Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Ottawa Airport by IHG

The staff are what make this Holiday Inn stand out from the others I’ve stayed at. The hotel manager was fantastic at check-in, which went smoothly, and he even treated our kids to snacks from the lobby fridge. Our room was clean and updated, though the TV was dated. It worked fine. Breakfast was the usual Holiday Inn hot tray selection, plentiful and delicious. The location seemed good, but we weren’t flying out of YOW, so we didn’t use the shuttle or get a chance to try the airport-related features.

I barely slept during our stay because a hockey team was on the same floor. The kids shouted and slammed doors late at night and early in the morning, and the staff didn't deal with it despite repeated complaints. Customer support didn't act either while we were there. It made for a really terrible experience, and I wouldn't recommend this hotel.

We were stranded for two nights, and Ashraf made check-in so much easier. He was happy to put our frozen meat in the onsite freezer. The breakfast team were friendly and helpful, and when I mentioned the pancake machine had run out of batter, it was refilled within five minutes. The guest laundry was a nice extra, and they also gave us a two-hour late checkout without hesitation. I can't say enough good things about the staff at this Holiday Inn Express.

The rear parking lot was the only option for us since our truck needed to be plugged in. It was disappointing that both back doors were locked, with no access from the lot, and the area hadn't been shovelled. The side doors had been cleared somewhat and were accessible. The hotel itself was average for the price, clean, and had a fine breakfast, nothing special but enough to fill you up. I'd come back.