Planning a trip to Tampa and need a hotel near the airport? The DoubleTree by Hilton Tampa Airport - Westshore is a frequently considered option. I recently stayed there, and this review will give you the honest truth – the good, the bad, and the pragmatic. We'll cover everything from the rooms and amenities to the often-discussed parking situation, providing a balanced perspective to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your trip.
Location: Airport Proximity – A Blessing and a Curse?
The DoubleTree's prime selling point is its undeniable proximity to Tampa International Airport (TPA). The free 24-hour shuttle is a lifesaver, especially after a long flight. No stressful taxi hunts or surge-priced rideshares! This is a massive advantage for business travelers and anyone prioritizing seamless airport access. However, this convenience comes with a potential trade-off: airport noise. While not excessively loud, the sound of planes taking off and landing might be noticeable, especially in rooms facing the runways. Requesting a room away from the runways during booking is highly recommended. Wouldn't you agree that a peaceful night’s sleep after a journey is invaluable?
Rooms and Amenities: Standard Comfort, but Lacking Detail
The rooms themselves meet the expected Hilton standard: clean, functional, and comfortable. You'll find comfortable beds, a flat-screen TV, a workspace, and complimentary Wi-Fi. It's a solid base for a short stay, providing all the essentials. The air conditioning worked flawlessly, a critical feature in Tampa's humid climate. However, the online descriptions are disappointingly vague. Beyond the basics, details are scarce. Don't assume features like microwaves or mini-fridges are standard; call the hotel directly to confirm. Wouldn't it be frustrating to arrive and find that essential amenities are missing or absent?
Dining: Airport Fare – Predictable, but Not Exceptional
The hotel has two on-site dining options: Bistro Italia and Players Sports Pub. I dined at Bistro Italia and found it satisfactory, if unremarkable. Standard airport fare – adequate but lacks excitement. I didn't try Players Sports Pub, so I recommend checking online reviews for a more thorough assessment. Remember that a satisfying meal can enhance your overall hotel experience; researching dining options before arriving saves on-site stress.
Parking: A Potential Point of Frustration
Parking, based on online reviews and my own limited experience, is a significant area for improvement. While the parking fee isn't exceptionally high, the location is inconvenient. It's a considerable walk from the main entrance, which poses a challenge, especially when carrying luggage in Florida's heat. This is a genuine inconvenience, especially for late arrivals or early departures. Improved shuttle service directly to the parking lot would be a welcome enhancement. Isn't it important to think about every part of the hotel experience — including the sometimes-overlooked aspect of parking?
Service: Inconsistency Reported, but My Experience Was Fine
My personal experience with the hotel staff was positive – efficient and courteous. However, online reviews reveal inconsistencies in service quality. Some guests reported excellent service, while others detailed less-than-stellar encounters. This inconsistency is a major concern, and shows a need for improvement in training and supervision. A consistently positive guest experience significantly impacts a hotel's reputation — wouldn't you agree?
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective
To summarize, here's a balanced look at my experience:
Pros:
- Convenient airport location.
- Free airport shuttle.
- Comfortable, standard hotel rooms.
- On-site dining options.
- Hilton Honors points earned.
- Reliable and clean property.
Cons:
- Inconvenient parking lot location.
- Inconsistent service reported online.
- Potential for audible airport noise.
- Vague online room descriptions.
- Lack of outstanding amenities.
Booking Your Stay: Actionable Steps for a Smooth Trip
To minimize potential issues and maximize your enjoyment, consider these steps before booking:
- Check Recent Reviews: Thoroughly review recent guest experiences on TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and other reputable platforms. This provides a realistic expectation of what to expect.
- Confirm Parking Arrangements: Contact the hotel directly to clarify parking details, including fees, location, and availability. This prevents unwelcome surprises upon arrival.
- Inquire About Specific Amenities: If specific amenities are essential (microwave, mini-fridge, etc.), confirm their availability before booking to avoid disappointment.
Conclusion: A Practical Choice, But Room for Improvement
The DoubleTree by Hilton Tampa Airport - Westshore offers convenient airport access via its excellent complimentary shuttle service. This is a significant benefit for many travellers. However, the hotel needs to address concerns regarding parking, service consistency, and the vagueness of online room descriptions. It's a functional and reliable hotel for a short stay, but it’s not a luxury destination. Carefully consider the pros and cons based on your individual needs and travel style to determine whether it's the right choice for you.