleaning is on request and not daily by default, which can lead to confusion if not communicated clearly at check-in. Some guests also reported issues with the early check-out policy and the application of a military discount policy. The hotel also notably features no hot tub.