My motel adventure

After a day like Sunday, all I wanted is a beer and bed.

I arrived at the well-hidden Bloomington EconoLodge after midnight. I was stuck waiting behind the world's chattiest guy ("I've spent all day in a truck by myself"). When I was finally able to check in, I was informed that the key making machine wasn't working, and that Scott (who hadn't washed his hair yet this year) would let me into my room. I had planned on getting the key, and then finding something to drink. He pointed me to the vending machines, which were entirely sold out of non-caffeinated beverages. I had to drive across town to the Kroger to get something to drink. And to stand in a long line of college kids. I never came so close to shoplifting in my life. When I got back to the motel, I found my door propped open, so Unwashed Scott didn't have to shuffle over. I was so tired I didn't even realise how hugely unsafe that was. I cranked the heat, took off my shoes and climbed into bed without even changing into PJs.

The next morning I was unable to enjoy their complimentary breakfast, because I didn't want to get locked out of my room. When I went to pee, I found that the bathroom light was out. When I went to call the desk, I found that the phone didn't work. Grumpily, I peed in the dark and walked over to the desk. The huge and unhelpful lady said I could use the lobby phone (not helpful, especially since I had to call the insurance, and didn't wish to discuss the details with the rest of the lobby). She sent a maintanence guy to change the phone and light bulb, which meant I couldn't get dressed.

With a new/old phone, I called the insurance adjuster, who is really hard to get a hold of. Realised that my phone was dying and I brought the wrong cord, so I tried to charge it off my laptop. Only to discover, when I plugged in my laptop, that the outlet didn't work. (I tried the lamp to trouble-shoot). So I had to plug everything in by the sink. Couldn't even have a cup of coffee because there was hair in the reservoir.

(now picture nothing working)

I got a key about 10 minutes before I left. Waited another 7 minutes because Huge Lady wasn't there to check me out. Which only irritated me further, and made me late. And for my troubles, she offered me a measly 15% off.

I have burned off one of my vitriolic letters to customer service. However, EconoLodge is pretty cagey about giving you their address. Maybe I should just go straight to the BBB.

I never realised that I was high-maintenance. Or that wanting my own damn key was such an odd request. I'd say I brought this upon myself for being cheap, but all the motels in town are either $35 or $105.

And I'm still waiting for that beer.

on Pandora: "Silence" - Gomez