The biggest nuisance with flying is getting to and from the airport, especially for an early flight. I therefore tend to try to stay at airport hotels to avoid the dreaded shuttle bus nightmare. It probably isn’t a nightmare at all, but in my head and at some ungodly hour in the morning, my brain tells me it will be so.
To my consternation on a recent long haul trip, I was disappointed that my usual suspects couldn’t accommodate me, so I stayed at the Crowe Plaza hotel, a whole 10/15 minute drive from Gatwick. Of course, to me, it might have well have been as far away as the moon, but it just goes to show how prejudiced you can be. APH do a meet and greet service, which, from my perspective, is exactly like the service offered by the other hotels on the airport and by the likes of Purple Parking.
I drove to the hotel, stayed overnight, drove my car to the airport in the morning and was met at departures. When I arrived back a week later, my car was waiting for me, even though my flight was delayed.
Being some distance away from the airport, this modern hotel is much quieter and the room felt spacious. There was a comfortable king-size bed in the spotless clubroom and air conditioning. Included in the clubroom rate is free Wi-Fi, use of the club lounge and breakfast. The colour scheme was an attractive warm aubergine, beige and bronze, cleverly managing not to be too corporate or impersonal. Dark wood also leant an air of sophistication. Ideal for working, there was a large desk and a directional reading light by the bed. Self-serve hot drinks were available and a robe with slippers. The small bathroom was perfectly adequate with a shower over the bath. Lighting was good for make-up and shaving and there was also a magnifying mirror. Quality toiletries and a box of tissues leant the finishing touch.
Add to that a peaceful night’s sleep and a seamless trip to the airport and it was an altogether good experience.
I didn’t get a chance to try out the spa and fitness room or the restaurants, but I have a feeling I will be visiting again to put that right.
Book directly with the hotel or through APH.
Services spa, fitness equipment, parking, hotel restaurant, hotel bar, room service, business services, internet access, air-conditioning
Useful links
Crowne Plaza Gatwick