Comfort Inn & Suites

Situated in a standard rectangular, five-story building, this Comfort Inn & Suites looks like most other properties in the value chain. Upon entering the hotel, the lobby feels like a warm living room, with an overstuffed couch, dark wood laminate floors, bookshelves, a fireplace, and carpeted stairs that lead up to the second floor. There is a TV in the breakfast area and a fireplace, though it's not nearly as cozy as the hotel's lobby. The hotel hosts a fair share of business guests and has a couple of large meeting rooms equipped with presentation equipment as well as a banquet room for larger events. Convenient airport access also makes this a stopover for leisure travelers on the way home from the beach or other local attractions.

This hotel is located on a small street off of Northampton Road, near I-64. Northampton Road is a busy street featuring many value hotels, motels, and lots of chain restaurants. The Wingate by Wyndham hotel neighbors the property on one side and a Starbucks is located on the other. There is a McDonald's across the street along with other options for a quick bite, but not much else within easy walking distance. Downtown Norfolk is a 12-minute drive away, while Virginia Beach's shore and boardwalk take at least 20 minutes to reach by car. Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens are 45 minutes to an hour away, while Norfolk International Airport is a 10-minute drive (or free shuttle ride) from the hotel.

As with most properties in this budget chain, rooms are virtually identical. They are spacious and homey -- with chunky striped armchairs, diamond-pattered carpeting, and mid-tone wood furniture -- but somewhat dark and a bit dated. We did spot the occasional carpet stain when we visited, and mismatched patterns don't make the best impression, stylistically speaking, but the rooms are a fine base for those in transit who need a reliably clean place to sleep at night. The appliances are modern, however, and all rooms come with a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi access, a microwave, large mini-fridge, and coffeemaker. Suites have a second TV in the living area, which is separate from the bedroom. Bathrooms are spacious and bright, with long, speckled granite countertops and shower/tub combos.

In addition to a free airport shuttle to and from Norfolk Airport, free outdoor parking, free Wi-Fi access in rooms and throughout the property, this Comfort Inn also offers a free hot breakfast buffet with eggs and waffles. There is an indoor pool and a fitness room with a few cardio options and a universal pulley machine. The property also has a computer corner plus meeting rooms and banquet space available for events. A small market stand in the lobby sells snacks and travel necessities, though there is no bar or full-service restaurant on-site.