Choice Hotels International Inc., a leading hotel companies, has awarded Econo Lodge in Russellville the prestigious Hotel of the Year Award in Las Vegas. Econo Lodge in Russellville is ranked as the number 1 Econo Lodge in the United States out of 754-plus Econo Lodges.

This hotel is owned and managed by Peter and Gita Patel.

The Hotel of the Year Award recognizes a hotel for its outstanding customer service and operational excellence. Nominees are all top rated hotels within their hotel brand.

“The Econo Lodge in Russellville, Ky. consistently goes above and beyond to make travel easier for guests by delivering value, exceptional service, and convenience,” said Annie Smith, vice president of brand management and design for Choice Hotels. “The Econo Lodge brand is known as the Easy Stop on the Road, and this hotel is an outstanding representation. The owners and staff are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of service and instill that level of commitment in every new employee who joins the team.”

Peter Patel has been managing the Econo Lodge in Russellvillef for the past nine years. Under Patel’s leadership, the property has repeatedly ranked near the top of the Econo Lodge brand, but this is the first time the team has won Hotel of the Year award after continuously being a Hotel of the Year finalist more than three times. Active in the community, Patel serves as the Vice Chairman of Logan County Kentucky Tourism and is a member of Russellville Rotary Club.

The hotel features a business center, guest laundry facility, free hot breakfast, and comfortable/clean rooms that each include coffee makers, microwaves and other complimentary amenities.

Some of the guest comments include:

“You should stay here. Nice and clean. Great staff who takes pride in their hotel.”

“Great hotel. They try hard to make you feel welcomed. Very clean too.”

“Excellent experience overall! Very personable & thoughtful family, wanting to insure a comfortable stay…which it was! Well-managed hotel with comfortable, clean bedding and room.”

“Exceptional room and service! Good hot breakfast, room clean and remodeled, and very comfy bed!”

“We’re so happy to receive this award from Choice Hotels,” said Patel. “It is all due to the hard work of our friendly staff ,and I am so pleased the team is being recognized and rewarded for their unfailing dedication.”