Courtyard or Hilton Garden Inn preflight?

Question

HI all- We have an early am flight out of Logan next week, and due to the stress of worrying about parking at Logan express in Braintree, and a long day of travel ahead, we decided to do a park and fly by the airport. Hilton right there has no availability with parking, but I was able to snag both the Courtyard and Hilton Garden Inn at great rates. Here is the rub. Courtyard is a little closer, but reviews are horrible (sanitary things - bed bugs, etc), while the HGI has good reviews, except for issues with the shuttle (timeliness, sometimes full so have to wait for next one, etc.). Wonder if anyone has experience with either one. Have till weekend to cancel one we won't use. We have rewards programs at both.

Answer

When choosing between the Courtyard and Hilton Garden Inn for a pre-flight stay near Logan Airport, there are a few factors to consider based on your priorities.

Here’s a breakdown of both options:

Courtyard by Marriott: - Proximity: It’s closer to Logan Airport, which is ideal if you’re looking for convenience and a quick shuttle ride to the airport. - Cons: The main downside is the negative reviews regarding cleanliness and maintenance issues, including complaints about bed bugs. These are serious concerns, especially before a flight. If you prioritize cleanliness and comfort, you may want to proceed cautiously or avoid it based on the reviews.
Hilton Garden Inn: - Proximity: The Hilton Garden Inn is also close to the airport, although a little farther than the Courtyard. - Pros: The reviews for cleanliness and comfort are generally better. Guests appreciate the quality of the rooms and the overall experience. - Cons: Some guests have noted issues with the shuttle service, including timeliness and full shuttles. This could be a minor inconvenience, especially if you’re on a tight schedule, but it’s a common issue with many airport hotels. If you plan to leave early, you may want to ensure that the shuttle is available well in advance, or consider taking a taxi or ride-sharing service if needed.

If cleanliness and comfort are your top priorities, the Hilton Garden Inn seems like the better option, despite the shuttle concerns. On the other hand, if being closer to the airport is crucial and you don’t mind taking a bit of a risk with cleanliness (and can handle potential shuttle delays), the Courtyard could still be a viable option.

Since both properties offer rewards programs, you'll still get the benefits regardless of your choice. Ultimately, if you’re comfortable with the reviews of the Hilton Garden Inn and can plan your shuttle time properly, it may offer a more relaxing pre-flight experience.

Hope this helps with your decision!