A Timeless Stay at the Motor Inn - South of the Border, Hamer, NC…read more The Motor Inn at South of the Border is more than just a place to rest--it's a piece of Americana that deserves to shine again. From the neon glow at night to the nostalgic charm that lingers around every corner, staying here feels like stepping into another era. The rooms are simple, comfortable, and filled with the character of a roadside treasure that has welcomed travelers for generations. What makes this place special isn't just the rooms--it's the lure of South of the Border itself. This iconic stop has been part of countless road trips, family vacations, and southern adventures. Keeping it alive, relevant, and celebrated is important not only for travelers but for preserving a cultural landmark. That's why I, Thomas Miller--author of South of the Border: The Motel That Eats Time--have dedicated my writing to capturing that magic. My book blends nostalgia with horror, weaving a story that keeps South of the Border alive in the imagination of readers everywhere. Horror might seem like an unlikely ally, but through it, I'm shining a light on this place, ensuring its legend continues and new generations rediscover its lure. If you're planning a road trip through North or South Carolina, I highly recommend booking a night at the Motor Inn. Come for the neon lights, stay for the history, and experience the atmosphere that inspired my novel. And if you want to take a piece of that magic with you, check out my book here: South of the Border: The Motel That Eats Time .https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FRYD4V23 From the Pen of Thomas Miller Author of South of the Border: The Motel That Eats Time

It's ok if you're just going for the attractions and to sleep, but the downfall is the tub doesn't…read moredrain well. You have to stand in a puddle to shower and the tubs cleanliness was questionable.

​You'll see the billboards for 100 miles in either direction, and honestly, the anticipation is…read morepart of the experience. South of the Border is the ultimate "time capsule" of 1950s roadside America. It's unapologetically tacky, neon-drenched, and wonderfully weird. Is it a bit weathered? Yes. But it's a must-stop at least once in your life just to experience the sheer scale of Pedro's world. ​ ​The Sombrero Tower: For $5, you can take a glass elevator up 200 feet. The view of the I-95 corridor and the surrounding Carolina plains is actually really cool, and it's a great way to stretch your legs after hours of driving. ​ This is a photographer's playground. Between the giant Pedro statues, the fiberglass animals, and the vintage neon, your camera roll will be full. ​The Shopping: From fireworks at "Rocket City" to the most random souvenirs you didn't know you needed, the shops are massive.

The whole place seems anachronistic and dated. There's a musty aged smell in all the buildings, and…read morethe restrooms were minimally serviced with an ever present "urinal cake" smell. It was fascinating to stop by and see it, but it seems well past its prime.

I recently stayed at SpringHill Suites by Marriott Lumberton in Lumberton, NC, and overall, it was…read morea very comfortable experience. The room was clean and spacious which made it easy to relax after a long day of traveling. The bed was especially comfortable, and I appreciated how quiet the hotel was even being close to the highway. It's definitely a great stop if you're traveling and need a place to unwind. The staff was friendly and welcoming, which always makes a difference. Check-in was smooth, and the overall atmosphere of the hotel felt modern and well-kept. Breakfast was available, which was convenient, though the selection could be a little better depending on your expectations. Still, it was nice to have that option before heading out. Overall, I would recommend this hotel if you're looking for a clean, comfortable, and convenient place to stay in Lumberton. I would definitely consider staying here again.

The SpringHill Suites in Lumberton, NC. It is located off I-95, but I came on another road, so I…read moremissed the entrance as it was somewhat hidden. Check-in was super friendly and helpful. I was given a room on the top floor and even given a recommendation for dinner. When I arrived, there was a baby shower in the lobby, and possibly a family reunion. My room was large and almost clean. There were two white substances on the counter. It didn't photograph so well in the light, but one I took without the light on. It appeared to be missed in cleaning the counter. The WIFI was great, and there was a good selection of television stations. I could hear some of the traffic from the highway, so I adjusted the fan to stay on to buffer it. But it wasn't an issue I first thought it would be. The hotel had a pool and a small fitness room. Breakfast was great. When I got there, the lobby was full of high school or college students heading to a robotics competition. It was hard to find a seat. But waffles, breads, cereals, oatmeal, as well as hot foods were offered. I believe there were yogurts and some fruit as well. The breakfast area was well attended to, and she kept the selections stocked. I am planning a return here in May and hope for another great stay.

Front Desk clerk very friendly. Very good quality sheets. Free breakfast. Not bad for the price.read more

I had a bad experience this trip with reservations but me and my fiance were bumped up to a ground…read morefloor king suite! The pool needs a lit attention and my door was not very secure. I unclogged the sink drain myself as the maintenance man wasn't there. Overall, besides the shady characters roaming g about, the stay was ok! Walmart very close and many choices in restaurants within a few steps. Waffle house is just steps away to! Huge Fireworks place just on the other side of the 95 bridge! Speedway just past that for $2.62 a gallon for unleaded! We went to the South of The Boarder area just 7 miles north. Good place to have fun. There is a asphalt racing track close to! I'll be back as long as the doors are fixed and secure!

Wonderful lodging and more just off I95 in Dillon, SC. We were in town for a funeral; Mark and…read moreMichael were such incredibly gracious hosts. Beautiful, clean, historic facility. Highly recommended!

I was searching for a hotel as it was dark and I just got gas in Dillion SC and sat in my car…read moresearching on line. Everything decent too far and motels did not look great BUT - The Columns B&B was rated 5 stars and was only two miles from gas station! Incredible BB beautiful and the hosts Michael and Mark so gracious ! The house is outstanding - really must see! And decorated beautifully!! Beautiful rooms - breakfast delicious - can't recommend it more !! Enjoy ( cost very reasonable also )

Wonderful experience from check in to check out…read more My wife and I took a quit trip to NC to handle some family business, so everything was last minute. It was so last minute that we arrived hours after we had planned and we were tired. The person on duty for check in could not have been more pleasant, cheerful and helpful. Overall, an excellent stay.

Cynthevia greeted us and welcomed us so wonderfully. How lucky we are. She is a gem & the day time…read morestaff is also . Cherry and kitchen staff and all. The front desk gave a complimentary rubber duck for their amazingly deep bath tubs. If they still have this promotion , they hope you can share the adventures of your travels with your duck! Take pics and tag them! Cute. They should win an award for how wonderful and special they are. I finished watching the Super Bowl in my room. I slept so exceedingly well. Pillows and mattress so plush. Breakfast and coffee were delicious. Lots of charging stations. Nice carpet design. Desk is nice!! I loved my time here very very much. I wish I had a ukelele. I would make a melody for all the TLC and splendid hospitality. Grateful to you all who designed this lovely place. Thanks for all you do for us all. Very special.

This hotels management is just sad and pathetic... online it says the pool will be open until 10Pm,…read moreoutside on BOTH signs it says 10PM, and i was told to get out of the pool at 8Pm because it was "closed"... then i went inside to ask why i was told the pool would be open until 10 if it was closed... I called twice before going down to see if the pool was open and no answer. The girl at the desk got upset with my factual statements and told me she wasn't "arguing" and walked away This place is sad, we chose this hotel for the pool as we arrived in town at 7:30Pm and then ate because we were aware the pool would've been open. We now leave tomorrow morning, so wow what a great stay and advertisement! Pathetic Hampton Inn!

Very poor quality for a Hampton Inn. Very dated. Furniture is worn and chipped. Beds are nothing…read morelike any other Hampton Inn I have stayed. No soap in the room. Very disappointed. Breakfast was disgusting.

This an awesome little hotel out in the middle of nowhere…read more Pristinely clean rooms, friendly staff and solid wifi. So much fun I stayed there twice.

During the SC floods we appreciate the hospitality of the Coachman Inn. Even though the cable tv…read morewas out we had a bed, hot water for showers and yes Internet connection. The desk clerk was courteous and pointed us in the right direction for a hot meal and room service provided fresh towels. Sure beats camping in the car watching washed out roads and bridges. We appreciate all of their good will.

We are always on the lookout for nice hotels to enrich our road trips & the Mantissa didn't…read moredisappoint! Our room was gorgeous & well appointed! The Sleep Number bed was very comfortable. Loved the big soaking tub! Definitely was a draw for us. It was great after a long 7.5 hour drive even though it was a ways off I-95! Totally worth it! While we initially had a bit of confusion upon check in with the type of room booked, it was quickly sorted. There were a few niggling fine points that could be improved upon, the person at the desk upon checking out asked about things and assiduously took notes on the few items.

As I walked in I was so surprised by this beautiful hotel here in Hartsville…read more The staff here at the Mantissa is so friendly and nice. This hotel is well structured with a quaint historical feel. The rooms are huge and apartment like. Our suite was a delight with a full stylish kitchen even a table in the kitchen. It's very hard not to feel at home here. We enjoyed relaxing in the living room area with the cable TV. The bedroom was wonderful as well equipped with a sleep number bed. Oh what an experience. The bathroom is very beautiful and set to impress with all the modern touches to make you feel spoiled as well as welcomed. My experience here was far and beyond any expectations I could ever have for a small town like Hartsville, not that I don't expect small towns to have nice hotels however this one is way beyond like I said earlier. I'm already planning my next visit Hartsville visit and yes I'll be staying here again and again. You can't go wrong you will be very comfortable here at The Mantissa!

This is one of two hotels available in the area because there's literally nothing around lol, but…read moreit was actually a really nice hotel experience. They were clean for the most part, the hotel staff was super nice and welcoming. I do wish they had a little bit more breakfast options, like bacon but for overall the sausage patties and gravy was really good. I also had a banana nut muffin and it was moist and really good flavor. I was impressed with my experience there.

The hotel rooms are clean and the breakfast is good. In…read moreroom 310 when you start the shower in the bathroom it smells like chlorine from the pool. When I turn the light on it did not turn on intel you flick the light switch a few times then the light turns on. Also, I can hear the traffic.