Imagine stepping into a peaceful haven amidst the hustle and bustle of a bustling international airport. That’s the allure of a great airport hotel – a temporary retreat from the constant flow of passengers and the roar of planes taking off and landing. While some view airport hotels as merely a pit stop before a flight, a truly exceptional one offers much more than just a bed for the night.
A Comfortable Haven: The Basics of a Good Stay
Let’s face it, a comfortable room is a non-negotiable. A good airport hotel should provide a cozy and inviting space where you can relax and recharge. This is especially important for guests who won’t be venturing out, unlike those staying in city hotels with attractions just outside their doors. Newer hotels, especially those built by major American chains, often get the basics right: soft beds, large televisions, and decent showers.
It’s the little things that make a difference, too. Imagine arriving exhausted after a long journey, only to struggle with finding the right power outlet or turning off the lights. A good airport hotel understands this. They provide multiple universal power outlets, conveniently placed near the desk, and USB charging ports are a must-have these days. While the Hilton Garden Inn at Heathrow Terminal 2 boasts comfortable rooms with all the essential amenities, they fell short in providing universal power outlets.
Soaring Views: A Glimpse of the World Below
What’s more captivating than watching planes take off and land from the comfort of your hotel room? A great airport hotel offers stunning views of the runway, allowing you to witness the magic of modern aviation. The Hilton Garden Inn at Heathrow is well-positioned for this, offering fantastic views from higher floors overlooking the terminal. However, the narrow windows and thick walls do limit the angle of view slightly.
A Rooftop Oasis: More than Just a Room
The Hilton Garden Inn at Heathrow goes above and beyond with its rooftop bar, a haven for those seeking something more than just a comfortable room. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the airport, sip a drink, and watch the sunset over the runways. The bar is a popular spot for plane enthusiasts, but it’s also a relaxing spot for anyone who wants to unwind and soak up the atmosphere.
Digital Convenience: Making Travel Easier
In the fast-paced world of air travel, digital check-in and check-out are invaluable. It saves precious time and eliminates the frustration of waiting in queues, especially when you’re running late for a flight. The Hilton app allows you to check in digitally and use a digital keycard stored on your phone. While this is a great idea in theory, the execution needs improvement. The Hilton Garden Inn at Heathrow had some hiccups with their digital key system, making it difficult to access the elevator and room.
A Final Word: The Essentials for a Great Airport Hotel
Ultimately, a great airport hotel provides a comfortable and convenient experience without any unnecessary complications. The Hilton Garden Inn at Heathrow gets most of the basics right. It offers a clean and comfortable space, a rooftop bar with breathtaking views, and a convenient digital check-in system. While it could improve its digital keycard system and provide universal power outlets, it offers a good example of what makes an airport hotel stand out.
