Emerald Hotel & Suites Calgary Airport

This hotel is undergoing significant renovations, which are frequently mentioned by guests, though the quality and completeness of these updates receive mixed feedback. Its affordability and pet-friendly policy are notable aspects, making it a choice for budget-conscious travelers and pet owners seeking value near the airport. Many guests highlight the exceptional friendliness and helpfulness of the staff as a major positive. However, recurring themes in reviews point to significant challenges with cleanliness, pervasive noise issues, and concerns regarding the surrounding area. For travelers prioritizing a low-cost stay, it is advisable to inspect the room upon arrival and request a change if needed, and to be mindful of the hotel's immediate vicinity.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel is currently undergoing renovations, which impact various facilities. Guests frequently report issues with the elevators, often finding only one to be operational, and noting them as dirty or damaged. Despite these challenges, the Wi-Fi generally receives positive feedback for its reliability. Many rooms are equipped with a microwave and mini-fridge, which guests appreciate for convenience. A coffee maker is typically available in rooms, though its functionality or replenishment can be inconsistent. While parking is available and free, some guests describe the lot as having a questionable atmosphere. The presence of vending machines is noted, but their functionality can be limited.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Cleanliness is a significant and frequently criticized aspect of the guest experience. Many rooms are described as dirty, with common complaints including hair in the tub and on sheets, various stains on surfaces, and pervasive dust. A strong, unpleasant smell, often of cigarettes, mustiness, or even cannabis, is a recurring issue in both rooms and hallways. Guests often find beds to be uncomfortable, citing hard mattresses or feeling springs, and note that pillows are small or inadequate. Noise is a major concern due to thin walls, allowing sounds from neighboring rooms, hallways, and even construction to be easily heard, frequently disrupting sleep. Bathrooms are often reported as unclean, lacking facecloths, having low water pressure, or featuring broken fixtures.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback regarding dining options is predominantly negative, particularly concerning breakfast. Many guests express disappointment, stating that the advertised breakfast is either non-existent or consists of a very basic, pre-packaged offering, such as cold toast, a piece of fruit, and a juice box, often described as unappetizing or "a bad joke." There is an on-site restaurant, but reviews are mixed, with some mentioning it being closed early or having specific cultural banquets, while others note the presence of East Indian music. Some guests have found the food quality from the restaurant to be satisfactory, but the overall impression of the hotel's dining experience is largely unfavorable.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is often highlighted for its convenience, being within walking distance to the light rail system, various restaurants, and shopping areas like Sunridge Mall. It is also noted for its proximity to the airport, though a 20-minute drive is typically required. However, the surrounding area is a frequent source of concern for guests, often described as "sketchy" or "unsafe," with visible police presence and the presence of "undesirables" or "shady characters" around the property. While parking is available and free, its perceived safety can be an issue for some visitors due to the atmosphere of the vicinity.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise from guests, with many reviews highlighting their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature. The check-in process is generally described as smooth and efficient. However, housekeeping is a significant area of concern; many guests report that rooms are not cleaned daily, requiring explicit requests for service or fresh towels, which are not always fulfilled promptly. Issues with deposit refunds are also frequently mentioned, with guests experiencing delays or unexpected charges. Despite these operational shortcomings, the positive interactions with the staff are a recurring theme, often mitigating other negative aspects of the stay.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by guests traveling with animals, and notably, there is no additional charge for pets. The property is undergoing ongoing renovations, which can lead to some inconvenience, such as noise or unfinished areas, but also suggests efforts towards improvement. Guests frequently encounter issues with the deposit policy, including high amounts and difficulties in securing timely refunds. A noticeable police presence around the property is mentioned in multiple reviews, contributing to some guests' perceptions of the area. Furthermore, some guests report misleading advertising, particularly regarding the quality of the rooms shown in online pictures and the inclusion of breakfast.