I have to tell you a little secret. Sometimes we stay at airport hotels, even when we’re not going anywhere. It’s true. Calgary’s new selection of airport hotels offer that feeling of a vacation, but the ease of staying in the city you know and love. But the area’s newest hotel, the Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel is in a class all of its own and whether you’re looking for a unique experience in your backyard or want to get a step ahead of a relaxing vacation abroad, it likely doesn’t get much better than this.
I had never actually stayed in a hotel right in the airport before, especially when flying out the next morning. So with a trip to California in the books, I thought it’d be fun to try. When I checked into the Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel, in a way, I was almost just as thrilled to check out, because I was so excited to see how much more relaxing travel would be when you don’t have to worry about an early morning commute or crisscrossing endless parking lots.
But checking out was only going to be part of the fun. The Marriott is brand new hotel, which means that it features all the modern amenities were used to at home, like Netfix and enough plugins for all your gadgets, a practical requirement when you’re getting ready for a trip.
The hotel is also surprisingly quiet, especially considering planes fly right over it. Our room faced directly onto the runway and the only noise I heard were a few beeps from trucks, but never any planes. And worry not, I was told that no one from the tarmac can see into the rooms, so feel free to enjoy the privacy of your room, without worrying that you’re on display for travelers from all over the world.
The rooms also come equipped with a telescope, perfect for watching planes land and take off. I’ve never been the type to just sit and watch the planes, but I found it surprisingly relaxing and interesting. I’d check out the planes from the telescope then use the airport’s website to see if I could figure out where they were coming from. It’s really special to be reminded that people from all over the world come to Calgary every day.
Another shining feature of the hotel is the Yakima Social Kitchen + Bar. Which is beautifully designed and offers up amazing food. Seriously, even if you’re not staying at the hotel, plan to check into your flight a little early and treat yourself to dinner here. You’ll be glad you did. The restaurant also gets a ton of points for its all-Calgary beer selection, something I don’t think I’ve ever seen before. They deserve a lot of credit for going the extra-mile to showcase Calgary’s amazing beer scene.
After a peaceful night sleep, it was indeed time to check out and you know what, I really loved walking about two minute to check into our flight. How can you not? While staying the night at the airport before your flight can feel like a bit of a splurge, sometimes it’s worth it in more ways than one!
