It was easy to get there from John Wayne(OC) Airport, especially making use of the complimentary shuttle. I have even visited before from LAX - self-drive, and the hotel is situated centrally in the heart of OC. It has a welcoming exterior, simple, in keeping with Travelodge, but cared for and tended.
I was greeted in the lobby with pleasant efficiency and nothing was too much trouble. This would probably be the perfect hub for business trips too. But I was on holiday. Walking passed the pools to my room, the water looked clean and inviting.

My room was ambient; someone had designed it 'home-from-home', it seemed just for me, and the message read that if anything was lacking they would do their utmost to rectify it. I found nothing however was lacking: It was perfectly comfortable (dare I say upmarket for a Travelodge) - I was quite taken aback by the thoughtful attention to detail and amenities, and I felt safe.
The breakfast was simple and well considered. Not just a pile of donuts, but fresh juice and fruit, coffee, cereals and breads and English muffins to toast.
At night I could walk a few yards to a choice of lively local eateries, or take a short drive to the bustling bars and bistros on Newport Coast.
The hotel is convenient for the classy shopping malls, (Spectrum, Fashion Island and South Coast Plaza) and a couple of trendy, funky 'anti-malls' are really close by...worth a look!

There are beautiful Soca golf courses - one backing onto the hotel, - and all manner of visitor attractions locally, including Disneyland and Universal. I had easy access to the freeways, South to San Diego, East to the Coacella Valley Desert, North to downtown LA, or a short hop West to the glorious coastal villages which cater for chic and surf alike!

Now don't get me wrong, - we are not looking at the elite, top-notch, dollar-guzzling end of the market; - this is not a five star, plush, marbled, palace...but it certainly aspires to be one, and should have five stars for effort! So for comfort, care, cleanliness, convenience and considerable value I would award this particular unique Travelodge an A+ *.