Squid's Ink Motel
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Summary of reviewsSquid's Ink Motel, situated on the picturesque edge of Lake Macquarie, boasts a prime location that nearly all guests find impressive. With breathtaking lake views, especially at sunset and a serene atmosphere, the setting contributes significantly to a peaceful and memorable stay. The convenience of nearby amenities, including shops, restaurants and a yacht club, adds to its appeal, making it a practical choice for both leisure and business travelers. The motel offers good value for money, particularly for rooms with lake views, further enhanced by the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, which many guests cite as a standout feature.
The on-site dining experience is mixed with the licensed restaurant Tinta enjoying praise for its lakeside position and excellent ambiance. Guests appreciate the outdoor dining options, including a BBQ, though the limited menu and high prices at the restaurant have been noted. Instances of closures and noise also present potential drawbacks. Despite the absence of breakfast services, which many guests find inconvenient, the motel’s dining offerings for lunch and dinner are generally well-received when available.
Guest reviews on room quality are varied. Positive highlights include clean, comfortable and spacious accommodations with newly renovated bathrooms and essential amenities. The quietness of the rooms, despite the motel’s proximity to a busy road, is another plus. However, some rooms are reported to be outdated, needing maintenance and occasionally lacking in cleanliness. Nonetheless, for budget-conscious travelers, the motel represents an attractive option with its affordable rates and decent facilities.
Cleanliness is a strong point for Squid's Ink Motel with many guests commending the spotless condition of their rooms and the well-maintained outdoor areas. Occasional issues such as mold, dust and cleanliness beneath furniture have been reported but do not overshadow the generally positive feedback regarding the motel’s hygiene standards.
The staff at Squid's Ink Motel receive high praise for their friendly and considerate service with many guests highlighting their positive interactions with reception and management. This exceptional customer service greatly enhances the overall experience, despite a few instances of less favorable encounters.
Free WiFi is available and while some guests have enjoyed good internet connections and the convenience of Netflix, others have faced challenges with poor connectivity in certain areas of the motel.
Parking facilities at the motel are somewhat inadequate with guests reporting limited spots and occasional overcrowding, especially when the restaurant is busy. Additionally, the lack of marked or dedicated parking spaces contributes to occasional confusion and safety concerns.
The bedding experience is mixed with many guests finding the beds comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, despite some reports of discomfort due to varying mattress quality.
Overall, Squid's Ink Motel offers a satisfactory three-star experience, providing reasonable value for money, a charming lakeside location and mostly positive guest interactions. Despite some shortcomings in room maintenance and amenities, the motel’s setting and service make it a pleasant choice for a budget stay in the area.
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The on-site dining experience is mixed with the licensed restaurant Tinta enjoying praise for its lakeside position and excellent ambiance. Guests appreciate the outdoor dining options, including a BBQ, though the limited menu and high prices at the restaurant have been noted. Instances of closures and noise also present potential drawbacks. Despite the absence of breakfast services, which many guests find inconvenient, the motel’s dining offerings for lunch and dinner are generally well-received when available.
Guest reviews on room quality are varied. Positive highlights include clean, comfortable and spacious accommodations with newly renovated bathrooms and essential amenities. The quietness of the rooms, despite the motel’s proximity to a busy road, is another plus. However, some rooms are reported to be outdated, needing maintenance and occasionally lacking in cleanliness. Nonetheless, for budget-conscious travelers, the motel represents an attractive option with its affordable rates and decent facilities.
Cleanliness is a strong point for Squid's Ink Motel with many guests commending the spotless condition of their rooms and the well-maintained outdoor areas. Occasional issues such as mold, dust and cleanliness beneath furniture have been reported but do not overshadow the generally positive feedback regarding the motel’s hygiene standards.
The staff at Squid's Ink Motel receive high praise for their friendly and considerate service with many guests highlighting their positive interactions with reception and management. This exceptional customer service greatly enhances the overall experience, despite a few instances of less favorable encounters.
Free WiFi is available and while some guests have enjoyed good internet connections and the convenience of Netflix, others have faced challenges with poor connectivity in certain areas of the motel.
Parking facilities at the motel are somewhat inadequate with guests reporting limited spots and occasional overcrowding, especially when the restaurant is busy. Additionally, the lack of marked or dedicated parking spaces contributes to occasional confusion and safety concerns.
The bedding experience is mixed with many guests finding the beds comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, despite some reports of discomfort due to varying mattress quality.
Overall, Squid's Ink Motel offers a satisfactory three-star experience, providing reasonable value for money, a charming lakeside location and mostly positive guest interactions. Despite some shortcomings in room maintenance and amenities, the motel’s setting and service make it a pleasant choice for a budget stay in the area.
Motel with Parking
Squid's Ink Motel offers complimentary on-site parking for guests. While some reviews mention tight spaces, the availability of free parking on the property is confirmed.
Motel with Free Wi-Fi
3-Star Motel
Guest Reviews
Situated in an enviable spot, Squid's Ink Motel offers a location that consistently impresses its guests. Nestled right on the edge of Lake Macquarie, the motel provides breathtaking lake views from many of its rooms, ensuring a picturesque and serene stay. The lakefront positioning is described as superb and stunning with some guests emphasizing the incredible sunset views and peaceful environment despite the proximity to a busy main road.
Guests appreciate the convenience of being within walking distance to local amenities such as shops, restaurants, cafes, a playground and the yacht club, making it easy to explore the surrounding area without needing a vehicle. The central location is praised for its accessibility, whether visitors are attending local events, visiting nearby attractions or breaking up a longer journey.
In addition to the natural beauty of the lake, there's a commendable ease of access to Newcastle and other nearby regions with some guests highlighting the convenience of the motel for work-related travel. Despite being set right on the highway, the property manages to maintain a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.
The motel also provides good value for money, particularly the rooms with lake views, which are often noted as a highlight of the stay. Cleanliness and the friendly, helpful attitude of the staff further enhance the guest experience, making Squid's Ink Motel not just a place to stay, but a memorable part of a visit to Lake Macquarie.
Despite its picturesque setting and exceptional views, the Squid's Ink Motel falls short in providing breakfast services, much to the disappointment of many guests. The absence of breakfast facilities, even though there is a restaurant on the premises, has left travelers wanting more convenience, especially those with specific needs such as elderly family members.
Guests expressed a strong desire for an on-site breakfast option, particularly as the waterside sitting area is noted for its outstanding ambiance, perfect for a serene morning meal. Unfortunately, the restaurant does not offer breakfast, operating only for lunch and dinner, leaving early risers with limited choices.
While some guests enjoyed their own breakfast outside their rooms, amidst nature and birdwatching, the lack of even basic amenities like a toaster in the rooms further compounded the issue. The closure of the café and restaurant during key breakfast hours has been a frequent source of frustration.
Ultimately, while Squid's Ink Motel offers a stunning location ideal for a tranquil getaway, the absence of breakfast services detracts from the overall convenience and experience for guests.
The dining experience at Squid's Ink Motel offers a mix of highs and lows. The motel boasts a licensed restaurant, Tinta, which enjoys a beautiful lakeside position, making it an attractive spot for cocktails at dusk or dinner with a view. Guests often appreciate the outdoor dining experience and the proximity to excellent nearby restaurants.
The onsite BBQ is another delightful option, allowing guests to prepare their own meals while soaking in the scenic lake views from the patio. Many reviews praise the hospitality of the attached restaurant, describing the food as excellent and the ambiance as classy and amazing.
However, there are drawbacks. Some reviewers highlight the restaurant's limited menu and high pricing, which seem mismatched for a budget motel. There have been instances where the restaurant was closed, either due to renovations or other interruptions, which disappointed guests looking forward to dining on-site. Additionally, some guests mentioned the noise from the new restaurant and the inconvenience when nearby dining options were fully booked.
In summary, while the Squid's Ink Motel offers great potential for a memorable dining experience, it's advisable to check the restaurant's status and possibly make reservations at nearby restaurants to ensure a seamless dinner outing.
Squid's Ink Motel offers a mixed bag of experiences when it comes to room quality, but positive traits are nevertheless notable. Guests frequently commend the rooms for their cleanliness, comfort and spaciousness. The newly renovated bathrooms and features such as rain head showers and air conditioning contribute to a refreshing experience. Many guests appreciate the tasteful simplicity and good presentation of the rooms, citing that they are perfect for short stays and provide all essential amenities.
The motel's location on a busy main road proves advantageous for access, while certain rooms with lake views offer an excellent scenic backdrop. In terms of value, the motel is considered very affordable, making it a favorable choice for budget-conscious travelers. Newly painted rooms and modernized facilities enhance the overall stay and many visitors note the surprising quietness despite its central location.
However, the establishment is not without its drawbacks. Several rooms are described as outdated and small with some showing signs of wear and needing renovation. Issues such as outdated bathrooms, faulty fixtures and incomplete renovations can detract from the overall experience. Some guests highlighted cleanliness issues and noted poor maintenance, including instances of carpets being dirty and an infestation of insects.
Additionally, the lack of daily housekeeping services and persistent requests for additional amenities like coffee, milk and mugs were common. Service shortfalls such as not properly servicing the rooms and missing standard items like towels and soap holders also draw criticism.
In conclusion, while Squid's Ink Motel's rooms can be described as clean and comfortable with certain upgraded features, they vary significantly in quality and modernity. Guests seeking budget-friendly stays close to amenities may find the motel fitting, provided they manage expectations regarding potential shortcomings in room maintenance and size.
At Squid's Ink Motel, the bedding experience garners mixed reviews. On a positive note, many guests praise the beds for being comfortable with some highlighting the large, comfy mattresses and crisp sheets. Extra pillows are available, which several visitors appreciated. Reviewers often describe the beds as remarkably comfortable, emphasizing a particularly good night's sleep.
However, there are notable inconsistencies. Several guests mention issues with bed comfort, describing some mattresses as too soft, too hard or spongy. Concerns about minimal bedding, including thin blankets and low-quality pillows, were also mentioned. A segment of visitors experienced lumpy beds or outdated, worn-out mattresses.
Overall, while the bed comfort at Squid's Ink Motel receives plenty of favorable mentions, some guests suggest improvements to the bedding and pillows to enhance the stay quality.
Squid's Ink Motel has garnered a slew of positive feedback regarding its cleanliness from recent guest reviews. A significant number of reviewers praised the establishment's cleanliness, consistently highlighting clean rooms and spotless amenities. Guests frequently noted that the rooms were clean, tidy and well-presented, often specifying that clean towels and bedsheets were provided. Many found their accommodations very clean and comfortable with some appreciating the spaciousness and recently renovated interiors.
The outdoor areas, especially near the lake, were also well-maintained and clean, contributing to a pleasant overall environment. Despite the motel's age, numerous reviewers mentioned that it is well looked after with a strong emphasis on cleanliness.
However, there were occasional mentions of issues such as mould in the bathrooms, dust on vents and unclean carpets. Some guests reported finding dirt in less obvious places, like under the bed or on the bathroom floor. Incidents involving cockroaches and musty smells were also pointed out by a few.
While some rooms were described as dated and in need of renovation, the overwhelming consensus highlights a commitment to maintaining a clean and comfortable stay for guests. The motel's strong points include its clean and basic yet tidy rooms, efficient weekly cleaning service and very clean bathrooms, ensuring a positive experience for most visitors.
The staff at Squid's Ink Motel consistently receive praise for their friendliness and helpfulness. Reviewers frequently highlight the accommodating and efficient nature of the team, particularly the managers and receptionists. Guests describe the staff as approachable, kind and courteous, noting that they often go above and beyond to meet visitors' needs and resolve any issues promptly.
Many reviews mention exceptional customer service with specific examples of the manager and reception staff being particularly commendable. The staff’s communication skills and their ability to make guests feel welcome stand out as key positives. Examples include helping guests retrieve forgotten items, arranging additional amenities and providing thoughtful assistance throughout their stay.
However, there are some mentions of less favorable encounters with a few reviewers noting instances of unwelcoming attitudes and a lack of assistance. Despite these occasional negative experiences, the overwhelming sentiment is positive with many guests labeling the staff as fantastic, friendly and an essential part of a pleasant stay at Squid's Ink Motel.
The WiFi experience at Squid's Ink Motel has been mixed according to guest reviews. On the positive side, several guests appreciated the good internet connection and seamless access, which included quick response times and the convenience of a Netflix setup on the large TVs in both rooms. However, not all feedback was positive. Some guests reported issues like poor signal strength, continuous disconnections and the complete absence of WiFi in certain rooms. While the streaming capabilities added a nice touch for many, others felt that the WiFi could have been better, pointing to areas in need of improvement.
The parking situation at Squid's Ink Motel appears to be a mixed bag based on guest reviews. On the positive side, some guests found parking to be available and easy with a few even describing it as convenient. There are instances of allocated parking and a number of reviewers noted that there are parking areas available and lots of parking spaces, albeit with some issues like tight spaces and crowds when the on-site restaurant is busy.
However, the majority of feedback highlights significant challenges. Many guests expressed concerns about the limited availability of parking spots with some pointing out that the parking area could be crowded or filled with rubbish and construction materials. The lack of signposted or marked car spots led to confusion and the absence of dedicated or undercover parking was noted. Parking inadequacy was a common complaint with several patrons describing it as a hassle or horrible and some even remarked that they had to park on the highway, which posed safety concerns due to cross traffic. Overall, it seems that while there is a parking facility, its limitations and occasional overcrowding significantly detract from the guest experience.
The Squid's Ink Motel offers solid value for money with reasonable pricing, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious travelers. Guests have praised the motel for being fantastic value, good for the price and very good value for money. The motel features small but adequately refurbished rooms in a charming old Route 66 style with high ceilings.
However, some facilities may fall short of expectations with reports of inadequate room amenities such as a lack of cutlery and crockery. While the restaurant and bar area are seen as notable perks, there have been instances of them being advertised as open when they were actually shut, which could be inconvenient.
The location and service received positive nods and overall, the motel seems to fulfill basic three-star expectations. Potential guests should keep in mind the ongoing renovations that could contribute to noise issues, but if approached with the mindset of getting what you paid for, the experience is largely satisfactory.
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Location
Guests appreciate the convenience of being within walking distance to local amenities such as shops, restaurants, cafes, a playground and the yacht club, making it easy to explore the surrounding area without needing a vehicle. The central location is praised for its accessibility, whether visitors are attending local events, visiting nearby attractions or breaking up a longer journey.
In addition to the natural beauty of the lake, there's a commendable ease of access to Newcastle and other nearby regions with some guests highlighting the convenience of the motel for work-related travel. Despite being set right on the highway, the property manages to maintain a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.
The motel also provides good value for money, particularly the rooms with lake views, which are often noted as a highlight of the stay. Cleanliness and the friendly, helpful attitude of the staff further enhance the guest experience, making Squid's Ink Motel not just a place to stay, but a memorable part of a visit to Lake Macquarie.
Breakfast
Guests expressed a strong desire for an on-site breakfast option, particularly as the waterside sitting area is noted for its outstanding ambiance, perfect for a serene morning meal. Unfortunately, the restaurant does not offer breakfast, operating only for lunch and dinner, leaving early risers with limited choices.
While some guests enjoyed their own breakfast outside their rooms, amidst nature and birdwatching, the lack of even basic amenities like a toaster in the rooms further compounded the issue. The closure of the café and restaurant during key breakfast hours has been a frequent source of frustration.
Ultimately, while Squid's Ink Motel offers a stunning location ideal for a tranquil getaway, the absence of breakfast services detracts from the overall convenience and experience for guests.
Dinner
The onsite BBQ is another delightful option, allowing guests to prepare their own meals while soaking in the scenic lake views from the patio. Many reviews praise the hospitality of the attached restaurant, describing the food as excellent and the ambiance as classy and amazing.
However, there are drawbacks. Some reviewers highlight the restaurant's limited menu and high pricing, which seem mismatched for a budget motel. There have been instances where the restaurant was closed, either due to renovations or other interruptions, which disappointed guests looking forward to dining on-site. Additionally, some guests mentioned the noise from the new restaurant and the inconvenience when nearby dining options were fully booked.
In summary, while the Squid's Ink Motel offers great potential for a memorable dining experience, it's advisable to check the restaurant's status and possibly make reservations at nearby restaurants to ensure a seamless dinner outing.
Rooms
The motel's location on a busy main road proves advantageous for access, while certain rooms with lake views offer an excellent scenic backdrop. In terms of value, the motel is considered very affordable, making it a favorable choice for budget-conscious travelers. Newly painted rooms and modernized facilities enhance the overall stay and many visitors note the surprising quietness despite its central location.
However, the establishment is not without its drawbacks. Several rooms are described as outdated and small with some showing signs of wear and needing renovation. Issues such as outdated bathrooms, faulty fixtures and incomplete renovations can detract from the overall experience. Some guests highlighted cleanliness issues and noted poor maintenance, including instances of carpets being dirty and an infestation of insects.
Additionally, the lack of daily housekeeping services and persistent requests for additional amenities like coffee, milk and mugs were common. Service shortfalls such as not properly servicing the rooms and missing standard items like towels and soap holders also draw criticism.
In conclusion, while Squid's Ink Motel's rooms can be described as clean and comfortable with certain upgraded features, they vary significantly in quality and modernity. Guests seeking budget-friendly stays close to amenities may find the motel fitting, provided they manage expectations regarding potential shortcomings in room maintenance and size.
Beds
However, there are notable inconsistencies. Several guests mention issues with bed comfort, describing some mattresses as too soft, too hard or spongy. Concerns about minimal bedding, including thin blankets and low-quality pillows, were also mentioned. A segment of visitors experienced lumpy beds or outdated, worn-out mattresses.
Overall, while the bed comfort at Squid's Ink Motel receives plenty of favorable mentions, some guests suggest improvements to the bedding and pillows to enhance the stay quality.
Cleanliness
The outdoor areas, especially near the lake, were also well-maintained and clean, contributing to a pleasant overall environment. Despite the motel's age, numerous reviewers mentioned that it is well looked after with a strong emphasis on cleanliness.
However, there were occasional mentions of issues such as mould in the bathrooms, dust on vents and unclean carpets. Some guests reported finding dirt in less obvious places, like under the bed or on the bathroom floor. Incidents involving cockroaches and musty smells were also pointed out by a few.
While some rooms were described as dated and in need of renovation, the overwhelming consensus highlights a commitment to maintaining a clean and comfortable stay for guests. The motel's strong points include its clean and basic yet tidy rooms, efficient weekly cleaning service and very clean bathrooms, ensuring a positive experience for most visitors.
Staff
Many reviews mention exceptional customer service with specific examples of the manager and reception staff being particularly commendable. The staff’s communication skills and their ability to make guests feel welcome stand out as key positives. Examples include helping guests retrieve forgotten items, arranging additional amenities and providing thoughtful assistance throughout their stay.
However, there are some mentions of less favorable encounters with a few reviewers noting instances of unwelcoming attitudes and a lack of assistance. Despite these occasional negative experiences, the overwhelming sentiment is positive with many guests labeling the staff as fantastic, friendly and an essential part of a pleasant stay at Squid's Ink Motel.
Wi-Fi
Parking
However, the majority of feedback highlights significant challenges. Many guests expressed concerns about the limited availability of parking spots with some pointing out that the parking area could be crowded or filled with rubbish and construction materials. The lack of signposted or marked car spots led to confusion and the absence of dedicated or undercover parking was noted. Parking inadequacy was a common complaint with several patrons describing it as a hassle or horrible and some even remarked that they had to park on the highway, which posed safety concerns due to cross traffic. Overall, it seems that while there is a parking facility, its limitations and occasional overcrowding significantly detract from the guest experience.
3 Star
However, some facilities may fall short of expectations with reports of inadequate room amenities such as a lack of cutlery and crockery. While the restaurant and bar area are seen as notable perks, there have been instances of them being advertised as open when they were actually shut, which could be inconvenient.
The location and service received positive nods and overall, the motel seems to fulfill basic three-star expectations. Potential guests should keep in mind the ongoing renovations that could contribute to noise issues, but if approached with the mindset of getting what you paid for, the experience is largely satisfactory.
No, Squid's Ink Motel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Squid's Ink Motel.
No, Squid's Ink Motel doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Squid's Ink Motel.
No, Squid's Ink Motel doesn't have a gym.
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