Escape to Florida Sunshine: Lakeland's Best Western Plus Awaits!
Escape to Florida Sunshine: Lakeland's Best Western Plus - My Unfiltered Take!
Okay, so let's be real. Planning a Florida escape can feel like wrangling alligators sometimes. You're bombarded with choices, and frankly, figuring out where to stay can be a total swamp thing. But then, bam! The Best Western Plus in Lakeland, Florida, popped up on my radar, promising sunshine and… well, the Best Western promise. Let's dive in, shall we? This isn't going to be some glossy brochure review, folks. This is me talking.
Accessibility: The Good and the… Almost Perfect
First things first: Accessibility. This is HIGH on my priority list, and I'm happy to report the Lakeland Best Western seemed to try. They list "Facilities for disabled guests," which is a solid start. (Cue a tiny, hopeful sigh). They also had an elevator, which is a lifesaver, especially when you're lugging suitcases and dreaming of those poolside margaritas. I didn't personally need a wheelchair accessible room, but I did check out the facilities and they seemed…decent. Wide enough hallways, grab bars in the bathrooms. But… and there's always a but, isn't there? I wish there was more concrete information on the site about the real range of their accessible rooms. Could be better, but it’s not a total fail like some places.
Cleanliness & Safety: Germaphobe's Perspective
Here's where they really shined, especially in a post-pandemic world! Let’s be honest, are you really trusting hotels to be clean? This Best Western actually seemed like they took it seriously. They list Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays. They had Hand sanitizer everywhere. And I loved the fact that you could opt-out of room sanitization if you wished. I mean, not everyone needs their room scrubbed down like an operating theatre every day! That's a nice touch. The staff were also wearing masks and seemed generally clued up, so…two thumbs up for making me feel (mostly) at ease!
Dining, Drinking, & Snacking: Fueling the Sunshine State Adventure
Alright, let's talk food. Because, you know, escaping to Florida is partly about stuffing your face.
- Breakfast: They offered a Buffet in restaurant but also had Breakfast takeaway service. They also had Asian breakfast which I didn’t try. The buffet itself was…pretty standard Best Western fare. Waffles, scrambled eggs that may or may not be real eggs, and a questionable selection of pastries. I did manage to snag some decent fruit.
- Restaurants & Lounges: I saw Restaurants - a little one on site, but didn’t get to experience it, so I can't give a super specific review. I did hear a few good things about the Poolside bar; maybe next time?
- Coffee Shop: This was my savior! Morning caffeine craving satisfied. Simple!
Services and Conveniences: The Extras that Matter
- Internet Access: This is essential in our modern lives. And the Free Wi-Fi in all rooms was a lifesaver (and in the lobby and other public areas too!).
- Meeting/Banquet Facilities: I didn't need these on this trip, but the option is there if you're mixing business with your sunshine escape.
- Elevator: Mentioned earlier, but worth repeating. Essential for getting to those higher floors and the promise of better views!
- Convenience Store: This was a small but mighty bonus. Perfect for grabbing a late-night snack or forgotten toiletries.
For the Kids:
Didn't travel with kids on this trip, but the place had Kids Facilities. So, good for the little ankle-biters!
Available in All Rooms: What You Really Get
Let’s be frank: the room is where you spend most of your time (besides the pool, of course!).
- Air Conditioning (essential in Florida, obviously).
- Coffee/Tea Maker: Crucial for those early mornings.
- Refrigerator: Awesome for keeping your drinks cold!
- Wi-Fi [free]: Again, essential.
- Bathroom phone: Let's be honest, who actually uses these?
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Chasing the Perfect Florida Vibe
- Swimming Pool [outdoor]: This was the star of the show for me! Beautiful, sparkling, and perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. Fitness Center: Didn't try it because…vacation. But always good to know it's there.
Getting Around:
- Car park [free of charge]: Parking was easy as pie.
- Airport transfer: Didn't use it, but good to know it was available.
The Good, the Bad, and the Unexpected…My Final Thoughts
Overall, the Best Western Plus in Lakeland was a comfortable and convenient base for my Florida escape. It wasn't perfect – no place is! But it delivered on its promises and offered a solid experience at a reasonable price.
The Stuff That Annoyed Me (Just a Bit):
- The occasional noise from the hallway.
- The slightly-clunky elevator.
Would I Recommend It?
Honestly? Yes. Especially if you're looking for a clean, safe, and convenient place to stay while exploring Lakeland and surrounding areas.
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- Keywords: Lakeland, Florida, Best Western Plus, hotel review, accessibility, cleanliness, swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, family-friendly, budget-friendly, Florida vacation, travel, accommodation.
- Title: Escape to Florida Sunshine: Lakeland's Best Western Plus Awaits! My Honest Review
- Description: A candid and detailed review of the Best Western Plus in Lakeland, Florida, covering everything from accessibility and cleanliness to dining and amenities. Get the real scoop before you book your sunshine escape!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! I'm about to spill the beans on what could be a stay at the Best Western Plus Lakeland (Florida) – if, you know, I were actually going. This ain't your meticulously crafted itinerary; it's the chaotic, caffeine-fueled scribbles of a real human, which is me. Let's do this.
Lakeland, Florida: A Trip (Maybe) to Remember – Or At Least, To Somewhat Recall!
(Disclaimer: This is all hypothetical. I'm writing this from my couch, wearing sweatpants. Don't sue me.)
Day 1: Arrival and the Astonishing Wonder of… a Pool?
- Morning (ish): Okay, so the flight. Let's face it, flying these days is less "glamorous jet-setting" and more "cattle-car with tiny bathrooms." Arriving at the Lakeland airport? Well, let's pray there's a breeze, because Florida humidity is a beast. And I'm not even a fan of the heat, so hopefully, the airport is air-conditioned, properly air-conditioned.
- The Hotel – Best Western Plus Lakeland: Finally! Getting to the hotel is a win. Check-in? Smooth, hopefully. I HATE waiting. If I get stuck behind someone who's got a whole family of questions, I’m going to spontaneously combust. I need that key now so I can get to the AC. Seriously, it is crucial.
- Afternoon: Room? Okay, here’s where things get real. Good bed? Necessary. Clean bathroom? Absolutely. A decent view? Well, ideally, not the dumpster. But let's be real, after a few hours in a tin can, I'll take whatever I can get.
- Mid-Afternoon: The pool. THE POOL! Okay, I know. Pools are a dime a dozen, but hear me out. After the flight, the humidity, a decent pool becomes a beacon of hope. I'm thinking: a decent book, maybe 20 minutes of actual sun, and a cocktail. (Let's hope the hotel bar is decent.) I'd even settle for a lukewarm pool at this point, the sheer thought of immersing myself in water is enticing.
- Evening: Food hunt! Gotta scope out what Lakeland has to offer. I'd check out some local reviews online but I am not the sort of person to do research. A recommendation or two would be handy…but I can get by.
- Evening (Late): The first night in a new city. Bedtime? Or maybe I’ll be up for a nightcap.
Day 2: Lakes, Art, and the Oh-My-God-What-Did-I-Eat Moment.
- Morning: Okay, breakfast. I hope they have decent coffee. I need caffeine, or I will bite someone's head off. Maybe eggs, maybe some fruit. The hotel breakfast is a gamble, but I'm willing to play.
- Late Morning: Lake Morton. I've seen pictures. Swans, right? I'm picturing myself casually admiring the swans like a cultured person. In reality, I'll probably be sweating and trying not to get too close to any potential goose poop situations.
- Lunch: Okay, I'm going to need to locate a good lunch spot. No chains, if possible. I really want to eat somewhere local. Somewhere with character. Again, research? Meh. I'll wing it.
- Afternoon: Fantasy of Flight? Is that still a thing? I'm in this for the kitsch and the spectacle, even if the planes are a bit dusty. I'm not a huge aviation person, but it feels like something I should do, right?
- Mid-Afternoon: This is where things could go sideways. Okay, a delicious-looking whatever. I will most likely order something I've never eaten before, and 80% of the time, I will regret it. But the other 20%? Pure culinary bliss. This is a calculated gamble.
- Evening: Dinner. Where? I'm feeling the need to have a fun, interesting dinner.
- Night: If I'm not already asleep, I'm looking for a bar. The beer selection needs to be decent, and the atmosphere…not too loud. I can deal with loud, but I am a fan of a quiet night.
Day 3: Farewell and the Perpetual Quest for Clean Socks.
- Morning (Again, Depends): Wake up, or roll out of bed after hitting snooze for the third time? I'm an expert. Gotta pack. The most stressful part of any trip. Finding clean socks? An eternal struggle.
- Mid-Morning: Last-minute souvenir hunting. I'm terrible at this. I always end up with some cheesy trinket I'll never use, but darn it, I need something!
- Lunch: The final meal! Gotta make it count. Something I'll remember. Or at least, something that won't give me food poisoning.
- Afternoon: Airport time. The end. The sadness. The joy of returning home. Maybe the flight will be on time? Maybe.
- Evening: Home. Unpack. Laundry. Reflect on the trip. Did I have fun? Probably. Would I do it again? Absolutely. Even with the occasional sock-related crisis.
Final Thoughts:
Lakeland, you've got potential. I'm going in with low expectations and a high tolerance for the unexpected. I'm embracing the chaos, the imperfections, the potential for culinary disasters… and the promise of a decent hotel pool. Wish me luck. And send coffee.
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Hanting Hotel Shijiazhuang Pingshan!
Alright, spill the beans! Is this Best Western Plus in Lakeland really worth a stay? Like, seriously?
Okay, deep breath. Listen, travel writing can be a minefield of fluffy adjectives and forced positivity. But… yeah, for what it *is*, the Best Western Plus in Lakeland? I'd say, yeah, it's pretty solid. Don't expect the Ritz-Carlton, you hear? But for a chill, practical base camp to explore Lakeland and the surrounding area? Absolutely. Think of it as a dependable friend: not necessarily the life of the party, but always there when you need them.
I stayed there last month. Needed a break from the soul-crushing grind and the incessant cat hair. The kind where your brain is screaming, "SUNSHINE, DAMMIT!" And, well, Florida sunshine is certainly delivered.
It's clean, for starters. And that's HUGE! Especially after some experiences I've had... let's just say involving a "boutique" hotel in Prague that smelled faintly of mothballs and regret. This place? Crisp sheets. Enough said.
What's the deal with the location? Is it actually "escape to Florida sunshine" or just… stuck on a busy road?
Okay, so here's the truth about the location. It's… practical. Look, it’s not *on* the beach. Don't go expecting ocean views. You're in Lakeland, a bit inland. But it's close to a lot of things. Close to the I-4 (which, honestly, is both a blessing and a curse – you can *go* places easily, but dealing with Florida traffic is basically a required skill).
It *is* near some decent restaurants and shops, you can find a bunch of local things with a quick car ride, it's not that far to a variety of attractions, like LEGOLAND, which is great if you have kids or… well, even if you *don't*. (Don't judge me! I went without kids and had a blast. The LEGO pirate ship was epic.)
My initial thought upon arriving? "Okay, this isn't exactly postcard-perfect vistas." But honestly, it grew on me. It's convenient. And after a day of exploring, the ease of getting back to the hotel was a huge plus. Especially when you're sunburnt and your feet are screaming.
Let's talk breakfast. Is it the same sad continental breakfast you find everywhere? Because I *hate* those sad, limp muffins.
Okay, breakfast. The MOST important meal, right? Especially when you're fueling up for a day of… well, whatever the heck you're doing in Florida.
Here's my assessment. It's better than the truly awful ones. There's a waffle maker (crucial!), cereals, some fruit, and… wait for it… *sausage links*. Now, I am a woman of simple pleasures, and a warm sausage link with a crispy waffle and a big mug of coffee… that's a good start to the day. Not gourmet, mind you. Not Michelin-star worthy. But good. I was a happy camper.
I have been to a hotel where the "fruit" was literally three shriveled bananas and a suspicious-looking apple. This? Better. Much better. It's a "decent, get-you-going-for-the-day" kind of breakfast. Don't expect a five-star brunch buffet, but they do have decent coffee; because, you know, coffee is basically liquid gold.
Were there any problems? Like, actual problems, not just… minor quibbles?
Okay, honest time. Yes. There was one… *thing.* It wasn't a problem as much as a slightly annoying… situation. One morning, the water pressure in my shower was… well, pathetic. Like a sad little drizzle. I'm talking tears-in-my-eyes, "how am I going to get my hair clean?" pathetic.
I called the front desk. They were super apologetic, sent someone up to fix it quickly, and all was well. But, look, it's a hotel. Stuff breaks. That's life. The staff were good about it, and it was resolved fast, so… not a dealbreaker. Just a slightly damp start to that day.
I would recommend, however using the shower earlier in the morning. Don't be like me! I was trying to be all "sleep in, I'm on vacation!"
Can you get away with booking a last-minute trip? Is it usually booked solid?
I’m not going to lie to you I hate planning. The thought of having to schedule even the most basic things makes me want to… well, be somewhere else. Generally speaking, the Best Western Plus in Lakeland *is* a pretty popular location, especially during peak season. But I have seen availability pop up last minute.
It really depends on the time of year and how lucky you are. Weekends and holidays are probably a gamble. Mid-week, you might have better luck, or off-season (but then, weather is a factor). Maybe call ahead to be safe? I'm the worst person to ask about this. I basically roll into places with zero preparation and hope for the best.
Any advice on the rooms? Are there good views? Should I pay extra for a specific room type?
Views? Nah. Don't expect panoramic vistas. You're likely looking out at… well, more buildings. Practical, remember?
Room type? Depends on your priorities. The standard rooms are perfectly fine. Clean, comfortable. If you’re traveling with a family or a group, a suite might be worthwhile for the extra space. Honestly, I just went with the cheapest room and it worked out great. But if you're the kind of person who *needs* space to spread out, maybe consider it. But again, don't expect the Taj Mahal. It's a solid, comfortable room. I would recommend asking for a room on the upper floor if noise is an issue, as some of the rooms can get a little noisy.
Okay, so, the pool. Is it a sad, chlorine-smelling puddle, or a legit place to relax? (I REALLY care about the pool.)
Alright. THE POOL. This is important. Because let's be honest, a good pool can make or break a Florida experience. And I’m not going to lie to you, the Best Western's pool? It’s… pleasant. Not Olympic-sized. Not particularly breathtaking. But it’s clean, well-maintained, and the water wasSleep Stop Guide
