The Only Inn in Town

Cheshire may have a pizza restaurant on nearly every corner along with a fair share of convenience stores and gas stations. But, it has only one motel.

For nearly 20 years Pravin and Sukan Patel have owned and operated an inn on South Main Street. The long-established business was called the Welcome Inn until three years ago when the business joined a national franchise and was renamed the Cheshire Red Carpet Inn & Suites.

Situated close to Quinnipiac University, Cheshire Academy and Choate Rosemary Hall, the inn's location attracts guests who are visiting the area schools.

"I have friends who attended Quinnipiac University, and it was a nice, affordable, and inviting place to stay,” said Alexa Cruz, of New York. “When I stayed there again during Quinnipiac’s senior week this year, it was still a friendly and accommodating atmosphere.”

After years of operating an independent inn, the Patels joined a franchise to gain access to a national reservation network. The change has provided support, said Pravin Patel, but the slow economy has caused a drop in business. “When the economy is booming, we don’t have this type of problem," he said.

Even with the school year beginning in a few weeks, Sukan Patel said she doesn't expect a boost in occupancy.

“A few years ago we would have expected an increase, but with the economy going down and down, we are not expecting much this season,” said Sukan Patel.

Still, having a motel monopoly has its advantages."It’s great being the only one in town, we don’t have to worry about any competition," said Pravin Patel.

The gardens and landscaping at the inn also attract visitors, the Patels said. A large weeping cherry tree graces the front of the property.

“Supposedly, it is one of the oldest trees in Cheshire. People have stopped by just to see it when it’s in bloom,” said Pravin Patel.

“I enjoy (meeting) different kinds of people from all around the world,” said Pravin Patel.

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