I booked a stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites Hartford/Farmington through Expedia to visit my cousin and celebrate her 3-year-old son’s birthday. After a 2-hour drive with my family, we arrived to a dismissive front desk staff member. I signed a “no parties” agreement, yet the lobby was full of guests with pizza, drinks, and coolers—clearly a party.
Later, I ordered a small cake, balloons, and utensils via Instacart. I called to notify the front desk and was immediately yelled at: no balloons or cake allowed. We agreed to take the balloons home and keep things simple. When my cousin picked up the delivery, the staff went through the bags and accused us of violating the contract, threatening fines. Despite trying to clarify we just wanted to sing happy birthday with four kids, they escalated and called the police. The officers were kind and understood, but recommended we leave.
We didn’t stay the night, didn’t eat the cake, and had to move hotels after 10 PM with wet, confused kids. No refund was given. Meanwhile, large groups in the lobby were allowed to celebrate openly. When I called later for staff names, I was hung up on. Expedia was told we “had a party” and denied a refund. This was a heartbreaking, disrespectful experience I wouldn’t wish on anyone.
