People who travel away from home for work appreciate the basics, done very well. Not fancy or fussy, just get ‘er done efficiency with old-fashioned cookin’ and clean sheets. Look for these Motel people when you need the same.
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I’ve been pampered in one or two of the best hotels in Canada, and I like it. But sometimes after travelling for a few days, when I’m dusty and tired (and short-tempered), what I really appreciate is basic accommodation and feeding that just works well. No Belgian chocolates on the pillow or branded towels folded up to look like peacocks, just services that work well. In the tradition of the great American Motor Hotel, I need a Motel, darnit!
When the need for reasonably-priced, easily accessible overnight accommodation strikes me, I don’t look for bloggers, back-packers or retirees in station wagons (crossover SUVs), I look for construction workers, civil servants and newer vehicles with logos on them. Surveyors, bridge-builders and engineers work far from where they live. They go to bed early and are gone to work long before my first coffee.
These folks don’t want any household affairs to get in the way. They need to be fed and watered with minimal fuss. No valet parking here. The vehicle’s right outside where I can get at my stuff easily and keep an eye on it. Tons of hot water for a shower. Big TV with lots of channels and free internet that works without being a Silicon Valley tech wiz. You get the idea.
And the restaurant’s got to be a model of efficiency. Sure, I could go down to the hipster Café des Artistes for a lesson in eclectic barista cultures, but some mornings I just want experienced wait staff to bring me a good coffee without my having to ask.
Some mornings I just need others to clear a path for me to stumble into my day.
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The Adams Family has been supplying locals and travellers alike with quality, no-nonsense food and accommodation in Gaspé, Quebec, since the 1940s. Allan Adams still chats with customers and keeps a close eye on the place from his usual seat in the restaurant.
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But be careful out there my friends. Fleabags abound. Ask to have a look at the room before handing over your credit card. Is there a reefer truck parked nearby (that sucker will run ALL night long)? Does the HVAC unit rattle? Is there an electrical outlet for your phone and laptop without having to unplug the TV or get behind the bed? Water pressure? Bedding? Does it smell like paint remover?
Good Luck fellow traveller. A good motel is hard to find. Here are a few in North Bay, Ontario. Let me know what you find out there…
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