Imagine this: you’re surrounded by the hustle and bustle of a bustling international airport, with thousands of passengers and countless flights taking off and landing. But amidst the chaos, you find an oasis of calm – a great airport hotel offering respite and tranquility.
While some may see an airport hotel as just a temporary stop, a means to an end before an early flight, a truly great airport hotel is something special. It’s a sanctuary where you can relax and unwind, even if just for a few hours. But what makes an airport hotel truly stand out? Let’s explore some key ingredients!
Comfort is King
The foundation of a great airport hotel is a comfortable and pleasant room. This shouldn’t be a challenging concept, yet surprisingly, many hotels fall short. After all, you likely won’t be venturing out much, so your room becomes your temporary home. Newer properties are often a safe bet, with their modern amenities and fresh designs. Big hotel chains like Hilton typically deliver on the essentials: soft beds, spacious TVs, and decent showers.
The Power of Convenience
Being stuck in an airport hotel, especially with odd arrival or departure times, calls for a seamless and convenient experience. Think multiple power outlets, strategically placed near your desk, so you can charge your devices without hassle. USB outlets are a lifesaver, eliminating the need for adapters. Ideally, you want to be able to effortlessly turn off the lights and power up your gadgets without a second thought. While the HGI at Heathrow excelled with USB outlets, it fell short with the lack of universal power outlets.
Windows to the World
Imagine waking up to breathtaking views of the runway, witnessing the magic of modern aviation unfolding right before your eyes. Even if you’re not an aviation enthusiast, the spectacle of a busy air hub, with its promise of distant adventures, can be captivating. While the HGI at Heathrow boasts a prime location, its narrow windows and thick walls unfortunately obstructed some of the views. Nevertheless, the spectacular vista from the higher floors made it a winner overall.
A Rooftop Oasis: Escape the Airport Grind
The HGI at London Heathrow Terminal 2 offers a unique gem: a rooftop bar with panoramic airport views. This relaxing haven allows you to escape the airport’s hectic energy and soak in the sights. Enjoy a drink, watch the sunset, and marvel at the planes taking off and landing – a perfect spot for aviation enthusiasts and casual observers alike. While the outdoor area was closed during my visit, its potential to offer even more stunning views is exciting.
Digital Efficiency: A Double-Edged Sword
In today’s digital world, seamless check-in and check-out are crucial, especially at an airport hotel where every minute counts. The Hilton app offers digital keycards, theoretically eliminating the need for queues and offering convenience. However, in practice, the digital keycard system at this hotel needs improvement. While checking in on the phone was smooth, getting the elevator and room door to recognize the digital key was a bit of a struggle. Additionally, the inability to check out using the app was frustrating, especially during a busy morning.
The Essence of a Great Airport Hotel
The Hilton Garden Inn at Heathrow’s Terminal 2, despite its minor shortcomings, manages to get many of the fundamentals right. A clean and comfortable environment, convenient amenities, and a unique rooftop bar offer respite from the airport chaos. It reminds us that a truly great airport hotel is not simply a place to sleep; it’s a haven for relaxation, rejuvenation, and even a bit of awe. Ultimately, it’s about offering a space where you can momentarily escape the travel frenzy and appreciate the wonder of flight.
