I stayed at the Holiday Inn Express in Elgin TX for a night on business. All in all, a respectable location, with a few service flaws. Based on the Holiday Inn website saying that this is a "brand new" hotel, I chose it over the Bastrop location, even though it was out of my way. Though there was nothing overtly wrong with this location, but after seeing the condition of the hotel found out that it was built in 2002 - not exactly what I would call brand new! They also claim on their website that they are near downtown Austin….well not really, but I know the area well, and know better than that.(They are about 30+ miles away.) They have a great base property, and with a bit more care could make the place shine.

Overall, the hotel seems to be well kept, possibly since they appear to be going through a remodel. The lobby area is nice, and though there is only one elevator, the hotel is small enough for that elevator to accommodate the guests without a wait. It appears that the rooms have been recently updated with newer carpet and fresh paint. The hallway on the second floor reeked of mold, along with a big hole (my foot sunk 2-3" into the carpet) in the floor, but my room was just fine in that aspect. In the morning they had a pine scent in the hallway - so they must know about the mold.

As for the room, the bed was a bit worn out to where you could feel the springs, but I got a good nights sleep so no problem there. The overall cleanliness of the room left quite a bit to be desired. There
were food crumbs, peanut shells, a toothpick, and a few bugs visible on the floor. Coffee was spilled on the countertop and left, and the fridge had food remnants. The bathroom had cobwebs with bugs in several places. (Maybe it was a halloween decoration <G>)It is a shame to see a recently remodeled place not be kept in top condition by housekeeping - the owner invests funds in updating, why not ensure
its kept that way.

The shining star of the location was the young lady who was the night
clerk. Her bubbly personality on my late arrival was a nice breath of fresh air. She was prompt, efficient, friendly, and upgraded me to a suite for no additional charge. I wish all hotel clerks were professional.

The morning service leaves a bit to be desired, even in comparison to other Holiday Inn Expresses. They have some cereal, packaged Danish/muffins, cold hard boiled eggs, and the signature HI Express cinnamon rolls. They had no fruit or yogurt at all. Also, this location is the first that I have found that does not provide a morning newspaper, nor do they slide your bill under your door at night, so you have to go through checking out at the front desk. Little things, but noticed none the less.

The hotel has a small but nice pool area are out back, comfortable breakfast area, and a tiny barely adequate workout facility. (One Treadmill, elliptical, and bike - that’s it.) There are some choices for meals around, but you will find enough. In easy walking distance is a McDonalds, Mexican, Subway, Taco Bell, and a local BBQ joint.