Homewood Suites Miami-Airport West

This hotel suits a wide range of travelers looking for value and proximity to the airport. While it sees a fair amount of stop-over guests, the in-room kitchens also lure plenty of extended-stay travelers. Although the exterior, marked by pale-yellow stucco and a green roof, isn't anything special -- it is a chain hotel, after all --Homewood Suites' interior plays upon the property's first name. The lobby's living-room-like seating cluster has a mix of traditional and modern furniture, rich woods and earth tones, lodge-like light fixtures, and a fireplace with slate tile. It's definitely incongruous with the typical light, beachy vibe of Miami, but, it's nonetheless cozy and pleasant. The free hot breakfasts and evening socials during the week only enhance the homey vibe. 

Located along a main road immediately off the Palmetto Expressway, the extended-stay Homewood Suites Miami-Airport West is located in a cluster of airport hotels a 15-minute car journey from the terminal. The hotel also offers free airport shuttle service. For guests whose visits are more about proximity to the airport than business downtown or sightseeing, it's a convenient place to stay; otherwise, business travelers or vacationers would do better to be downtown or in Miami Beach. 

There's little within walking distance, aside from a well-reviewed Venezuelan restaurant, Bocas Grill, a 15-minute walk away; there are more restaurants, however, a short five to 10 minutes away by car. Downtown Miami is about 30 minutes by car, while popular areas such as the Art Deco district and famed South Beach are around 35 minutes. On-site parking is free.

Homewood Suites has a variety of room sizes available, from studios to two-bedroom suites for larger families or groups. Per most chain hotels, rooms are generically decorated in warm earth tones that are heavy on brown. Though well-maintained, the clunky wood and upholstered furniture, patterned carpeting, and striped drapes are old-fashioned and in need of an update. However, for those who aren't picks about modernity, the rooms are pleasant enough and a clean place to bunker down for the night. Most notable is that all rooms have well-equipped kitchens with full-size refrigerators, microwaves, two-burner stovetops, dishwashers, and coffeemakers. Bathrooms are spacious, with plenty of counter space, big showers (no tubs), and Neutrogena toiletries. Also provided are sitting areas with sofa beds, flat-screen TVs, safes, and ironing facilities. 

Homewood Suites offers more than the average three-pearl airport hotel. Families with kids may particularly like that there's an outdoor swimming pool with toys and various seating around its deck. Next to it is a well-maintained basketball half-court, and inside is a small gym that has medicine balls, yoga mats, and free weights. A quality free breakfast is served every day, and includes items such as breads, eggs, sausage, cereal, and fresh fruit. Additionally, there are free evening socials Monday through Thursday with drinks and small plates. Also on-site are coin-operated laundry facilities and a shop selling snacks and sundries. Wi-Fi if free throughout.