The perfect landing
Whether you’re travelling for business or for leisure, these airport hotels will pamper you to the core
High-flyers and jet-setters will love these super-luxurious hotels found just a short walk from baggage reclaim at some of the world's most sought-after destinations.
Sofitel, London Heathrow
It's just a short stroll though the covered walkway at Terminal 5 to reach one of London's most glamorous hotels. The large bedrooms are laid out for comfort and optimal relaxation. You'll love the trademark "So" beds which feature a thick feather-mattress overlay for a perfect night's sleep. A comfy leather armchair, with matching ottoman, and a large desk round off the bedroom. You'll feel revitalised after relaxing in a hot bath or under a power shower with L'Occitane Verveine amenities. When hunger strikes, head to the stylish restaurant, La Belle Époque, for French cuisine with delightful Vietnamese influences. Try to get a room or suite on the executive floors which give you access to the executive lounge, Club Millesime, where you can hang out, read the papers, use internet and, of course, enjoy breakfast and evening canapés.
Kempinski, Munich
Weary travellers will only have to step outside the airport to find themselves standing in front of the hotel's entrance. You'll be in awe as you walk through the soaring glass atrium which is the heart of the hotel and boasts spectacular views of the runways. Rooms and suites are all spacious and designed to make your time there as peaceful and hassle free as possible. Soundproofing, blackout curtains and a sublimely comfortable bed mean sleep comes easy at any hour. Those who need to work will love the oversized desk, high-speed internet and dual phone lines. Suites come in a variety of designs, including the stunning Diplomat Suite dressed in white. The Kempinski Airport Hotel Munich also offers special Ladies' Suites, which are designed to make female guests feel more at home with fresh flowers, fruit baskets, fluffy blankets and special amenities in the rooms.
Regal, Hong Kong
Visitors relish the five-star ambience and treatment they receive at this ultramodern, 1,150-room hotel linked directly to the airport terminal. While not enjoying the comfort of the king-size bed or catching up on work at the well-equipped desk, enjoy a meal at one of the six restaurants which offer the choice of a sumptuous seafood buffet or Japanese, European, Cantonese, and Sichuan specialities. Don't miss the excellent dim sums. Revitalise your body at the OM Spa and if you are travelling with a loved one choose a couple's treatment in the open-air private garden followed by an invigorating Jacuzzi. Fancy getting married in Hong Kong? You can tie the knot in the frangipani-scented garden before going on to celebrating in the lavish ballroom.
Stamford Plaza, Sydney
Once you've checked in you'll realise why Stamford Plaza at Sydney Airport was the winner of the Best Airport Hotel in the Asia-Pacific region from Skytrax in 2011. Reserve a suite, which offers so much more space to relax. The large, comfortable living room has iPod docking, a round table which is useful for meetings, and the large flat TV can be connected to a laptop or iPhone for in-room presentations. You'll find sleep comes easily in the cosy beds and due to the triple glazing there is only the slightest rumble of aircraft. Stamford is a Singaporean chain and the Asian cuisine offered in the restaurant and room service is outstanding. When hunger strikes, order some excellent dim sums or stir-fry prawn noodles.
Fairmont, Vancouver
All you need to do to reach the Fairmont Vancouver hotel is get in the elevator from the departures terminal and head straight up. You would think the hotel's proximity to the airport would make it less than relaxing, but the entire establishment is entirely soundproof. One of the coolest things about this hotel is that they offer day-rates for those who arrive early and have an incredibly long layover. The high-tech rooms offer excellent internet connections, jet-spa bathtubs to relax weary limbs and plenty of international TV channels. Spend some time in the Jetside Lounge where you can relax with a cup of tea while contemplating the spectacular views of the airport and the mountains in the distance.
Crowne Plaza, Singapore
The Crowne Plaza at Changi has decor and an atmosphere so relaxing, you would hardly believe you're only steps away from the terminals. Check-in comes with a refreshing, cold tropical drink and guests are given pre-loaded iPods filled with soothing tunes — something anyone who's spent hours on an aircraft will appreciate. The king-size beds are made up with crisp cotton sheets and you can even choose from a variety of pillows. Roll out the yoga mat and follow along with a relaxing exercise routine on the in-house TV channel. When hunger strikes, Azur is a 24-hour option and features an enticing lunch buffet. The sumptuous Imperial Treasure restaurant offers excellent dim Shanghai xiao long bao dumplings. Those with time on their hands can relax by the outdoor pool surrounded by palm trees and flowers.
- Scott Adams is a Madrid-based freelance writer
