Howard Johnson accommodation - good or bad?
 

We are a family of 4 looking to travel to the states for the first time next year. Our two daughters 8 and 10 want to go to Disneyland. Our travel agent recommended the Howard Johnson but I was speaking with someone today that said to stay anywhere But there, now I'm quite confused. Has anyone been to the Howard Johnson by Disneyland and is it any good? If not, where else within walking distance to Disneyland should we look at staying?

Any of the hotels/motels along harbor blvd and around Disneyland (including the HoJo) would be fine. None are dumps. HoJo's vary in quality across the US, but that one is fine.

The Tripadvisor reviews corroborate janisj's comments.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Rev...alifornia.html

If a single "someone" can undermine your trust in your travel agent, then perhaps you should consider a change. On the other hand, "Trust but Verify" is a good idea.

Thank you for your replies. The hotel reviews were very interesting. I was absolutely looking for verification as I am aware that everyone has different standards and requirements for their family. Still more research to do but feeling more confident again.

It is very popular and a "nicer" one - I have not been IN the property but have been by it often (I attended school very close to it) the pool area is very popular with smaller children - as it has a large play area.
If you want a good breakfast - Mimi's cafe is within walking distance and is very yummy!
http://www.mimiscafe.com/

It's been several years since I've stayed there, but it was fine for my family. It had a pool, it was clean and convenient, and I believe there was a McDonald's in close proximity. Two of the children's requirements were fulfilled, as were two of mine.

Read the reviews on tripadvisor to help make up your mind. If the majority of them are good or excellent, give it the benefit of the doubt. I always read the negative reviews; if the reviewer complains about the decor, I dismiss it. If the review is nothing but negative, nit-picky stuff, I also dismiss it. Some people have unrealistic expectations from a budget hotel and are impossible to please.