Holiday Inn Express Van Nuys By Ihg

This hotel is undergoing significant renovations, which are transforming its appearance and amenities, though some areas are still in transition. It is particularly well-suited for business travelers seeking a consistent stay and families or sightseers visiting local attractions like Universal Studios, due to its convenient freeway access. Guests frequently highlight the exceptional friendliness and helpfulness of the staff as a standout feature. While the hotel aims to provide a comfortable experience, guests should be aware of an additional parking fee and consider confirming their room's renovation status upon arrival to ensure it meets their expectations.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel is currently undergoing renovations, with many guests noting updated flooring, wall coverings, and furniture in common areas and some rooms. While these upgrades are appreciated, some facilities have mixed feedback. The fitness center is available, though some guests noted a lack of weights or other equipment. The outdoor pool is a feature, but it has been reported as closed at times. Elevators have occasionally been out of service or in poor condition. Wi-Fi is provided, but several guests experienced slow speeds or poor signal strength in their rooms. Laundry facilities have also been impacted by renovations. A significant point of feedback is the secure parking lot, which is gated and often has security presence, though a daily fee is charged, which many guests found surprising.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is notably mixed. Many guests praise the cleanliness of their rooms, describing them as neat, well-maintained, and recently remodeled with a fresh feel. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, ensuring a good night's rest, and some rooms feature charging ports for convenience. However, a significant number of reviews report issues such as dirty sheets, hair on surfaces, dust accumulation, and even mold in showers. Some bathrooms were noted for lacking fans or having clogged toilets and low water pressure. Noise from adjacent rooms or the nearby freeway was also a concern for some, impacting the overall quietness of the stay. Additionally, some rooms were described as having a musty smell or being generally run down, with peeling wallpaper and stained carpets.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's complimentary breakfast generally receives positive feedback for its variety and quality. Guests appreciate the selection of hot items, which often include eggs, sausage or bacon, biscuits and gravy, and pancakes. Many commend the breakfast attendant for keeping the area clean and food well-stocked. However, during peak hours, some guests reported that popular items, including coffee and specific food options, ran out quickly, and staff struggled to keep up with demand. The pancake maker was frequently reported as broken or out of order. Some guests also noted that the breakfast start time on weekends felt a bit late for those with early departures. Despite these minor issues, the breakfast is largely seen as a valuable and satisfying amenity.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a point of mixed feedback, primarily due to its proximity to the freeway and the surrounding neighborhood. It is considered convenient for its easy access to the freeway and for reaching specific local venues, family, or attractions like Universal Studios, typically within a 20-30 minute drive. However, many guests describe the immediate area as "sketchy" or "rough," particularly in the evenings, leading to concerns about walkability and overall safety outside the property. Despite these external perceptions, the hotel itself is often described as feeling very safe, with secure parking and controlled entry points. The parking facility is ample, though a daily fee is consistently mentioned as a drawback by guests.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receives high praise, with many guests highlighting their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Front desk associates are frequently commended for their welcoming demeanor, quick check-in and check-out processes, and willingness to assist with various requests, from providing extra towels to helping with printing documents. Housekeeping staff are also noted for their efforts in keeping rooms clean and well-maintained. However, some guests experienced issues with staff follow-through on requests, such as addressing maintenance problems or delivering requested items. There were also isolated reports of rude interactions during check-in or when resolving billing discrepancies. Despite these occasional lapses, the overall sentiment is that the staff's dedication to service significantly enhances the guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel implements enhanced security measures, including a gated parking lot and controlled access points, which contribute to a sense of safety within the property. A recurring point of feedback is the parking fee, which is an additional daily charge not always clearly communicated upfront. Some rooms have been noted to lack an in-room phone, requiring guests to use their cell phones for front desk contact. While the hotel is undergoing renovations, some guests reported significant issues such as bed bug infestations in their rooms, which is a serious concern. It is advisable for guests to confirm the availability and functionality of specific amenities like the laundry facilities or gym equipment if these are crucial for their stay.