CANDLEWOOD SUITES RALEIGH CRABTREE BY IHG, Raleigh

The hotel sits on a wooded property just off the main road, offering a surprisingly quiet setting for being so close to the highway and major retail areas. Crabtree Valley Mall with its many restaurants and shops is within walking distance. North Carolina State University is a 10-minute drive away, and the RBC Center (now Lenovo Center) is also 10 minutes by car. Parking is ample and free, making it practical for those with a car. The neighbourhood is described as safe and convenient, with easy access to main highways and stores for longer stays.

Accommodations range from studio suites with a queen bed and pull-out sofa to one-bedroom suites with a separate bedroom. Every suite includes a full-sized refrigerator, two-burner stove, microwave, dishwasher, and kitchenware (pots, pans, dishes, utensils). Living areas come with a seating area, dining table, desk, and cable TV. Air conditioning, heating, ironing facilities, and tea/coffee makers are standard. Some suites have tiled floors, and all include a private bathroom with Dove toiletries. While many find the rooms clean and spacious, some furniture may show wear, and certain rooms have been described with inconsistent smells, often from smoke. The atmosphere can vary by floor, but overall the suites are functional and well-suited for extended stays.

There is no complimentary breakfast, but a small selection of breakfast items and snacks is available at the front desk for purchase. The main dining option is the suite's own full kitchen, which comes equipped with a stove, microwave, full-sized refrigerator, and utensils. Outdoors, two propane grills under a gazebo are available for guest use. For those preferring to eat out, Crabtree Valley Mall across the street offers over 10 dining options including Sbarro, Greek Fiesta, and Kabobi.

The fitness centre is located in the same room as the guest laundry, allowing for multitasking. It features good-quality equipment, including cardio machines, and is free to use. Outside, the property offers barbecue facilities and a picnic area with outdoor furniture, useful for cooking and relaxing. A golf course is available within 3 km for an additional charge. Board games and puzzles are also available at the front desk for family recreation.

Free Wi-Fi and wired internet are available in all guest rooms. The 24-hour front desk can assist with express check-in/out, luggage storage, dry cleaning/ironing (both for an additional charge), and free laundry. The on-site minimarket stocks essentials. Parking is free and accessible, with accessible spaces available. The business centre has computers and printing facilities. The property is fully air-conditioned, has a lift, and is non-smoking throughout, with designated smoking areas outside. Safety includes key card access, smoke alarms, and a safety deposit box. The hotel allows pets (1 per room, fee applies) and offers adjoining rooms. Board games can be borrowed from reception.