Two of the best things about Planet fitness are:
1) The super-helpful staff. You can ask them anything and they're always happy to help. Even if you don't know the right process for reserving a tanning bed, they're very patient and will help walk you through the steps.
2) The abundance of equipment with ample room. I moved in the last year from a location with no Planet Fitness, but there was a small independently owned gym. They had a great assortment of weight machines but only one of each, and they were all jammed side-by-side with no space in between. At PF I have never had to wait for a machine during my workout routine, and I really enjoy the extra personal space!