A less-than-perfect Christmas flight itinerary meant that I had to overnight near the Ottawa airport. I needed a hotel convenient to Ottawa International Airport, and the best rate was at the Hilton Garden Inn. I booked through Expedia, which I rarely do, but it was efficient, and there was little difference in the rates.

The hotel's shuttle arrived within 5 minutes of my calling the hotel, and the check-in was swift (it was midnight). I arranged a 0500 wake-up call. The room was spacious and clean, and though was warmer than I typically like I was too tired to care. I did, however, take the time to set the room's radio alarm, as a back-up wake-up. And it was good that I did this, as the wake-up call from the front-desk never materialised.

Check-out was swift, and the shuttle to the airport left a few minutes after I arrived in the lobby.

I did not use any of the hotel's other amenities.

In summary - if you are facing a layover in Ottawa, this hotel, though not a bargain, will suit your needs. There are no cheap rooms near the airport, so your only other option is sleeping at the airport.

We stayed at the Garden ilton because of its proximity to the Ottawa airport as well as its Park & Ride Service. The hotel has decided to cancel this service which makes it more awkward if one is driving. However, the hotel is very nice - the service is great - the rooms were quiet and the beds comfortable. We had dinner at the resturant and the meal was good - the roast lamb was special.

Rooms are very large - heating and air conditioning completely silent. Fridge and micro-wave and a really comfortable desk/chair combo. Super-comfy beds (mine was king-size). Free wifi (and I did not notice slow speeds, perhaps this problem was fixed).

I was in the area to visit friends and family over Christmas, but would select this hotel for future visits. Just minutes from the airport but zero sound from airport or nearby roads.

Front desk and restaurant staff were very friendly and helpful - it was almost like staying with friends. Didn't have time to try their pool or fitness setup.

First for the good: The staff here is amazing -- so courteous and professional. I was greeted with warmth and enthusiasm. Everyone I come in contact with demonstrates a genuine desire to make my stay wonderful.

My room is quite large with a high ceiling. The HVAC is effective yet totally silent. Having a fridge and microwave is always welcome. There are plenty of AC outlets on or at the desktop. I slept quite comfortably on the king bed which has adjustable firmness on both sides. Probably the biggest surprise is that I didn't hear one ounce of noise from the airport even though I can throw a rock and hit the end of the runway. Finally, the onsite restaurant is remarkably good. I highly recommend the Cuban sandwich.

That's where the good ends. Here's what cost two stars from an otherwise perfect score:

The bathroom fan and light are on the same switch. This is one of my biggest pet peeves. Either put the fan on a separate switch or install a centralized (read: SILENT) exhaust duct system. I don't want to hear the fan rattling away each and every time I turn on the bathroom light. Further, the switch plate on the wall has a blank side implying that there was once two switches where there is now one. What's up with that?

Another thing that strips my gears a road warrior: Slow internet. I could tie notes to a carrier pigeon and exchange information faster than this property's internet speed during evening hours. Plus, the requirement for daily authentication is supremely irritating. You'll be right in the middle of something and BANG! no internet connection until you open a new browser and try to go somewhere new in order to trigger the authentication page. Guests should be allowed to authenticate for a WEEK at a time, at least on the wired connections.

When staying here, you might want to avoid room 101. It has a stunning view of the smoking area outside the hotel lobby. Nothing I enjoy more than opening the drapes in the morning to see freezing smokers milling about like vagrants at the bus station. It's really creepy seeing people standing right outside your window like that.