Two Holiday Inn Express locations in Albuquerque have policies prohibiting local residents from booking rooms, with one citing concerns about “unsavory activities,” such as drug use and prostitution.

Calvin, an Albuquerque resident, encountered an unexpected issue when trying to book a staycation at the Holiday Inn Express on 12th Street and Indian School. He explained that he simply wanted a brief getaway, but was shocked when the hotel denied his booking request.

Hotel Policy

A message on the hotel’s website states, “We are unable to accommodate residents of the Albuquerque metro area for room rentals.” When asked for clarification, the hotel directed inquiries to leave a message for the manager.

Target 7 investigated whether other hotels in Albuquerque have similar policies. Calls were made to several hotels, including the Marriott Uptown, Days Inn near Menaul and University, Hampton Inn and Suites, and Crowne Plaza. All of these hotels allow Albuquerque residents to book rooms.

However, the Holiday Inn Express on Menaul near Carlisle has the same policy as the location near Old Town. When asked to elaborate on the policy, the front desk employee said, “Being an Albuquerque resident, I’m sure you can think of some of the reasons why we wouldn’t let Albuquerque residents stay in our hotel.” The employee later stated they aim to prevent “unsavory activities,” such as drug use and prostitution.

Both Holiday Inn Express locations are owned by local franchisees. InterContinental Hotel Group, which owns the Holiday Inn Express brand, was also contacted but has not yet responded.

Calvin ultimately booked a room at a different hotel in Uptown but expressed concern for others who might face more urgent situations. He noted that a family member had previously stayed at the hotel due to a power outage at her apartment.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.