Airport hotels sometimes unfairly get a bad rap. They are often associated with having no character, bad food and a lack of things to do. However, this isn't always the case. There are a number of award-winning, highly rated airport hotels scattered throughout the world that are guaranteed to rival the experience you might have at a luxury resort. Next time you're jetsetting, consider breaking up your journey and booking a room at one of the airport hotels below - you're sure to be impressed.
Langham Place Hotel, Beijing
A hotel that prides itself on its elegance and wow factor, the Langham Place Hotel in Beijing epitomises the term 'stylish'. First, let's talk convenience: The airport is just a quick shuttle ride away from Beijing Capital Airport, and a 15-minute bus right from the centre of Beijing. Now for the fun stuff: the hotel's amenities and dining options. Langham Place Hotel boasts more than 370 fashionably decorated guest rooms, each with a marble-adorned bathroom and floor-to-ceiling windows. If you're hungry, you can head to Ming Court, Fuel, Portal or The Place, all of which offer delectable cuisine. If you're in need of a nightcap, head to the Club L Lounge, a 24-hour club on-site.
Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, Singapore
Singapore's Crowne Plaza Changi Airport Hotel gives you some of the best accommodation Singapore has to offer. It's located a stone's throw from the airport, but you'd never know it thanks to its serene environment. The hotel is even connected to the airport via a link bridge - so if you'd like, you can essentially walk from your hotel room to Terminal 3 to catch your flight. The hotel has plenty of great amenities to boot. An on-site spa gives guests the opportunity to treat themselves to facials, body wraps, reflexology treatments, scrubs, manicures and pedicures, and other pampering treatments. Stop in at renowned restaurants Azur and Imperial Treasure to get a taste of Singapore.
Regal Airport Hotel, Hong Kong
If you're travelling to Hong Kong, you'll want to stay in a hotel that's consistent with the city's reputation for excitement. Regal Airport Hotel in Hong Kong has been consistently rated as one of the world's top hotels by sources such as Skytrax, Business Traveller and World Luxury Spa Awards. Not only that, its sustainability initiatives have garnered the attention of a variety of environmental organisations. The Regal Airport Hotel has a lot to offer its guests. A luxurious spa, both indoor and outdoor pool facilities, 30 venues (including a grand ballroom), and a whopping six restaurants and bars are just a few highlights. The best part? The hotel is by link bridge connected to the airport, making transportation between the two areas comfortable and convenient.
Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel, Vancouver
Imagine the most conveniently located airport hotel possible. So convenient, in fact, that's it's actually located within your airport. That's what you get with the Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel. Not only is it literally as close to your departure gate as it's possible to be, it's a stylish, luxurious and glamorous hotel. The suites here are so comfortable, they barely even feel like hotel rooms. Stop by the Jetside Bar for a few cocktails or enjoy afternoon tea between 2 and 4:30 p.m.
Custom Hotel, Los Angeles
Custom Hotel in Los Angeles may be the hippest option on our list. The Custom Hotel's retro-inspired decor (think hotel staff dressed as '60s-era flight attendants) is just one of the reason's 20- and 30-somethings are attracted to the hotel. Other reasons include the hotel's gaming lounge, communal tables, WiFi, five lounges and on-site restaurant. The interior decor and retro charm of Custom Hotel are hard to beat, but they might be outdone by the hotel's location. The beach is just half a mile down the road, which makes it easy to enjoy SoCal's fantastic weather while you're here. If you're an avid golfer, you'll be pleased to know that you can perfect your swing at a course situated within walking distance of the hotel. In fact, there are a number of shopping destinations, entertainment options and authentic California eateries located just a stone's throw from the hotel.
Hilton Frankfurt Airport Hotel, Frankfurt
The Hilton Frankfurt Airport Hotel is an award-winning establishment located in the bustling German city of Frankfurt. Connected to the airport via link bridge, the hotel boasts a convenient location that's unrivaled by any of the other hotels in the area - it sits atop the InnerCity Express (ICE) railway system, giving you easy access to downtown Frankfurt. In fact, it's just a 15-minute ride to the heart of town. The hotel is located in the well-known The Squaire building, a signature piece of Frankfurt's architecture. If you're here for work, get things done in the business lounge, which is open 24 hours a day. The hotel also offers a ballroom, cocktail lounge, international restaurant and 24-hour fitness centre. You don't have to take our word that this place is great - it's a five star-rated resort.
Novotel Muenchen Airport Hotel, Munich
Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is one of the most fascinating cities in Europe (if you're here on business, we want to know what you do for a living). Enjoying the city is easy when you're staying at Novotel Muenchen Airport Hotel. The hotel offers easy transportation into the heart of Munich as well as Freising, but you might not even need to venture out of your hotel. Enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, have a round of al fresco cocktails on the outdoor terrace or stop in at the lobby bar. The hotel also offers a sauna, gaming room and fitness centre.
Hyatt Place Amsterdam Airport Hotel, Amsterdam
Staying in Amsterdam should be an experience that's as unique as the city itself. Located just 5 km from Schiphol Airport, The Hyatt Place Amsterdam Airport Hotel is a great place to stay in exciting Amsterdam. The hotel contains 330 rooms each decorated to the nines with stylish fixtures and furniture. Need to get into town? The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service into town, making transit into Amsterdam convenient and quick. The Hyatt Place also boasts a variety of amenities and facilities, including a 24-hour fitness centre, free-to-use public computers, WiFi and an on-site cafe.
Radisson Blu Sky City, Zurich
The Radisson Blu Sky City may be surrounded by a city that's associated with beauty, luxury and fine things, but you really don't need to leave this hotel to get a taste of Swiss style. The hotel's stunning decor - including its wow-worthy lighting fixtures - makes it a gem of an airport hotel. Case and point? The 16-metre high Angels' Wine Tower, a wine bar encased in clear glass located right in the heart of the hotel. The hotel offers 330 rooms, each decorated with stylish fabrics and furniture. Amenities here include two fitness centres, a fine Italian dining restaurant, 52 meeting rooms and direct access to Zurich Airport.
See? We told you staying in an airport hotel doesn't have to be boring. By staying at one of these incredible venues, you're sure to have an authentic travel experience just minutes from your airport.
