The ultimate transit stay: Holiday Inn Sydney Airport

Newly refurbished, the Holiday Inn Sydney Airport offers ideal accommodation for families enroute to their next travel destination, writes Cathy Wagstaff.

The HWK factor

Holiday Inn Sydney Airport is conveniently located by Kingsford Smith International Airport and only 15 minutes by train to the city centre. It is also exceptional value for families – as kids under 12 stay and eat for free. Just a few of the reasons why it makes our list of best airport hotels in Australia for families.

First impressions

Reception is open 24 hours, making check-in a breeze any time of day. A recent multi-million-dollar renovation has refreshed all the rooms of the hotel. The new fit-out has plush carpets, crisp linen and a warm interior decor.

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Why kids love it

The little ones will love the Kids’ Check-In Station, free creative kids’ packs and kids’ play corners in the lobby and restaurant. While parents will love the convenience of the hotel’s location while in transit. With a private airport shuttle, wake up calls, to a concierge to pre-book your taxi for early flights for a hassle-free trip.

Stepping out

There are several kid-friendly activities in the area. Go bowling at the Manhattan Superbowl, enjoy the arcade games at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq or visit the ever-popular Grounds of Alexandria. With Central Station just 15 minutes away by train, you have the whole of Sydney within easy reach.

The rooms

I stayed in a freshly updated King Bed Superior room, complete with a modern bathroom. It was more spacious than a standard airport hotel, and the walk-in rain shower added a deluxe touch. The room is designed with comfort in mind: from the king bed to the soundproofed windows and blackout curtains. Rooms boast a 55-inch TV and Nespresso machine. Families can spread out across twin rooms which sleep up to four people with two queen beds. Or a king room with a sofa bed that can be made up for the kids. For larger groups, there is also interconnecting rooms available.

Dining

Two onsite restaurants tick all the meal boxes. Sirocco Restaurant for breakfast (from 6:30am) offers a wide spread of hot and continental buffet options with complimentary espresso. Biggles Bar & Grill is open from lunchtime, serving pub classics like steaks, salads and burgers. I opted for a perfectly grilled salmon steak and a side of steamed vegetables. You can grab a late bite as they are open until 10pm. A Little Big Travellers menu that is made for the kids. Meanwhile, room service is available 24 hours offering a selection of the Biggles menu.

Insiders’ tips

Holiday Inn Sydney Airport offers a Park, Stay and Go package with secure onsite parking for up to 15 nights. The carpark also has space for caravans and RVs. The package includes breakfast and return airport transfers. All Holiday Inn properties are part of the IHG One Rewards Club. Membership will grant you access to exclusive rates, points and promotions, and late checkout.

Overall experience

With stylish rooms with all the latest mod cons, the hotel was the perfect rest stop before my 4am flight. Easy airport transfers arranged by the in-house team made for a seamless and stress-free onward journey.

Where to find Holiday Inn Sydney Airport

Holiday Inn Sydney Airport hotel is just 450 metres from Mascot Station and a 15-minute train ride from Sydney CBD. Sydney airport is five minutes by car from the hotel or 10 minutes via private airport shuttle.

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