I guess I can understand the glowing ratings from folks who seek out exceptionally plain low-cost lodging. That's a noble nitch in the market, allowing folks with less disposable income to experience a broader range of travel options.

But you should expect NO MORE than a bare light-bulb type experience at the Peppertree. I can imagine no more stripped-down experience than I have experienced during my three recent stays at this hotel. The first time I stayed here, it was the only option within a half-hour travel radius of where I needed to be during the day. The second and third times were because I was going to be arriving very late and departing early in the morning - and the hotel just needed to have an acceptably clean room to get my business.

And "acceptably clean" is a good description of the hotel; as would be "spartanly furnished" (new word, I think , with "spartanly"), and even "beginning to show signs of aging poorly". It's a definite step down from a Holiday Inn Express or Courtyard by Marriott type of hotel - with public facilities reminding you more of a government-style institutional facility than a hotel. The continental breakfast room reminds me of the dining room in a nursing home - albeit a clean nursing home - but lots of vinyl, fading wood trim, and cheap kitchen appliances/utensils. The hallways were well dinged, with "hide everything" carpet and flourescent work light-type fixtures in the ceilings. And the rooms, ... the bathroom sink and counter is along the main wall in the room, with linoleum floors (the area near the beds is carpeted). The appointments are dated - the wood trim, although clean, was worn - as were the bed linens and carpet. The tiling (trim tiles) in the bathroom - which consisted of a stool and bathtub/shower combo - had grout missing, and there were deep gouges in the tub.

NOT a place to go if any level of amenity above 'institutional and purely functional" is desired - or if "well-worn but clean" leaves you feeling creepy (I got over it, mostly 'cause I was exceptionally tired - but I did come back two more times ...).

And the service was pleasant, but nothing out of the ordinary. Eye contact from the staff was a rarity - although they seemed kind and willing - they just had no level of service polish AT ALL.

So long as you're expecting this type of experience, and want a relatively cheap rate from a national chain hotel, this may do. If you're looking for ANYTHING more, you'll do well to check out the Courtyard by Marriott in Federal Way, or any number of hotels near Sea-Tac.