"How did it strike you on arrival?"Motel" isn't a misnomer: In 2017, famously-hip hotelier Liz Lambert transformed the 1930s-era white stucco Austin Motel into a retro motor inn. As you park your car outside your hotel room door, take note of the iconic (phallic) red neon sign. What’s the crowd like?Most guests are here to take advantage of SoCo's live music and nightlife. The good stuff: Tell us about the rooms.Rooms have been updated but are original to the hotel (apparently they didn't need closets in the '30s). The decor is funky and playful: red, tufted-vinyl platforms, custom Voutsa wallpaper in a pattern of lips, old-school push-button phones. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Custom Sferra sheets will make the beds feel like home to many. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?Pick up snacks and beer or wine at the Bodega; there's no mini bar (nor turn-down services). Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The small bathrooms have Alaffia Everyday Coconut products in the shower. But shucks, they're bolted to the wall so you can't steal them. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is free and fast. What do they have for food?There's no room service, but the gift shop sells protein bars, candy, local beers, and a small selection of wine that oeneophiles would approve of. Anything stand out about other services and features?On warm days, the massive kidney-shaped pool is filled with guests, almost all with a cocktail or Austin Motel koozie in-hand. Pets are also welcome (for an added fee) What was most memorable about your stay?Peacefully sitting in the red Barcelona chairs in the courtyard. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Its proximity to bustling South Congress is ideal for some travelers, but this is a true motel (not hotel) experience." - Allison Bagley
