Hotel Holiday Inn Express di Easton

The new standard in economy business lodging. I had stayed at this hotel a few years ago, and when I arrived this time I didn’t recognize the place. I mean, it was literally unrecognizable! Turns out they had torn it down and rebuilt it as the prototype of the new national model for the Holiday Inn Express chain. This is the toughest market segment: you have to be comfortable enough to satisfy the experienced business traveler, but still keep the price competitive. Anyone can be amazing at $300/night. It takes a great deal of planning and execution to be amazing at $115/night. It has the usual clean, non-smoking rooms, with the usual amenities: mini-fridge, coffee maker, TV, etc. But the similarities end there. The ambient lighting system is relaxing and much less harsh than the usual overhead fluorescent systems. The carpet is a tad thicker; the sheets, blankets, pillows and towels a couple of levels higher in quality than one expects. The power outlets have been redesigned to add USB charging ports for numerous devices, and the rooms are much more soundproofed than usual for this price point. They’ve done away with the usual extra table, so there’s now room to turn the luggage trolley around inside the room. Even the lobby has been redesigned to be more open and inviting, with the elevators, breakfast buffet and swimming pool easy to find. The staff was friendly and willing to go the extra mile to make sure I was comfortable, had all the supplies needed and my questions were answered. This is now my go to place in Easton for business travel. Highly recommended.