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What started as a simple plan to save money quickly turned into an unsettling experience for a college student from Texas. While organizing a short trip with friends to attend a concert in San Marcos, the student chose an inexpensive hotel option found on a third-party booking platform. The listing showed favorable reviews, and the hotel brand was unfamiliar enough not to raise concerns at first glance.
Upon arrival, the atmosphere told a very different story. The building appeared neglected, the surroundings felt unsafe, and the general condition of the property was far from what the online photos suggested. Inside, the furniture looked worn, cleanliness was questionable, and the presence of unsettling guests immediately changed the tone of the stay.
The situation became even more uncomfortable at the front desk. Although the student was under the standard age requirement, an employee agreed to let her stay, but with a strange restriction that her friends could not remain with her. At the time, the reason was unclear, but it added to the growing sense that something was wrong.
When affordability overrides safety checks
The decision to book through a third-party website played a central role in the experience. Relying on a limited set of reviews and unfamiliar branding, the group prioritized cost over deeper research. For many young travelers, this approach is common, especially when trips are short and budgets are tight.
What the booking process failed to reveal were the broader reputational issues tied to certain properties. A hotel name alone does not always reflect consistent standards across locations, and online reviews can be selective or outdated. Without cross-checking multiple sources, important warning signs can be missed.
In this case, the disconnect between expectations and reality became obvious the moment the group stepped onto the property. The environment felt hostile rather than welcoming, reinforcing how crucial it is to look beyond price and star ratings when choosing accommodations.
A warning from an unexpected source
After the concert, transportation became another challenge. Several ride requests were canceled before one driver finally accepted, despite being far away. When he arrived and learned their destination, his reaction shifted the mood instantly.
As they approached the hotel, the driver asked if that was truly where they planned to stay. His concern was calm but firm, advising caution and explaining that the location was not considered safe, especially for young women traveling alone. He avoided details, clearly not wanting to frighten them, yet his message was unmistakable.
Once inside the room, the warning began to make sense. Stained mattresses, unclean surfaces, and an overall feeling of neglect heightened their fear. Sleep was difficult, and by early morning, the group decided to leave as soon as possible.
Broader concerns and a shared pattern
In later reflections shared online, the student explained that while nothing extreme happened during the night, the experience was disturbing enough to prompt further research. Reading additional reviews revealed accounts of mold-filled bathrooms, unsanitary bedding, and even health issues linked to poor hygiene.
These personal stories also intersect with larger concerns surrounding hotel safety. In recent years, the Red Roof Inn franchise has been linked to legal cases involving human trafficking, with allegations that certain locations ignored clear signs of illegal activity. Although not every property has been implicated, multiple reports across different states have raised serious questions about oversight and accountability.
The story resonated widely because it echoed similar experiences shared by other travelers, not only at this chain but across various budget accommodations. Together, these accounts serve as a reminder that saving money should never come at the expense of personal safety, and that thorough research is an essential part of any travel plan.