Guest Author - Kimi Ross
Microtel Inn and Suites is located a short distance from the airport on International Airport Road. Given its proximity to the airport, it is surprisingly quiet. The hotel has an adequately sized parking lot for those traveling with their own vehicles, though in the busy summer season it may be packed full. Shuttle service to the airport is available.
The rooms are average sized budget hotel rooms. The room I stayed in had two queens, a desk, television, and chair. While the room size would be adequate for a couple or even a family with a young child, it might be quite cramped for those traveling with older children. The room is clean, uncluttered and simple. In room amenities include a hair dryer and coffee maker. The bathroom provides the basic necessities, but nothing extra. Towels are standard size and bedding was comfortable. Suites with in-room refrigerator and microwave are also available at a slightly higher rate.
The free continental breakfast is available from 6 – 10 a.m. and includes muffins, bagels, cold cereal, instant oatmeal, coffee, tea and juice. It’s adequate for those who prefer a light breakfast, but may be disappointing for those who prefer heartier fare. The food bar and the dining area are on opposite sides of the front desk, which is rather inconvenient. Both areas are also very small (the dining area has only four small round tables) and could be quite crowded during peak use. Coffee and tea are available at all times.
Additional hotel amenities include free wireless internet throughout the hotel and hot tubs available 24 hours. The internet service is a strong point – when I logged on, there were actually four wireless networks with the Microtel name available, of varying signal strength. I imagine this allows guests to make a connection regardless of their location in the hotel. That’s definitely a plus, in my eyes.
As with most hotels in Anchorage, room rates vary with the season. In the off season, which runs approximately from Labor Day to Memorial Day, one can get a room for about $75 plus tax, which is on the low average. During the tourist season, rates rise to $150-160 plus tax. While this is twice the off season price, it is still on the low average side for Anchorage hotels.
Overall, I was pleased with my stay at the Microtel of Anchorage. Microtel is consistently one of the least expensive hotels in the Anchorage area. If one’s primary objective in a hotel is a good night’s sleep in a clean room before heading out for the day’s activities, the Microtel is an attractive option.
