On a recent business trip to the Chicago area, I stayed at the Staybridge Suites in Oakland Terrace after my company reserved a room for me there.

The location is convenient but travelers, but the positives end there. I was most disappointed in all respects and would not recommend this hotel under any condition.

First, the hotel is essentially a Fairfield Inn aimed for extended stay business travelers. But unlike most hotels, there is no swimming pool. There is a hot tub, but it’s located outside, which means it can only be used for a few months out of the year. (An indoor pool, hot tub and sauna would vastly improve this hotel.) Additionally, the fitness center is rather small and most of the room is set aside for laundry facilities.

There is a complimentary hot breakfast in the morning, but most of the hot items (eggs, bacon, etc.) are low-quality food that were likely microwaved, as I didn’t see an on-site kitchen. In the evenings on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, there is a complimentary happy hour reception, but the choices are rather limited.

The rooms are clean and comfortable, but the housekeeping service is spotty and only provides a “light” service during the week. There is no service whatsoever on weekends.

On the weekend, I saw empty pizza boxes sitting in the hallways outside guest rooms for two days. I also observed dog poop in the public spaces, as the hotel allows guests to bring pets.

The internet connection is incredibly slow and very unreliable, which is one of the hotel’s biggest downfalls. Even the business center’s wired internet connection is very, very slow.

One more thing: I am a Priority Club member and received no special recognition. No morning newspaper. Nothing.

With several competing hotels nearby (Holiday Inn, Marriott and others), I cannot recommend the Staybridge Suites.