The Comfort Inn of Albert Lea recently received a 2011 Gold Hospitality Award from Choice Hotels International.

General Manager Karen Davis said this is the second year in a row the hotel has won the award. She credits staff service and long-time employees for the award.

“The guests have to really like you,” Davis said.

She said inspections and guest comments are the main things hotels are scored on for the award. Some of the things guests like are the cleanliness and customer service, according to Davis.

“We have a great breakfast — they like that,” Davis said. “They’re confident the room is clean.”

The staff’s goal is to make the rooms look like no one has stayed in them before, and Davis said the housekeeping crew does a good job keeping to that motto.

Because the hotel is at its 10-year anniversary, Davis said they plan to make some updates this summer. That includes updating the exterior of the building and replacing furniture.

“We’re doing some major renovations this summer,” Davis said.

The Comfort Inn in Albert Lea is among the top 10 percent of properties within the Comfort Inn brand, according to a press release.

“The Comfort Inn Albert Lea’s commitment to excellence and outstanding guest service has earned it this well-deserved as one of the best hotels among the Comfort Inn brand,” said Steve Joyce, president and chief executive officer for Choice Hotels in a press release.

Davis agreed that customer service is one of the hotel’s best qualities and said staff service scores are “amazing.”

The Comfort Inn is at 810 Happy Trails Lane in Albert Lea.