As a photographer for a New York daily newspaper, it's not uncommon to get a last-minute call to go somewhere ridiculous and random RIGHT NOW because a story is breaking.

This happened a few weeks ago, when an NBA ref was implicated in a gambling ring; he lived in Bradenton, and my newspaper wanted 24-hour coverage at his house. Barely booking a flight in time, I found myself in Florida that night, and found the closest hotel to my subject's home, the Fairfield Inn.

We had no idea how long I'd be there, so I asked for two nights initially with the possibility that I'd have to extend my stay. TWO WEEKS later, I was still a happy and satisfied customer!

This was one of the most pleasant hotel experiences I've ever had -- perhaps because it was nice to crash out on a bed in the air conditioning after spending 12 hours sitting in a car, staring at someone's house! Its location was perfect, and the staff handled my daily "one more night, please" requests without a problem.

In comparison, in May I was sent up to Boston to cover the New York Yankees, and stayed at the Ritz-Carlton. At $530 per night, I wasn't impressed. The staff was was ridiculously fake and obsequious to a creepy fault, and they screwed up the billing royally, double-charging, charging the wrong person, etc., etc. Here, however, for a $99/night, everyone stayed out of my hair, and provided me with everything I needed efficiently.

Lovely sunrise out the east windows, too!

Stayed one night with my wfie and our two kids. The front desk staff were great! Very Very helpful with all of our little requests. Room was very clean as was the bathroom and the entire facility. Breakfast was very good with many fresh fruit choices and hot waffels. Our kids loved the waffles.

Would reccomend to anyone traveling in the area.

Wattage

This hotel has to compete with the awesome Holiday-Inn Lakewood Ranch (see Sarasota hotels) which is just one-half mile away and they do a great job of it.

Clean, excellent service and good rates. Good restaurants within walking distance. There iS active competition between these two Lakewood Ranch properties and both hotels are outstanding -- but what else could you expect at top-notch Lakewood Ranch?

Bear in mind they're not the Ritz Carlton, nor are they TRYING to be but if you want a lot of bang for your buck, this particular hotel is consistently one of the best I stay at when I travel for work. I'm here at least once a month and the staff is always friendly and quick to greet you. The rooms are spotless and I've never had to ask for a thing. The free high-speed internet and free breakfast (and it's so much more than "doughnuts and cheap coffee") make it perfect for business travel and it's convenient to 75.

Monty's Pizza in the Publix shopping center has great food and for breakfast try First Watch (same shopping center) for a spot the locals recommend!