When I was notified that I had to go to Juarez, for the second time, I was very apprehensible. I had been in Juarez about a year ago and stayed in a "not-so-nice" hotel.

A friend of mine had advised me that he had a great experience at the Holiday Inn Express. I my head I thought, "Holiday Inn = Great Experience," does not equate. But I took his advice and made my reservation.

My trip began in Burbank, CA. Small airport, not too many people (hey, you still walk out on the taxi area and walk up the metal stairs to get into the plane), a good thing. Our connecting flight was in Phoenix (America West's major hub). Giant airport, too many people. Our flight was delayed 1hr 20 mins. Mindset at this moment is not good. Arrive El Paso, TX around 9pm. Medium size airport, not too many people. OK. Take a taxi from El Paso airport to hotel (taxi charge $39.50).

Arrive to hotel and find out that it is nothing I had imagined. The Holiday Inn is not an Inn. It is the Inn of Inns. Let me tell you, the staff is extremely courteous. Helpful to no end. Anything we asked they had an answer for. If they did not, they worked to get an answer. We go through check-in process. Smooth & expeditious! It seemed that they knew we had had a strenuous trip and that what was on our minds was to get some rest.

First thing I noticed is - this hotel is "CLEAN". I get to my room. The room consisted of the following common things at other hotels: bed, dresser, TV, clock/alarm, desk - now the uncommon things: iron/ironing board, hairdryer, coffee maker/complimentary coffee, bottled water.

The hotel offers complimentary breakfast every morning (cereal, yogurt, fruit, sweet breads, pancakes, coffee, fruit juices, milk), small gym, indoor swimming pool, business center, eMail check computer in lobby, all at no additional cost.

All in all, this is a great hotel, with a great staff, with great accommodations at a great rate. I give it two thumbs up with a smile and pat in the back!