Seeking value and convenience on my trip to and from Hendersonville, North Carolina, I was impressed by the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites in Hardeeville, South Carolina. So much so that I booked on three separate occasions over 25 days.

For the last several years, I've taken my daughter's to summer camp in the mountains of North Carolina. That means a road trip from Vero Beach, Florida, to Hendersonville. Dropping them off, I typically drive straight through. Picking them up, I usually stop along the way - typically in the Savannah, Georgia area. My kids like to shop and since it's almost "back to school" time, we stop at the outlet shops in Pooler.

After dropping my kids off this year, I decided to stop for the night. It was raining non-stop the entire way and - quite frankly - I was tired with all the stop and go traffic. Seeking "value and convenience," I found the Econo Lodge online through a third-party booking service. At an embarrassing low rate, I booked before the website adjusted that rate. The 4 a.m. start time for "free breakfast" was especially alluring.

A mere 15 minutes after booking online, I arrived at the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites. Just west of Interstate 95 on the north side of the street, they advertise themselves as being the newest hotel in Hardeeville. They also host a nightly fresh baked cookie and popcorn social hour.

Joanna - the front desk clerk - was friendly, polite, and quickly booked me into a first floor room. It was still pouring rain and I wanted something close to my vehicle. Joanna was able to accommodate, while pointing out the 4 a.m. breakfast with dozens of different options available.

Room was clean and comfortable with a microwave oven, min-fridge, and coffee maker. Bed was firm and clean. While it's not a luxury hotel, this Econo Lodge provided many unexpected amenities. Comfort, convenience, and value rank high with management. They even have a massage chair in the lobby for those tired and weary.

Breakfast was early as promised. Still raining, I enjoyed piping hot coffee, orange juice, eggs, bacon, and a cinnamon roll. Many selections to choose from - my only complaint would be the fruit seemed to be from a can versus fresh. No other issues and I checked out before 6 a.m. - on the road back to the Sunshine State.

Three weeks later, I found myself booking again at the Econo Lodge. This time coming from Fort Lauderdale, I spent a Wednesday night in Hardeeville. Pick up at camp was early Friday and I was in no particular rush.

Fast, friendly and efficient, Sarah - the desk clerk - quickly booked me into a room. Advising on breakfast and other available amenities, I mentioned my recent stay and that although I was checking out on Thursday, I would be back - with kids - late Friday.

Breakfast early Thursday - including piping hot coffee - I sneaked it "to go" as I would rather drive and eat than leisurely eat and waste time in a hotel lobby.

Back on Friday with kids, we were checked in by Sarah to a second floor room with double beds. It was comfortable and clean. When quizzed about area restaurants, Sarah was more than helpful offering several suggestions. When returning from dinner, Sarah offered them fresh cookies, having saved some in a display case.

Breakfast early Saturday, my kids ate well - pointing out that everything was fine except the canned fruit. It seems we shared the same opinion with regard to the fruit. Coffee, bacon and eggs for me.

Three separate "stays" in a 25 day period - no issues whatsoever. While the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Hardeeville is far from a luxury hotel it offers value, convenience and is family friendly.

A strong 4 stars - I would book again.

William E. Lewis Jr.
Vero Beach, Florida.