I must admit, I had difficulty explaining the Protea Hotel OR Tambo to my friends and colleagues. Firstly, the minute you say 'airport hotel', certain connotations immediately conjure visions of accommodation designed for a last-minute stay over, rather than this unconventionally cool piece of urban design.

Secondly, this airport-themed hotel does way more than cater to anyone who's ever wondered what it felt like to be Tom Hanks' character in The Terminal.

In fact, the simplicity and classiness of the décor evokes both the chic industrial feel of the Protea Hotel Victoria Junction, as well as the clever use of space at the Fire & Ice, tempered with subtle (and sometimes quirky) aviation-themed features

The rooms are small, but comfortable and well laid-out, accommodating a large double bed, a desk, walk-in cupboard, glass shower and basin, a flat-screen TV, coffee station and sideboard, as well as a separate toilet. Amazingly, with frontage overlooking the airport, my room was very quiet.

This hotel boasts great guest facilities - including a gym, a large bar and lounge, as well as an open dining area. In keeping with the theme, a giant flight simulator offers guests the opportunity to try their own hand at piloting an aircraft.

Outside, the hotel opens on to a stunning swimming and outdoor lounge area. Large, circular covered daybeds allow guests to tan in luxurious privacy, then simply roll over and take a dip.

Protea Hotel OR Tambo also boasts a separate, state-of-the-art conference centre, offering two multi-use conference rooms, and two executive boardrooms.

Understandably, this hotel may not be located in your ideal area for a Gauteng getaway, but for business travellers, it's ideal. With complimentary shuttles to and from the airport, and soon to the new Gautrain terminus, it is ideal for proximity to the airport and Johannesburg city centre, meetings, and, when the Gautrain opens, will provide an alternative to hiring a car when you need to get into the Sandton business district and avoid the traffic.

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