Sofitel London Heathrow

High style, delectable dining, and unbeatable convenience make this modern airport hotel a standout. A short walk via a bridge from Terminal 5, the Sofitel London Heathrow puts you close enough to watch the planes take off for exotic locales, but insulates you from the noisy hubub. As a meeting destination, Sofitel Heathrow's location make it an easy in-and-out for far-flung business travelers. A 20-minute express train puts you in central London. Take a photo tour of Sofitel London Heathrow

My room was modern and comfortable with a small, well appointed bathroom and a window overlooking an interior atrium. A separate bathtub and shower, plus a TV, were nice touches; it would have been challenging for two people to get ready at the single vanity at one time.

Guest rooms range from a Classic with two single beds to the Imperial Suite with its stunning Swarovski crystal bathroom.

All guest rooms have the fabulously comfortable Sofitel MyBed, furniture by Hugo Boss, Hermes amenities and a U.S. electrical outlet above the desk.

Vivre's casual fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner from open kitchens representing fifteen different cooking styles. A Brasserie Roux outpost featuring Albert Roux's renowned French regional cuisine. More from London Travel, Tea 5, traditional English tea along with homemade pastries (tiny Madeleines, dipped in chocolate, are addictive) in a modern, open space. Bar Sphere, off the lobby, glows blue at night; the fireplace is itself a work of modern art and an inviting spot in which to linger. The Library Bar is the place to try a refreshingly citrus Pimms Royal or a Rob Roy with 10-year-old Talisker.

The small but full-service ESPA is worth a visit just to enjoy the hydro pool room with its ceiling of fiber optic lights; you'll also find five treatment rooms, a 24-hour gym, sauna and steamroom. The largest meeting facility at Heathrow (and one of the largest in all of Europe) has 45 meeting rooms situated around a zen garden. A 117-seat tiered theater with leather seats is available for presentations and screening; it can handle live voting and translations.

Day packages are available at the spa for travelers going in or out of Terminal 5, even it you aren't a hotel guest. To save money on meals, find packaged, pre-cooked gourmet meals and snacks at M&S Simply Food in Terminal 5; store them in your room's mini-fridge. Decor is by Khuan Chew, whose interiors include the Sultan of Brunai's Palace, Dubai International Airport and the Four Seasons Hong Kong. Rates that include breakfast, Internet access and/or airport parking are available.