After driving nearly 20 hours from Southern California to Dallas, I was met with an unexpectedly unpleasant welcome at Hilton’s Home2 Suites. I chose this hotel because I’ve consistently had positive experiences with Hilton, but this stay fell far short of their usual standards.
Upon check-in, I greeted the front desk clerk with a cheerful “Good evening,” only to be met with a dry, dismissive “Are you checking in?” Brushing it off, I provided my ID and payment details. The issues began when I tapped my card instead of inserting it. Despite the charge being approved on my end (with confirmation from my bank), the clerk insisted the transaction was declined and became visibly frustrated. Even after I showed proof of the charge and had my bank representative confirm the payment, she refused to accept the transaction ID to verify it in their system. Her manager, Damon, was unhelpful when I finally spoke to him, offering no resolution other than insisting I pay again or find other accommodations.
Exhausted and with no other options, I allowed a second charge to go through, doubling the amount withdrawn from my account. Frustrated, I went to my room (214) only to find myself next to a loud, partying group in room 212. Despite repeated calls to the front desk and a staff visit, the noise continued into the early morning hours, leaving me sleepless and irritated.
The following morning, I spoke to Damon in person,