HVI has a great location for Wickford at a decent price over Expedia. Upon arrival, there were signs of outside renovation work, but peeling paint, faded parking lines and overgrown landscaping was off putting. The check-in was expedient but emphasis on a security deposit for smoking and pets created suspicions on their clientele. I parked in front of my room. When I entered,I was struck by the proximity of the bed to the door and a stuffy first impression (on alert from smoking and pet disclaimers no doubt). I wondered about room security with the door lacking a jam bar or peep hole plus a chest high bathroom window open to a vacant back lawn. The walls were thin, so much so I could hear boxy voices from above maybe?? Once I turned on the A/C unit, the white noise really helped. The room was clean and well-appointed with many thoughtful touches for a comfortable, if not luxurious, stay. I slept well with no guest or traffic noise to speak of. Breakfast at the restaurant next door was quite good. Checkout was unusual with the front desk clerk being “on property”, but once I called the posted phone number she appeared right away.
This property feels like a family run beach motel, not a corporate hotel chain, that is gradually undertaking improvements after years of neglect. Where they have prioritized improvements thus far (inside the room) was what meant the most for my comfortable stay. Older properties need lots of love…still a long way to go on curb appeal.
