Imagine this: you’re amidst the bustling chaos of an international airport, surrounded by a sea of travelers and the constant roar of planes taking off and landing. But you’re not caught up in the frenzy. Instead, you’re enjoying a peaceful respite in a comfortable, well-designed hotel room. This, dear reader, is the true luxury of a great airport hotel.
While some see airport hotels as merely a pit stop, a temporary haven before an early morning flight, the truth is that a well-designed airport hotel can offer a truly relaxing experience. However, not all airport hotels are created equal. Some offer just the bare minimum, while others truly stand out.
Comfort is Key
The foundation of any great airport hotel is comfort. Imagine sinking into a soft bed after a long journey, or waking up to the soothing sound of a rain shower. It’s these little details that make all the difference, especially when you’re confined to a hotel room for a few hours.
Modern hotels often prioritize comfort, with larger televisions, plush bedding, and well-appointed bathrooms. The recently opened Hilton Garden Inn London Heathrow Terminal 2 is a good example of this. Despite a few minor hiccups, such as the water pressure in the showers (a common issue in Britain!), the hotel delivered on the basics, offering a pleasant and comfortable stay.
Beyond the Room: Thoughtful Design Matters
While comfort is essential, a well-designed hotel goes beyond the basics. Easy-to-use technology is key. You shouldn’t have to worry about searching for an adapter or struggling with complicated controls.
USB outlets are becoming increasingly popular, offering a convenient way to charge devices without the need for adapters. Conveniently placed power outlets near the desk are also a must. The HGI at Heathrow did well with USB outlets but, unfortunately, only offered UK power outlets, which can be frustrating for international travelers.
A stunning view can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your stay. Imagine gazing out your window at the spectacle of modern commercial aviation, with planes taking off and landing against a backdrop of clouds.
The HGI at Heathrow has a great location, nestled between the two runways. While the windows are a bit narrow, the view is truly breathtaking.
A Welcoming Atmosphere: Going Beyond Expectations
A truly memorable airport hotel provides an escape from the ordinary. It offers unique experiences that make you feel like you’re somewhere special, even if you’re just passing through.
The HGI at Heathrow excels in this regard with its rooftop bar. This oasis boasts stunning panoramic views of the airport, offering a tranquil retreat for travelers.
The bar, affectionately known as the Runway Bar, is a haven for aviation enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. While the outdoor seating area was closed during this visit, the indoor space is cozy and inviting, offering a perfect spot to unwind and watch the sunset over the runway.
Streamlined Technology: A Modern Touch
Digital check-in and check-out are becoming increasingly important for airport hotels, especially for travelers with tight schedules. Imagine being able to check in and out without ever having to wait in line.
The Hilton app offers this very feature, allowing you to check in digitally and even use your phone as a key. While this is a great concept, it doesn’t always work as smoothly as it should.
At the HGI at Heathrow, the check-in process was smooth, but the digital key sometimes failed to work, requiring multiple attempts. The check-out process was even more frustrating, with the app failing to work entirely.
While the technology is a step in the right direction, it needs some refinement to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience for travelers.
The Essentials of a Great Airport Hotel
In the end, a great airport hotel is more than just a place to sleep. It’s a haven of comfort, convenience, and unique experiences, offering a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of air travel.
The HGI at Heathrow gets many of the essentials right, offering a comfortable and clean environment with a top-notch rooftop bar. It also provides valuable lessons for other airport hotels, demonstrating the importance of thoughtful design, user-friendly technology, and an overall welcoming atmosphere that makes travelers feel at home.
The next time you’re traveling through a busy airport, remember that a great airport hotel can be more than just a pit stop. It can be a true oasis where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy a bit of peace and quiet before continuing your journey.
