Hotéis Econo Lodge em Barstow

It is always interesting to read recent reviews of hotels that one has also stayed at, to compare impressions. One recent one of this place was rather negative, and I can understand why, even though I don't agree. If that same person had stayed here several times over the past decade, as I have, they might have seen things differently. This is so much nicer now, under new ownership. Lots of new paint, new appliances, new carpet... lighting is still a bit of an issue, but they have plans to work on that. I don't get the comment about no storage: two drawers are right under the TV, and the closet is a walk-in! Lots of room in the bathroom and the shower is big, and the water is hot. I used the lighted make-up table as a work area: more than ample. The bed has firm without being rock-hard: perfect for my back. Thin walls, of course, but I already knew that from previous visits. Breakfast used to be in the lobby, and it was only coffee, OJ, cereal and pastries. Now there is a cafeteria, with cereal, coffee, milk and juices, a waffle maker, sausages, eggs (they come out square, but that's what they are), fresh fruit, bread and bagels for toasting, ”donettes”... so much more filling and nourishing than before. And there are plenty of nearby places to eat, if one prefers. Bottom line: the new owners appear to have done their homework on this motel. They saw the potential and did some immediate work to make it more attractive on the outside, as well as did some nice upgrades inside, while keeping to the basic Econo Lodge rates. They told me that they have more work planned, and they listened to my suggestions and comments. At about $50 a night (including taxes), I don't expect concierge service, but I really think that I got excellent value this trip, and several others staying here while I was had the same thing to say. I give this five stars on the ”budget lodgings” scale.