Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portsmouth

"I was surprised of the conditions of this hotel. Being my 1st time in HJ, I had low expectations but this property has been kept up pretty well. Going into the room, it had an old-building smell. Yak! The walls were tick and we didn't hear much noise from the guests in the next-door rooms. However, the doors don't block much of the noise in the hallway. those that travel often, one would know that's is rare to find as newer buildings have paper-thin walls. The room was small but had a good layout, the beds were comfortable, and the room was clean and good decor. The room came with a mini-fridge, microwave and a tiny coffee maker. The bathroom floors had old tiles but the shower and counter seemed that they've been remodeled but with low end fixtures. Some of the towels were average size and soft but when they replace them, they brought small, rougher textute. The bed sheets were soft. The A/C unit was not noisy which is rare to find in this type of economy hotels. I wouldn't keep my hopes up on the breakfast. The breakfast area is very, very small. They essentially had bread, some yogurts and cereal. No fruits, eggs, waffles, oatmeal or juices. Just bare minimum. The front desk and housekeeping staff was really nice and polite at all times. Even though the hotel was 99% occupied, we asked to change our rooms and they helped find a better room for us. The hotel is literally next to a highway. Less than 50 yards from the highway. The windows are not noise insulated so you hear every single vehicle. I had a hard time falling asleep and at 3AM was awaken by a truck and wasn't able to go back to sleep due to the traffic noise. So if you staying at this hotel and you're not a heavy sleeper, ask for a room on the other side of the property or stay at a different hotel. The proximity to the highway is insanely close. The gym was not a big deal. Two basic treadmills and a cross trainer. There are many good restaurants and coffee shops within a short drive. Although the property doesn't provide high-tech features and just basic commodities, (the door key had to be swipe instead of tap, the side doors are only for exit, the lobby is very small), the room was ok. Security wise, I felt a bit unsafe at night. Someone tried to get into our room both nights in the middle of the night. Thank God we had both the dead bolt and upper lock on. For $150 a night, we could've stayed at a near by Hampton Inn for a bit much better experience and quality."

"This place was great - especially Michael! I called & explained that I completely understand the reason for the hours between 11 & 3 check out/in times, but I was wondering if there was any chance I could check in early because I had been out shopping & fell. His 1st words were, "Oh my gosh, are you ok?" I said I was. He said that they hadn't had a full night the night before, & my room was available. He was nice & incredibly helpful. The room was clean & very comfortable. My daughter & I have worked in the hospitality industry for years. We know how things are supposed to be run. We were pleased! If we are ever back in that area again, we will be back!"

"We stayed here one night here for an event in town. I was pleasantly surprised with the cleanliness of the room. It was spotless! The king size bed was comfortable, however the pillows were your standard small, foam pillows, yet adequate. I had brought my own. The check-in process was quick and smooth and the front desk manager Michael was very professional and efficient. The continental breakfast was the usual coffee, toast, cereal, muffins etc. However, I believe they also offered microwaveable breakfast sandwiches but I didn't try one. The location is right off the highway and very convenient. I would definitely recommend this place. And, when I got home I was also very pleased to find out that my Wyndham reward points had been added to my account very quickly!"

"This is a very nice hotel. Obviously, it was a well cared for property that had then been totally updated and modernized recently. The room was attractively decorated, clean, conformable, and quiet.The location was close to everything. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The breakfast included egg, cheese, sausage biscuits and was much nicer than the normal continental breakfast. This was a great bargain."