by Marco Fiori

Created on: September 05, 2009   Last Updated: September 06, 2009

Having finally deciding to travel to the US for five weeks, it was obvious that budget would be the major issue in the trip's planning. We didn't want to go down the hostel route, but on the other hand, we didn't have the cash to splash out on luxury hotels. Washington D.C. was our mid-trip stop and we finally settled on the well known chain, Days Inn, for our three nights in the capital.

Settling for a standard room with two double beds and a private bathroom, the rate, because booked four months in advance, was extremely reasonable. Situated in the NW sector of the city, it meant that the hotel was in a pleasant area. Its surroundings were middle class residential housing and university halls - something that surprisingly didn't cause a problem. In fact, the locality of the universities meant that weekday nightlife was surprisingly active - perfect for our 20-something nature.

The hotel is also two blocks down from the Metro, (which runs to 12pm), allowing for easy access of downtown Washington. On top of that, two stops from the hotel was the Smithsonian National Zoo, a free-to-enter complex with Panda Bears, a Komodo Dragon, Elephants and countless other animals. We would highly recommend this Days Inn if you're a family on a budget on this factor alone.

The hotel itself isn't anything to look at from the outside, but inside you are welcomed by cheery, helpful staff which possess good local knowledge. They know where's good to eat, drink or simply relax. The lobby's clean and has free access to the internet via PC's / Wireless - something we found helpful for planning our days and a rarity in American hotels.

Safety was top of our priorities and the Days Inn didn't disappoint. To access any floors with rooms you need your key card. There are electronic safes in all the rooms (for a small surcharge), and late at night you can't even enter the hotel without your room key.

The rooms were spacious with good furnishings. Cable TV, an in-room ironing board, a clean bathroom and plenty of space to put your clothes meant all our needs were catered for. The hotel itself doesn't have catering facilities, but they have partnered with a decent Italian restaurant next door. If Mediterranean isn't up your street, there are plenty of other eateries in close-walking distance.

Overall, it's the perfect hotel for the price that you'll pay. We'd highly recommend it to anyone who wants a comfortable stay at a good price.

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