Motel Madness

     When AvNell and I moved to Washington State from Kansas last June we travelled through seven states and stayed in several motels on our journey west. Some were much better than others.
     We found that independently owned, mom and pop motels, were by far a better choice. The folks in these establishments were friendlier and more helpful when it came to answering question about area attractions and local eating establishments. The accommodations were generally superior as well, scoring much better in cleanliness and overall maintenance.
     Some of the more popular motel chains such as Super 8 and Rodeway Inn did not fare as well. At a Rodeway Inn for example in Nebraska, there was a note taped to to wall just out the bathroom that said it was necessary to crack open the bathroom window at least an inch when showering otherwise the smoke detector would sound an alarm. This vintage motel was well worn and could have used a good scrubbing and cleaning.
     AvNell and I are not germaphobic but there is a difference between dingy and just plain dirty. We don't stay in motels for the scenery or the ambiance. Generally we are just looking for a place to get a good night's sleep and to unwind from a day of travel or sightseeing. It should not be too much to ask that the room is at least clean, tidy, and suitable for an overnight stay.
     More recently we stayed at a Super 8 Motel in Olympia, Washington hoping this one would be better than the one we encountered earlier.  AvNell was to have a procedure done at Providence Saint Peter's Hospital and we need a room close to the hospital. We decided to book the room for two nights...the night before the surgery and the night after.
     We arrived on Wednesday afternoon and checked in...the stairway and hall carpeting leading to the third-floor room was stained and dirty. That should have been a clue. The room was no better. The floor had been poorly maintained, the fabric on the chairs was stained and dirty, and there were insects climbing on the table and window for starters. Insects alive and well in January...It didn't get any better.
     The room was cold and for good reason...the heater didn't work properly. And when it was working it made a rumble that drowned out any hope of pleasant passing the time...otherwise it just blew cold air. The bathroom vent screeched like a banshee when engaged and the water pressure in the shower was less than useful. At least the bed was comfortable, but there was no way to get a good night's sleep since the motel sat right next to a busy highway...I'll take responsible for that.
     AvNell had her procedure the following morning and was cleared to go home. We decided to forgo a second night at the Super 8. The thought of being in an unpleasant room just wasn't worth it. I'm sure we will be staying overnight in Olympia again and plan to travel the Pacific Northwest in the coming months but it's safe to say we won't be lodging in a Super 8 or with any motel chain if we can help it.
     It is unfortunate that some of the chain motels haven't taken the cue from their independent owned counterparts and improved or at least maintained their stead. Motels are becoming part of a shrinking piece of Americana.  When I was a kid I enjoyed being on the road for family vacations and staying in places like Deadwood, Cheyenne, and Pawnee City.
     It's a shame that motels are joining the ranks and falling prey to a culture that seem Hell-bent on becoming another causality of our ever increasing Disposable Society.