Affordable luxury: an impressive new hotel opens at Sydney Airport

It is rare to stay at a hotel with rooms that have been designed with typical guests in mind.

We are all familiar with having to search around the floor and behind the bed for power points, being baffled by multiple light switches and being scalded by badly-designed showers.

The rooms at the brand-new Mantra at Sydney Airport, which was officially unveiled today, are smartly designed for today's airport visitor.

There's fast, free wifi, several well-positioned power points and USB chargers, light switches that are easily reached from the bed, and a shower that is simplicity itself.

I'm already won over before you throw in the fact that the bed is comfortable, the towels a good size and the toiletries of excellent quality.

Add in the fact that the Mantra is the closest hotel to Sydney's domestic terminal, that many of the rooms have runway views and the lobby and eatery (think dishes like salt and pepper squid, or 250-gram fillet steak with mash and veggies) are bright and attractive. Ladies and gentlemen we have a winner.

Prices start at $159 for an aviation-themed double room - a bargain given Sydney hotel tariffs.

The new Mantra was officially opened by New South Wales Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Adam Marshall MP and Mantra Group Chief Executive Officer Bob East said the new 136-room property provides much-needed hotel capacity to support the growth of aviation and tourism in the Sydney basin.

“Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport addresses the demand for contemporary airport accommodation with vibrant, dynamic facilities and a slick service culture,” East said. "The key factors for a new hotel are location, product and service and even just a week after the soft opening, this property already feels right.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Sydney Airport on this project, which is a win for the economic growth of Sydney.”

The eight-storey landmark building is the newest hotel at Sydney Airport and Sydney’s third on-airport hotel.

.
Sydney Airport Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kerrie Mather said the opening of the new hotel so close to terminals would further improve the customer experience for airport visitors. It takes just nine minutes to walk to terminals 2 and three - I tried it.

Mantra Hotel has an integrated reception and lobby with a 24/7 atmosphere and service, express check-out, internet kiosk, airport screen updates and relaxed dining with local beers (including Young Henry's), wines (the selection by the glass is too small and needs attention), as well as cocktails.

Other teething problems included a slow check-in and the non-appearance of the morning newspaper I ordered. All easily solvable.

There is an opening special of $159 per night in a Studio King room including 1GB of internet access daily, a welcome drink voucher on arrival and room upgrade (subject to availability).

For bookings or further information, visit MantraHotels.com or call 1300 987 603.

# The author was a guest of Mantra Hotels