Inspired by Japan's "capsule hotels," an English group operates YOTEL facilities at L
ondon's Heathrow's Terminal 4 and at Gatwick and has a new one at Amsterdam's Schiphol. Designed for a short rest or an overnight between flights, YOTEL"rooms" are a cross between an old-fashioned railroad sleeper cabin and a first-class sleeper seat on a top international airline. All are non-smoking, are soundproofed and offer individual climate control. Guests check themselves in using a kiosk -- not unlike an ATM.The 7-square-meter (a bit over 75 square feet) standard little rooms (right) includes everything necessary for a good rest. The large single bed (which the YOTEL people say is also "large enough for a cosy 2," spelled the British way) is outfitted with a comfortable hand-layered mattress, quality cotton percale sheets, pillows and a duvet. The bathroom includes a shower, revitalizing all-in-one-body wash, heated mirror and soft towels. A fold-out work/dining table can and stool with a complete range of power and connectivity including free WiFi and wired Internet access. The table also serves for unpacking space, and there is overhead hand luggage stowage, suit-bag hanging and storage areas for small pieces. Flat-screen TV was model for tiny spaces. In standard accommodations, it is a 20-incher with a choice of films, TV, radio and games and Internet. Food is available 24 hours a day. Guests can order from an on-screen menu or visit the galley. The premium cabin features a double bed that converts into a couch at the push of a button, additional storage space, a 23-inch television and an overhead rain shower in the bathroom area. Rates begin at £25 per stay.
Heathrow's Terminal 5 Soon to Open
More news from Heathrow is that Terminal 5 (left) is about to open. The enormous, $8.5 billion terminal was first proposed in 1993. Construction alone took more than seven years. Highly touted features include acres if marble and hardwood floors, panoramic windows (the better to see the fog?), luxurious lounges for first- and business-class passengers worthy of a five-star hotel, some 112 shops including predictable top-shelf and an abundance of restaurants galore, including celeb chef Gordon Ramsey's Plane Food.
Airport authorities say that some 92 percent of all passengers will be switching to Terminal 5 built for British Airways. T5, as the new terminal is nicknamed, is impressively intermodal, with a London Underground station for the Piccadilly line, buses, the Heathrow Express train to and from Paddington station, and a new spur road with direct access to and from the M-25 motorway. With only two main runways no room for more, however, Heathrow may continue to experience epic delays, but at least they will be less uncomfortable while passengers are waiting to board their aircraft.
Airport authorities say that some 92 percent of all passengers will be switching to Terminal 5 built for British Airways. T5, as the new terminal is nicknamed, is impressively intermodal, with a London Underground station for the Piccadilly line, buses, the Heathrow Express train to and from Paddington station, and a new spur road with direct access to and from the M-25 motorway. With only two main runways no room for more, however, Heathrow may continue to experience epic delays, but at least they will be less uncomfortable while passengers are waiting to board their aircraft.
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