More on the Mom and Pop Motels

A definite plus for staying at a mom and pop motel is the price, often in the $40-$50 range. Also, you get a better feel for the road and for the retro. Many of these are 40+ years of age. Plus some are a bit esoteric and more than a few are built along a theme. (See Wigwan Villages)

They definitely aren't of a cookie cutter variety as are most chains. Let's see, am I in Omaha or Miami, or maybe San Antonio? Instead of having your continental breakfast in a small room with a TV going, in Williams, Arizona, at The Grand Motel, you can have it outside on the patio (weather permitting) overlooking the mountains and traffic along old Route 66.

A definite minus (and plus for the chains) is that you never know what to expect from the experience standpoint. In an attempt to stay open, some of the mom and pops have fallen into serious disrepair or are to long-term residents of dubious standing. Some are essentially drug houses or brothels.

How to avoid an unpleasant experience of this sort would be to eyeball the place. If it looks to be well-kept up, with trimmed bushes and flowers, it is probably ok. Look at the vehicles in the parking lot. If they look to be in good shape and running, (definitely not junked) that would be a plus as well.

Ask to see a room before getting one. Take a look at the people staying there if they are around. Stop at a service station or local tourist center and inquire about suggestions. Travel guides are another good source of information.

If you're on Route 66, there are many books and an excellent Yahoo e-mail group where you can inquire.

Keep on Down that Two Lane Highway. --RoadDog