Ibis Budget Carcassonne Aeroport - A61

We were happy with this Ibis budget Carcassonne. The lobby has hot and cold water for tea and a microwave to warm food, which was handy. We’d recently stayed at another Ibis budget in Germany that had neither. The hotel looks new and is well kept, too.

The room was basic but quite nice, though the top bunk over the double hadn't been made. My husband and son had to sort it out themselves, which housekeeping should have done. I had only one very flat pillow and was struggling to sleep, so I asked for extra ones. The young dark-haired man at reception tutted, shook his head, and looked at me with disdain. He seemed unhappy to be there, and kept going outside to vape even though he was the only staff member on duty. It's handy for the airport, but there isn't much nearby for food or a drink. A pub, bar, restaurant or shop would help. The vending machine was a poor option, with just chocolate and drinks. Since guests are stuck there, they could offer drinks and hot snacks at the bar. When we arrived, the same unwelcoming staff member couldn't find our booking until my husband wrote down his name. One night is plenty. Bring snacks, drinks, and pillows!

The industrial area isn't charming, but it was neither noisy nor polluted, and being near the airport was useful. For a budget hotel, there was more than I expected: reception were friendly and helpful, and suggested places for dinner. Just don't expect tea or coffee in the rooms.

We stayed here because we had an early flight from Carcassonne airport the next morning. The receptionist was really helpful and gave us lots of tips about the area and which restaurants might be worth a visit. I wish we had hotels like this in Ireland. The rooms were spotless, simple and small, as you'd expect at this price. Having USB chargers alongside the regular sockets was handy for all the gadgets we travel with now.