Courtyard Charlotte Airport/Billy Graham Parkway

After a delayed flight, I didn't get to Charlotte until past 10 p.m., so this hotel made sense. Check-in was quick and easy, and I was given room 512. What stood out most was how clean the room was, bathroom included. I'd also just walked in to find three staff members at three reception stations, all smiling and ready to help. Whatever they're doing is working!

The hotel has changed a lot since my last Courtyard stay, with a more modern feel from the redesigned lobby and the "Bistro" cafe area. My wife and I ended up there after American Airlines put us up for the night because of a maintenance issue on our return flight. The room was clean and comfortable, and we enjoyed our brief stay. I was pleasantly surprised by the gym. It had several ellipticals and treadmills, plus plenty of weightlifting equipment and free weights, and it rivals or even beats gyms at many full-service hotels I've stayed in. The front desk staff were friendly and efficient. Food prices seemed a little high, though there was a good variety of choices compared with what I remember from the past. It's just a few miles from the Charlotte airport, and the shuttle was efficient and on time. You'll need a car for nearby restaurants or other amenities, since there's nothing within a safe walk of the hotel. If I need an airport hotel in Charlotte again, I'd consider it for a short stay as long as I don't mind having no off-site dining close by.

The room did the job: a comfortable bed, cold AC, enough outlets to power a small NASA launch, and a desk that made me feel productive just sitting nearby. After a long day in Charlotte, it was a good mix of responsible business traveler and dad eating takeout in bed while checking email. The whole place had that clean, calm business-trip feel. The lobby smelled professional, the elevators felt important, and everyone looked like they were closing a deal or pretending to understand Q3 projections. Service was smooth, and I left rested enough to face my calendar again, even if it felt like it was bullying me. I don't always stay in Charlotte for business, but when I do, I like a hotel that gets that I'm one laptop bag away from becoming a regional vice president. Stay business casual, my friends.

We stayed overnight before a morning flight home, and the airport ride the hotel provided helped us out a lot. It's only minutes from the Charlotte airport, and check-in was quick. The room was comfortable, and the staff were friendly. I also appreciated the water near the front desk in the lobby, which smelled great when we walked in. We ate at the hotel restaurant instead of going out. The bacon burger, fries, and quesadillas were delicious. Thanks for making our night away from home comfortable.