Aerotel bills itself as a one-of-a-kind airport transit hotel – join us on this first-look feature as we explore what the hotel has to offer, and if staying at the airport can actually be a relaxing experience.

Located in Terminal 1 of Singapore's Changi Airport – the same terminal used by Qantas and British Airways, among others – Aerotel is the first in what will be a family of airport transit-hotels from the Plaza Premium Group, which also operates the Plaza Premium network of airport lounges.

Situated next to Gate D41, Aerotel Singapore lures you in with promises of a swimming pool (with poolside bar), exercise facilities and even a library.

Because the Aerotel is located inside the terminal itself, there's no time lost going through customs and immigration to exit the terminal and then coming back through again.

First impressions when entering are promising - the reception team is accommodating and helpful, and the lobby area is outfitted with funky, modern decor that keeps things looking sharp.

The modern styling continues throughout the hotel, and the hallways feel spacious and clean. 

The rooms are well appointed, with ample closet space, a working desk, and plenty of outlets to get all your devices charged up and ready to go, plus the expected complimentary water, tea and coffee facilities.

Currently Aerotel offers a few different bookable options including twin rooms and single rooms (no doubles, but the beds are generously sized).

Both room types can be booked with or without accompanying meals.

While you won't find all the amenities of a 5-star hotel here, the service offering, decor and presentation are impressive for a transit-hotel, and we couldn't fault the cleanliness or design of the rooms. 

The single rooms are obviously quite a bit smaller and feel more generic than the twin rooms - but for a quick snooze before moving on to your final destination, it's difficult to find a better spot in the airport to relax.

Guests are provided with complimentary toiletries and towels, and bathrooms are surprisingly spacious and feature an enclosed stand-alone shower.

After a long flight, there's arguably no better sight than this!

Once you've rested and relaxed, you'll want to check out the other features of the hotel, including the poolside bar and library.

 

The guest lounge area has ample seating for relaxing or catching up on some work while enjoying a coffee. 

You won't find any barista brews here, but complimentary treats and a coffee machine will suffice for a short stint.

There's also an adequately equipped gym area overlooking the guest lounge, perfect for getting the blood pumping after sitting for a long stretch.

The lounge also features a small library section where you an curl up with a book - while the selection is not exactly huge, if you're sick of staring at a screen it makes a welcome respite.

Perhaps the most engaging feature: Aerotel boasts that it's the only airport transit hotel in Asia with a pool.

The idea of taking a relaxing dip while waiting for a connection sounds perfect to us – and even if you're not staying at the hotel, for US$12 you can purchase a one hour Pool and Jacuzzi pass.

Aerotel Singapore offers bookings in 6-hour blocks, starting at US$39 for a single room and US$50 for the inclusion of a meal, but these can also be extended in hourly increments (from US$14/hour) if required. 

Also read: A beginner's guide to transiting Singapore's Changi Airport

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