Star Lodge, Vista

The highest possible praise for this motel, its rooms, and service has already been given in the official description: fairly low price and "standard motel design." If your vehicle has broken down on the jam-packed freeway, which is just yards away, Star Lodge may have to make do.

Desperate for a few hours' sleep & can't manage the few miles to Oceanside? Hope you packed ear plugs. In addition to Hwy 78's notorious traffic jams & accidents, ambulance sirens will wail night & day on West Vista Way (nearby Tri-City Hospital), and the chances of loud searches & drug busts in the room next door or downstairs are high. Star Lodge changes its name & ownership often, but remains a well-known weekly/ monthly-rate refuge for speed freaks partying all night, and dealers on the run from the law.

Make sure that there are sufficient locks on doors, that windows are secure. Park your car in strong light where you can SEE it from inside your room, lock it all around, and arm the alarm. Remember that others have done the same, so you'll need to be alert enough to recognize your own alarm's distinctive screeching... despite the ear plugs.