Hotel Budget Inn Pinellas Park (Pinellas Park, USA)

Look around at the competition and appreciate how cheap this inn really is. Yes, there are some rough edges, but rather than dwell on these, it's best to consider the many pluses. It's also close to shops and not far from the beaches, so that's good, too.

Breakfast is 'free' and of the expected standard and the Mexican restaurant, just off the lobby area, is a welcome facility. There are plenty of alternatives nearby, including Chili's and BJ's American cuisine restaurant.

There are always exceptions but staff here are, generally, very pleasant and helpful. It does make a difference to the success of your visit.

Some of the staff can be downright rude when faced with a valid complaint. There are also some very iffy characters that are obviously well established and staying here as long term residents. This leads to a sense of unease and a possible threat to personal safety.

This place isn't clean and there is a nasty smell throughout which has obviously built up over a period of time with no sign of going away any time soon. Needless to say, cockroaches are well in evidence throughout.

There's no excuse for dirt and grime, even in the cheapest of hotels. Here, walls are stained, curtains should have been thrown out years ago, there are holes in walls and reasonable decoration, as such, is virtually non-existent. We all want a good financial bargain but, sometimes, as in this instance, it's best to pay a bit extra for a better deal somewhere else and enjoy some peace of mind.