🚀 **Clear Lake Escape: NASA Views & Luxury at La Quinta Inn!**
🚀 Clear Lake Escape: More Than Just a Room - It's a Vibe (and Maybe a Little Chaos) at La Quinta Inn!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I just got back from the La Quinta Inn in Clear Lake, and let me tell you, it was a ride. This isn't your sterile, corporate hotel review. We're going deep. We're talking honest opinions, occasional tangents, and probably a few too many exclamation points. Consider this your pre-flight briefing.
First Impressions & the "NASA Views" (aka, the Glimmer of Hope)
The name "Clear Lake Escape" promises a NASA-adjacent, luxury experience. Let's be real, the NASA Views are… well, they involve squinting and a vague sense of possibility, depending on your room. My room kinda overlooked a parking lot, but if you leaned just right, you could almost see some rockets twinkling in the distance. (Okay, maybe not rockets. More like… streetlights.) Don't get me wrong, it wasn't bad. Just… realistic.
Cleanliness & Safety – Trying to Feel Safe in the Pandemic
Right off the bat, I gotta say, the La Quinta tried. The Hygiene Certification was proudly displayed, and you definitely felt a sanitizing presence. They're using Anti-viral cleaning products, and there were hand sanitizer stations EVERYWHERE. I’m talking, strategically placed hand sanitizer, like a friendly, alcohol-based welcoming committee that's definitely on high alert. The whole place smelled… well, it smelled clean, which is a win in my book.
They also did a great job with the Physical distancing of at least 1 meter. It felt like they were actually trying to keep everyone safe. The little details – the Individually-wrapped food options, the staff wearing masks, the Staff trained in safety protocol – all contributed to a sense of… cautious optimism. Because let's face it, we're all a little on edge these days, right? They even had the option to Room sanitization opt-out available, which, I appreciated. It’s good to have options!
Accessibility – Making it Work, Mostly
The Elevator was a lifesaver! I mean, who wants to haul luggage up flights of stairs, anyway? They offered Facilities for disabled guests, and I saw several indications they were trying to be accommodating. But listen, things weren't perfect. Sometimes, I encountered a minor obstacle or two during my exploration (I'm more of a clumsy explorer than a disabled guest, but you get the idea.) It was a little tight maneuvering in some of the common areas, but hey, they’re making an effort.
The Rooms: My Sanctuary? (Kinda)
My room, thankfully a Non-smoking room, was… well, it was a room. But a room with some interesting features.
- The Good: The Air conditioning worked like a champ, crucial in the Texas heat. The Free Wi-Fi was a godsend (hey, a girl needs her Netflix!). The Coffee/tea maker in the room was a great bonus, especially after a long day. The Blackout curtains were a lifesaver, letting me sleep in almost as late as I wanted. The Toiletries were… basic, but present. A win!
- The Weird: The Mirror in my room seemed to be doing some kind of optical illusion, which somehow made me think I looked younger than I actually am, though, I can't be sure. I was a little disappointed that the NASA Views weren't quite as impressive as they sounded. Also, The Bathtub was clean, which is not a given these days.
- The Questionable: The bed. Oh, the bed. The Extra long bed was nice, but it was also… firm. I slept okay, but let's just say this isn't a luxurious, cloud-like experience. It was more like… a supportive, well-worn mattress.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food for Thought (and Possibly Regret)
Okay, the food situation was… a mixed bag.
- Breakfast: The Buffet of Dreams (and Possible Disappointment)
Here's where things got… interesting. The Breakfast [buffet] was available, of course. but also with Breakfast takeaway service. It’s a classic La Quinta offering. It was your standard continental offering, but with a few quirks. Plenty of Coffee/tea in restaurant. I enjoyed the effort but I am partial to a proper, cooked breakfast… that the hotel did not provide.
- The Snacks
The Snack bar had the usual suspects – chips, candy bars, probably some questionable pre-packaged pastries. Fine in a pinch.
- Dinner: Limited Options, but Tummy Satisfied
The restaurant options at the hotel were relatively limited. Mostly offering Western cuisine in restaurant. Though, I was very grateful for the Room service [24-hour] after my long, exhausting day.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (Or Try To)
They have a Swimming pool [outdoor]. I peeked in. Looked clean. Didn't swim. I was too worn out.
No Spa or Sauna, sadly, which, if you're looking for a truly relaxing escape, is a bit of a bummer. But, hey, you're near Clear Lake, and the Johnson Space Center is nearby, in case you want some more inspiration or you have a kid.
Services and Conveniences – The Little Things (That Sometimes Matter a Lot)
- The Helpful Stuff: The free Car park [free of charge] was a huge plus in this day and age. The Concierge was helpful, as much as a tired employee can be at the end of a shift.
- The Less-Helpful Stuff: My request for a Luggage storage was done with a smile, which I appreciated.
For the Kids (And the Young at Heart)
Though, I didn't experience this, but if you are traveling with kids, there is some Family/child friendly offerings.
Overall Vibe & Verdict:
Look, the La Quinta Clear Lake isn't the Ritz. But it's also not pretending to be. It's a solid, clean, comfortable place to crash, especially given a tight budget. The staff tries hard. The cleanliness is commendable. You can get a decent night's sleep.
The NASA views might not be the selling point you're hoping for, but if you manage your expectations, you'll be fine.
Final grade: 3.5 out of 5 stars. Would I stay again? Maybe. If I need a crash pad near Clear Lake, and I’m looking for something that won't break the bank, and with a few potential minor quirks. Just remember: pack your own pillow and embrace the slightly chaotic charm. You might just find yourself having a good time.
Laguna Beach's Hidden Gem: Capri Laguna's Beachfront Bliss!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your average, sterile travel itinerary. This is the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Houston/Clear Lake-NASA Webster (TX) Experience: A Messy Chronicle. Consider this your front-row seat to my potential meltdown/triumph (fingers crossed for the latter).
Pre-Trip: The Ticking Time Bomb (and Packing Fails)
- The Dreaded Pre-Flight Panic: Last-minute emails, frantic attempts to locate passport (which I swore I put in that "safe place" - which, of course, morphed into a black hole). My partner, bless his heart, is already packed and smug. Cue internal screaming.
- Suitcase Tetris: The Art of the Cram: I packed approximately three times what I actually needed. The shoes alone could probably house a small family. There's a reason airlines charge for excess baggage, and I'm probably going to be a prime example.
- The "Essentials" List: Let's be honest, "essentials" includes: three emergency chocolate bars, a book I'll probably never read, and a miniature bottle of emergency whiskey. Priorities, people. Priorities.
Day 1: Arrival and the Reality Check (Houston, We Have a Problem… with the Air Conditioning)
- Morning: FINALLY made it to the airport. The flight was delayed. Of course, it was. My blood pressure is already flirting with dangerous levels.
- Afternoon: Landed in Houston. The airport is…well, an airport. Navigating the baggage carousel is a sport in itself. Found my bags eventually, thank God.
- Check-In at La Quinta: Found the hotel. The lobby smells faintly of chlorine and ambition. The front desk person is friendly, which is a good start. But wait… the key card reader is being stubborn. Classic. Finally, IN.
- The Room Reveal: Okay, it's… a room. Not exactly a palace, but it has a bed and, crucially, a working TV. The air conditioning, however, is set to "Arctic Blast 2.0." It's so cold, I'm pretty sure I saw my breath. I texted the front desk the moment to turn it down a bit.
- Dinner Disaster (or Delight?): I ventured out to find food. My initial thought was Mexican (duh), but the first place I went to had this huge line. Settled for tacos near the hotel…and it was amazing! Best taco I've ever had? Maybe. Don't judge me.
Day 2: Space, Houston, and a Rollercoaster of Emotions
- Morning: Space Center Houston (The Dream Begins…) Okay, now THIS is what I'm here for. I'm a total space nerd. The sheer scale of the rockets, the history… it's overwhelming, in the best way possible. Got an astronaut ice cream. It tastes like… well, nothing, but I love it anyway.
- The Tram Tour: The tram tour got crowded and the tour guide was okay. I kept leaning over, trying to read the plaques and trying to get a full picture of everything. I really love the mission control center.
- Lunch and the Downward Slide: Restaurant choices are scarce and the ones I have are crowded.
- Afternoon: Mood Swings and Space Exploration: I was in the gift shop for too long. I bought a t-shirt, some stickers and a giant poster.
- Evening: Dinner and The Meltdown (Almost). Back to the hotel. The air conditioning is now a balmy 60 degrees. I called the front desk again. "Maintenance will be right up." (Pro Tip: Pack a sweater). Decided to have a pizza and just chill out.
Day 3: Day Trip Away
- Morning: The Galveston Getaway. The weather forecast said sun, but the sky is gray. I'm getting a sense that things are never quite working right. Took a scenic drive to Galveston.
- Afternoon: Under the Sea and The Unexpected. Took a stroll down The Strand, got some ice cream, and the heat got to me. Went to the aquarium and the shark tank was impressive.
- Evening: Back to Reality. Back at the hotel. I'm tired. The bed is calling my name.
Day 4: Departure and the Aftermath
- Morning: Woke up slightly hungover from my nightly wine. Packed the suitcase, which is now even MORE full. The "I might need this" pile has doubled.
- Check Out: The front desk is, thankfully, functional at this hour. A quick and painless checkout.
- Final Thoughts: The La Quinta? Not perfect. Did the experience capture the spirit of space exploration? Maybe. I learned a few things: I'm clearly not cut out for packing light, airline delays are the bane of my existence, and an astronaut ice cream may change my life. Would I go back? Possibly. This trip was an experience, a reminder that travel is a wild, messy, and often hilarious adventure. And sometimes, that's exactly what you need. Now, coffee. Lots and lots of coffee.
(Postscript: I probably left something behind. I always do.)
Clarion Pointe Jasper (IN): Your Dream Jasper, Indiana Getaway Awaits!
🚀 Clear Lake Escape: NASA Views & Luxury... At La Quinta? Yeah, Okay, Let's Do This!
Okay, real talk, "luxury" at a La Quinta? Is this some kind of elaborate prank?
HA! Look, I went in expecting...well, I expected a La Quinta. You know the drill: slightly stained carpet, complimentary continental breakfast that looks suspiciously like it's been there since the Cretaceous period, maybe a grumpy front desk person. And yeah, some of that was accurate. But the "luxury" part? It's more like "elevated La Quinta." The NASA views, though? They are REAL. Seriously, you can almost *feel* the rocket fuel wafting on the breeze. But no, it's definitely not a St. Regis. Think of it as... the best La Quinta you've ever stayed in, with a killer space backdrop.
Seriously, what do you *actually* see from the rooms? Is it just a distant building?
Okay, picture this: I'm standing on my little balcony... and BAM! There's the giant Saturn V replica, like, RIGHT THERE. And you can see the Space Center itself, with its massive buildings. It's not a panoramic view, mind you. You don't see *everything*. But you get a fantastic, close-up vibe. I spent, like, a solid hour just gawking. I even tried to take a photo, but the sun was in the wrong spot and I looked like a total tourist. The best part? You can see the rocket launch pads through the trees! (Okay, not always, but... sometimes!). It's pretty darn cool, especially since I'm not a huge space nerd, but it definitely made me want to become one. Seriously, space is wild.
The pool. Is it a tragic, chlorine-soaked abyss, or...something more?
Alright, this is where we get real. The pool...it's a pool. Not a world-class infinity pool with poolside service, that's for sure. It's clean. It's blue. It had some kids splashing around. It's your typical motel pool. I did the important thing, which was to dunk myself a couple times and then lie on a sun lounger (which, to be fair, were plentiful). But honestly? I barely spent any time there because I was too busy obsessing over the view of the Space Center!! It's a solid "C+". Does the job. Not a vacation destination in itself. I guess I just wanted there to be a water slide, in my defense.
What about breakfast? That's often the deciding factor, isn't it?
Oh, breakfast. Let's just say...it's La Quinta breakfast. You know the drill. Waffles you make yourself (thank goodness for those!), sad-looking muffins in plastic wrap, possibly some hard-boiled eggs that have seen better days. The coffee was...well, it was coffee. I think I had a banana, too. It was free, it filled a hole, and I was fueled up for my space-gazing adventures. Don't go expecting a gourmet brunch. It's functional. And fine. I ate the waffle, that was the important part.
Is it noisy? Like, construction-site noisy, or...just the usual hotel sounds?
Okay, yes, this is something worth mentioning. Clear Lake is kind of... busy. There was definitely some road noise, especially during rush hour. And you could hear some other hotel guests. It's not the quietest place. I suggest earplugs. Or a really good white noise app. I, unfortunately, just suffered. But it's something to be aware of. Also, depending on the time of year, there might be some bugs. I'm not a bug person. Bugs and me, we don't get along. So, be prepared. Bring bug spray!
Is the location actually good? Or are you stuck way out in the boonies?
The location is pretty decent. It's very close to Space Center Houston, which is the whole *point* of going there. You can get there in a few minutes - it was great to just drive over and then immediately start pretending I was an astronaut. There are plenty of restaurants and fast food options nearby. You're not going to be totally isolated. Plus, there's a decent selection of stores if you want to buy something, and I didn't have to travel far to get my fix. It's not quite downtown Houston, but you're close enough to everything important. You know, unless you *are* an astronaut. If that's the case, you might be in a totally different scenario.
Tell me more about those NASA views! Like, REALLY!
Okay, okay, fine! You want more NASA views? Here goes. I was there in the evening, and the way the sun set behind the buildings...it was stunning. I kept finding myself just...staring. Also, every time I walked past the window, I had to stop and look again. Was it the real place? Were astronauts actually working in those buildings? Did Neil Armstrong have an office there? No idea. But it was cool. Then, in a stroke of genius, I decided to order some take-out and eat dinner on the balcony. I'm not normally a balcony person, but this...this was different. The sunset was beautiful, the lights started to come on at the Space Center. It was PERFECT. I ordered pizza. And honestly, it was the best pizza I've ever had. Partly because of the pizza, and partly because of the view, and partly because I was ridiculously happy. (Don't tell anyone I said this, but...I might have actually shed a tear.) The pizza. The view. I'm telling you!! It was the best. And I almost missed the launch rehearsal.
Okay, so... would you recommend it? For Real?
Look, the "luxury" part is a stretch. But the NASA views? That's the real deal. If you're interested in space, or if, like me, you're just a little bit curious, then YES, absolutely recommend it. Manage your expectations about the general hotel experience. But go for the view. Go for the memories. Go for the opportunity to feel a little bit awe-struck, even if you're just standing on the balcony eating pizza. It's a unique experience, and one I'll definitely remember—especially the pizza… and the view. And maybe even the La Quinta part. (Okay, probably not the La Quinta part but the view). So yes. GO. Just pack earplugs and some bug spray, and maybe don't expect too much from the waffles. And definitely bring a camera with a good zoom lens. You might also want to bring a friend, so you can share the experience. Oh, and also, consider whether or not to bring a pizza.
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