Imagine booking an airport hotel for a crucial early morning flight, only to find yourself in a room that feels more like a prison cell. This was the grim reality for one travel writer who braved a stay at the Ibis Budget London Gatwick Airport, a hotel consistently panned by critics and crowned with a dismal one-star rating.
Venturing into the reception, the first red flag was the overpowering smell of stale cigarettes, a clear violation of the hotel's no-smoking policy. The check-in process was a foretaste of the discomfort to come, setting the tone for what would be a truly unforgettable night.
A Room of One's Own... Regrets
The assigned room was a masterclass in minimalist misery. The entire space was dominated by an unforgiving, rock-hard bunk bed, leaving barely enough room to swing a carry-on bag. The walls were so thin that every cough, snore, and conversation from neighbouring rooms became part of the unwanted audio accompaniment.
The much-hyped 'private bathroom' was a plastic pod reminiscent of an airplane toilet, crammed into the corner. The shower? A leaky, mould-spotted affair that offered little respite from the surrounding gloom.
No Rest for the Weary
Hoping for at least a few hours of fitful sleep proved to be a futile endeavour. The constant roar of aircraft engines provided a relentless soundtrack throughout the night, while the lumpy pillows and paper-thin mattress made comfort a distant dream. It was less a good night's sleep and more a prolonged wait for dawn to break.
The Verdict: Is It Really The Worst?
While the price point is undeniably low, the experience begs the question: is any amount of savings worth this level of discomfort? For travellers seeking a mere horizontal surface before a flight, it might barely suffice. However, for anyone valuing a modicum of comfort, hygiene, or a decent night's sleep, this hotel is a cautionary tale.
The title of 'world's worst' is fiercely contested, but the Ibis Budget Gatwick makes a compelling case for the crown. This stay serves as a stark reminder that when it comes to travel, sometimes you truly do get what you pay for.
