Hotel Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Airport (Mississauga, Canada)

Aware that whilst travelling new arrivals are often exhausted and have frayed nerves, understanding receptionists are soft-spoken and super-efficient at checking tired guests into their rooms. A number of early arrivals have delighted at being given their room key despite it being before the official checking-in time.

Whether coming or going from here, the majority of guests do so by shuttle—a complimentary transfer service to and from the terminals. Running reliably every 30 minutes, the shuttle ride is timely and takes only minutes, while friendly drivers are themselves a breath of fresh air.

Reviewers are routinely impressed with the tastefully-presented breakfast buffet each morning. With an array of hot and cold items, including made-to-order eggs, a waffle station and huge selection of fresh fruit, there is something to please all palates. Morning staff are singled out for their outstanding attitudes.

While the designers of this airport hotel have gone to great lengths to soundproof the rooms against the roar of passing planes, old air-con units are equally loud, frequently disturbing light sleepers. Oftentimes, travellers preparing for a long-haul flight are denied rest when they need it most.

One bugbear of reviewers is the hotel’s isolated location. The surrounds are drab and industrial, therefore guests are often forced to spend their time within the confines of the hotel. This minor inconvenience becomes major when the in-house restaurant is closed, as alternative dining options are limited.

Negative reviews for this hotel are at a premium. Occasionally, a guest will gripe about parking charges, a hard mattress, old fitness equipment or a less-than-perfect interaction with a staff member, but such instances are isolated and don’t detract from the excellence experienced by most.