Yakima vacation: hotel review

Had a pleasant late summertime vacation. Went to soak in some sun.  Stayed at the Howard Johnson’s in Yakima.  It is right next to the highway, a Wal-Mart and a Target. Quite useful for us as I “surprised” the family by reserving for two-nights while they thought to pack for just one! No one listens to me here. The time here was spent by the kids in the pool – nice one. Super crowded on one day and almost empty the next. The morning of the checkout the pool (10 to 10) was not open as it was undergoing a major cleaning – a disappointment for the younger kid. The service staff are very friendly and helpful.  Provided goo suggestions for restaurants.

Check-in was a major problem.  Was it Expedia’s fault more than the hotel? Reserved two rooms and wanted adjoining rooms with a connecting door.  Made this request multiple times.  First called the hotel to check if this was possible.  Then called and made the reservation over Expedia – who sent the hotel a fax with the request. Called the hotel to reconfirm this that same night and the day of the check-in as we drove there. Was reassured that all would be taken care of.  Once we got there all such information seemed to have disappeared from the collective conscious! After a fairly long time was told we could have such rooms in the next building further away from the pool. Declined.  Given adjoining rooms with no connecting doors. Worked out fine this time expect for having to go from room to room each time was a bit of a hassle that we did not want. The breakfast included scrambled eggs and hash browns (despite being labeled continental) was a bonus. A little dumpy the room, but the staff allowed people to come in a bit later than the advertised closing time (unlike other places we have stayed in).

The rates were unbelievably good that made it possible to get two rooms rather than pack 5 of us into one room with a rollaway bed. These rates were only available on the web and was significantly higher when I called the hotel directly – the staff directed me to book on the web!  Two queen size beds in each room.  The mattress coils are perhaps past their prime.  The fridge did not work in one of the rooms.  The AC is the loudest thing to go on and off.  The kids mildly suggested the first night that they did not sleep well.

The area nearby with the trips to the WA state Wineries was fabulous.  The drive along Hwy12 was scenic.

Would certainly stay there again.