Miami International Airport Hotel: A Pricey and Unpleasant Convenience
This hotel offers the ability to roll out of bed and get to the gate in minutes
Photo: Courtesy of George Gomez
Early morning flights are rarely pleasant, and when faced with a 5:00 a.m. departure from Miami International Airport (MIA) after a late-night arrival, maximizing sleep became my top priority. Rather than shelling out for an expensive near-airport hotel and taxi at 3:00 a.m., I opted for the most convenient choice: the Miami International Airport Hotel, a property notorious for its unbeatable location but poor reputation.
The last time I stayed here was over five years ago, and rumors had swirled about a complete remodel. However, with MIA’s ongoing redevelopment plan—including a new, upscale Westin Hotel—the fate of this aging establishment remained uncertain.
Photo: Courtesy of George Gomez
My company booked the room for me at an eye-watering $260 for the night via the hotel’s website. Upon landing at MIA at 11:30 p.m., I made my way to check-in. What followed was anything but smooth.
The Check-In Debacle
From the moment I arrived at the front desk, service was abysmal. The agent on duty, Alexis, barely acknowledged my presence, requesting my name, ID, and credit card without making eye contact or offering a greeting.
Despite my reservation being fully prepaid, he proceeded to charge my credit card. When I questioned the charge, his response was dismissive: “You’re wrong, you need to pay for the room now.” After calling my company to confirm the prepayment, Alexis, now visibly annoyed, called over a colleague. Instead of resolving the issue, she curtly stated, “You’re not authorized to use that credit card that’s on file. Do you have an authorization?” The situation quickly devolved into frustration.
Photo: Courtesy of George Gomez
Not wanting to prolong the encounter with unhelpful staff, I reluctantly handed over my personal credit card. Alexis, now preoccupied with something else, told me, “Now you have to wait. I’m busy.” Eventually, I was charged and given my key, allowing me to escape the dismal check-in experience and head to my room on the third floor.
A Time Capsule of Neglect
The elevators, likely as old as the hotel itself, groaned as they carried me to my floor. Upon stepping out, I was met with a tired carpet, its faded blues and whites a shadow of their former vibrancy, leading me down a hallway adorned with mirrors that reflected both the dim light and scratched walls—a nostalgic echo of the 1990s.
Photo: Courtesy of George Gomez
It became painfully clear that the whispers of impending remodeling were nothing more than fanciful tales.
Photo: Courtesy of George Gomez
My standard room, though modest, featured two queen beds adorned with crisp white sheets, a flat-screen TV, a telephone, and a small coffee machine.
Photo: Courtesy of George Gomez
The bathroom, while clean, was a time capsule in desperate need of rejuvenation. The shower curtain, stained a weary yellow on the inside, hung limply alongside outdated squeaky faucets, and the persistently low water pressure made each shower feel like a chore.
Photo: Courtesy of George Gomez
It was a test of patience to wait nearly a full minute for hot water to finally make its appearance. The toiletries provided were great—though nothing that would leave a lasting impression.
Yet, in a delightful twist, the bed was incredibly comfortable, complete with three plush pillows and a soft, cozy blanket. As soon as I nestled in, fell asleep, even as the air conditioning unit emitted a metallic whir that echoed through one of the vents.
Photo: Courtesy of George Gomez
Despite the hotel’s confident proclamation of “Soundproof Rooms and Suites,” I was jolted awake at 3:30 AM by my neighbor’s alarm clock.
Food and Beverage
By the time I arrived, the hotel’s restaurant had already closed. Given my 5:00 a.m. departure, breakfast was also out of the question. However, research revealed that the hotel does offer a full breakfast service on the seventh floor—a small silver lining for those with more forgiving flight schedules.
Verdict
The Miami International Airport Hotel has long been infamous for its poor reputation, with many guests sharing their experiences on Reddit. Unfortunately, my stay did nothing to change that perception. While the bedding and air conditioning were adequate, the atrocious customer service alone is enough reason to avoid this property. Paying $260 for a mere six-hour stay is outrageous, yet the ability to roll out of bed at 4:00 a.m. and be at the gate by 4:30 a.m. is undeniably convenient.
Best For
Travelers with an overnight layover at MIA who prioritize location over service quality.
Those willing to endure a lackluster experience in exchange for immediate terminal access.
