Short and Sweet: Transit Hotel Revolution

14/11/2011 Landing place

Globe-trotters know what it's like trying to sleep coiled up on a hard plastic airport seat for hours while they await their next flight. But it doesn't have to be that way. Transit hotels are making long, multi-flight trips tolerable again, with most located in hot spots such as Asia and Middle East.

Because business depends on a heavy flow of onward-bound passengers, transit hotels are nearly exclusive to busy transfer hubs, especially in Asia. One of the most popular transit hotels is at Singapore's Changi, one of the world's busiest airports and a frequent layover spot for flights to and from Asia. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe -- its compact and clean "Yotel" hotel pods are also very popular.

These short-stay hotels are located within security checks in airports and close to terminals. Passengers can walk off the plane and check into a room to refresh between long flights. Rates at transit hotels vary but are often cheaper than at regular hotels. Minimum required stays average about six hours. Standard amenities include a bed, desk, toilet, shower and Internet access, but many premium transit hotels include gyms and spas, as well.

Transit hotels in Asia:

Ambassador Transit Hotel, Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

www.harilelahospitality.com.

Kuala Lumpur Airside Transit Hotel, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia

www.klairporthotel.com

Louis Tavern, Day Rooms and CIP lounges, Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, Thailand .

www.dayrooms-ciplounges.com