Holiday Inn Express Hotels in Moreno Valley

This was my first time staying at this hotel since I was visiting the area for a friend's event. Parking is easy and right upfront - but there's also parking on the side of the hotel and in the back. The front lot can get packed though - since it's shared by the restaurants/businesses in the area, as well as a Residence Inn next door. I was cheerfully greeted upon entry by Brisas, who assisted me with check-in. She acknowledged my elite status with IHG, and was able to assist with my early check-in request. When I initially got to room #221 - I was happy to see I was upgraded to a King Suite with a sofa, but ran into some issues initially - the blackout curtain was down and immovable. When I lifted it to look at my view - I was greeted by the top of the hotel's porte-cochère, and an AC unit - so pretty much a ”view” of the hotel entryway's roof. I went back downstairs and asked Brisas if she had something on a higher floor. She was happy to accommodate - but shared that the 4th floor rooms were still being cleaned and I wouldn't be able to check-in early. I figured the tradeoff was fine, and I'd just work on my laptop in their lobby while waiting. I rarely have to ask to be moved, but was pleased with how prompt my request was accommodated. Kevan - (Brisas's wonderful colleague) picked up where Brisas left off as her shift ended before my new room was cleaned. Kevan was able to place me in room #425 - a King Standard room with a chaise lounge - perfectly placed by the large, picturesque window. I had a great panoramic view of the valley. The room was clean, crisp, and modern. There were plenty of outlets - both AC and USB ports - intuitively placed around the room. The workstation had a nice 3-stage lamp, which provided ample brightness when needed, as well as dim, ”mood” lighting. This particular room comes with a microwave, mini fridge, and Keurig - not a Nespresso like the Intercontinentals, but a Keurig is still better than the drip coffeemakers a lot of other hotels in this category offers. Bed was super comfortable - not sure what other reviewers were complaining about when they said it was squeaky. My bed made no such noises. Thermostat works well and the A/C was able to get the room cool in no time - important, considering it was almost 100*F outside! There is a pantry stocked with snacks, drinks, ice cream by the front desk where you can buy treats you might have forgotten to pack. The prices are fair considering the convenience - there is also a 76 Food Mart within walking distance and a Winco behind the hotel - also walkable - only because I didn't want to lose my awesome, front-of-the-hotel parking spot. Complimentary breakfast served in the morning - decent selection of hot foods (eggs, sausage, potatoes), yogurt and toast. Fitness Center is 24/7 - and the pool is decent sized - but no one was using it because it was hot as heck outside. Overall, a great and enjoyable stay. What made it even more awesome were the front de