Early flights are a necessary evil. Firstly they enable one to get to business meetings in Europe on time. Secondly, if you’re a holiday maker, an early flight is just part of the process of getting a cheaper flight. If you are flying from Stansted, the early-morning agony can be relieved somewhat by staying overnight at the airport. There are several advantages to be had: if you stay at the Radisson Blu, it’s only a two minute walk to the terminal, so you don’t even have to worry about airport transfers.
The drive to Stansted can be at any time you like after lunch the previous day, so you can time your trip to avoid the worst the M25 can throw at you, either before rush hour or after. When you arrive, you leave your car key at reception, your car is taken care of and is ready for you on your return.
The Radisson is a modern hotel with smart décor and the things that matter: a comfortable king-size bed with ample pillows, power shower, mini bar, room service, two restaurants on site and free Wi-Fi in the room. My room had a view of the runway so it might bring out the plane spotter in you. I did enjoy a wonderful sunset and was able to work quite comfortably with the free internet access; an added bonus. Downstairs is the open plan lounge and Tower Angels Bar with human “flying angels” fetching wine from a perpendicular column holding 4000 bottles. It is still very much an airport hotel, but this unusual touch moves it out of the ordinary somewhat. A pool and a spa with beauty treatments on offer (pre-booking essential) means further relaxation is possible before your flight.
Since I like to start the day feeling refreshed and not stressed, I tried this out on a recent early flight to Cologne. Getting up at 6am instead of 3am is a lot more civilised and this will be the way for me in future when I fly out of Stansted. Radisson and the car park people, APH are able to offer special deals for staying at the hotel and leaving your car. Problem sorted.
An overnight stay costs from £129.00 including 8 days parking. To book visit www.aph.com or call 01342 859515
Waltham Close, Stansted Airport , Essex, UK
Cost standard double room: ££, family room: £££
Services spa, swimming pool, fitness equipment, parking, hotel restaurant, hotel bar, room service, business services, internet access, wheelchair accessible, air-conditionin