Candlewood Suites Charleston-Northwoods, an IHG Hotel (North Charleston, USA)

The convenient location of this hotel is all the better if you're a shopaholic, since Northwoods Mall is practically next door. In addition to shops, it has a wide choice of restaurants, helpful if you don't want to cook for yourself. Plus, it's just off I-26, offering easy access for road-trippers.

All suites and studios are comfortably fitted out, with the larger family suites offering full living areas where the kids can crash on the sofa with a DVD. All rooms have a kitchenette, with all the basics, like a coffee maker and fridge. It means that it feels like a home from home, with all the modern comforts you might need.

Guests comment on the friendliness of the staff, who go out of their way to meet requests and ensure that you have a comfy, contented stay. Whether you need extra bedding and towels, or you have an issue in your room, it can all be sorted quickly and efficiently here.

It's worth being aware that this hotel has limited additional facilities, and there's no pool, so if you're looking for a large leisure hotel, this one might not suit you. Some guests seem to arrive expecting a pool, and are therefore disappointed on arrival.

Once in your suite, you'll be pretty much left to your own devices, which is great if you're after a quiet, private stay for you and your family. However, it means that housekeeping only happens once a week or on check-out, so if you need cleaning or fresh towels in between, you'll have to ask for it.

Because all guests have kitchen facilities within their rooms, Candlewood Suites I-26 Northwoods Mall doesn't provide breakfast. Especially if you're just on an overnight stay and don't want to buy in your own food, this can be inconvenient, though there are places to eat at the mall nearby.