Although the Holiday Inn Express is very close to the NCSU Campus and several restaurants/shopping centers, it seems very secluded (in a good way). There was no traffic noise to keep me up at night. The grounds were well-kept. The area seems very safe, and at night the parking lot and entrance areas are well-lit and the exterior doors are locked (accessible by one's room key). The lobby was beautiful. I was greeted immediately upon entering and was checked in quickly. The entire building was spotless, including the stairways (which are usually neglected). My room was immaculate, including the tub and shower. They cleaned my room daily (although most hotels have stopped daily cleaning since COVID). There was a refrigerator and microwave in the room, as well as a safe. The hot breakfast was excellent and well-stocked (a time and money-saver). The staff was very friendly and cordial, from checking in, to the morning breakfast, to checking out early in the morning (around 4:00 AM). I would not hesitate to recommend this hotel to anyone needing to stay in the Raleigh/NCSU area.