The Phoenix Airport Marriott Hotel is about as interesting as the name suggests. It’s a Marriott and it’s near the airport. The rooms are large and comfortable, the staff friendly and helpful, but it’s probably much like any other Marriott hotel at a US airport.
Three of us checked in at the same time and were assisted by three different desk staff at the reception, making it a very quick and easy process. Our room was large, bright, and initially seemed airy. It looked out over the car park at the front of the hotel, which offers ample parking for guests. Unfortunately the room was hermetically sealed with no way to open a window. I’d recommend asking for a room overlooking the pool at the back with a balcony as relying on a/c for airflow makes for a stuffy atmosphere, especially over the course of three days.
We did appreciate the roominess though. Working in film production I usually travel with a lot of gear and baggage and having a wide hallway and roomy office area was a bonus. As with so many expensive hotels these days, Wi-Fi connection costs $9.95 a day. I find it a bit gross that these big hotel chains tack on so many extra charges when you’re already paying too much for the room as it is. Apparently it wasn’t even free in the hotel lobby either. The only computer service they don’t seem to charge for is printing out boarding passes for onward flights.
The lobby extends into a lounge and bar area, which became quite lively in the evenings. We tried a chicken wrap for lunch at their bar and was impressed by the size of the portions (easily big enough for two to share) and fast service.
I also used the outdoor pool a couple of times. It’s located at the back of the hotel behind the gym and if you don’t make it out until after sunset there’s a nice hot tub to warm up in.
On our final night, we had an early morning check out so I pre-ordered breakfast-to-go, which was delivered to our room. We got a big box of delicious fresh cut fruit, which included melon, blackberries, strawberries and pineapple, as well as a pot of yogurt with granola and a soft bagel with cream cheese.
If you want a hassle-free stay for business or pleasure then this Marriott hotel is well equipped to provide everything you need. The rooms are clean, comfortable, quiet and spacious. The location is uninspiring but obviously handy for getting to and from the airport and isn’t too far from downtown Phoenix either.
www.marriott.com