I booked this hotel the day before the previous, damning review was published. I did look into getting an alternative hotel but the whole of Calgary seemed to be booked up by attendees of various conferences so I stuck with The Pointe Inn and kept my fingers crossed.

My primary goals in booking this hotel were to provide a bed for a few hours sleep and then allow easy access to the airport, by car, for an early flight. These goals were matched, if you can count 15 minutes drive as being "near to the airport", but I cannot say I enjoyed my stay. Being handed a TV remote when you check in is never a good sign to start with.

The room was basic and the beds were comfortable enough. The bathroom was fine too. The whole hotel just felt a bit shabby and uncared for however. We ate at the Dennys next door since we needed an early night and did not want to go far. The hotel does have a bar that serves food but we decided not to risk it.

The neighbourhood is unappealing and the hotel gets part of its revenue from being an overnight truck stop. Within one block, there are two gas stations, one sports bar and two liquor stores, one of those closed down. It's a rough area with a few questionable characters hanging around, some of whom appeared to be staying at the hotel. That said, I never felt threatened just uneasy.

As we left early in the morning, at 4AM, a hotel resident was on the phone to reception to complain about somebody banging on their door incessantly. The staff, who had been efficient without being helpful, didn't seem perturbed or surprised by this incident.

We had not felt too comfortable leaving our rental car in the car park but nothing had happened to it. Before leaving the area, we filled up with gas and the attendant told us how his store had been robbed during the night. No money was stolen and no violence was involved but two different people had come in, abused him and taken food. More pathetic than worrying but a good indicator of the area I believe.

Overall, The Pointe Inn was a grim experience. Consider it only as a last resort.