Hi, I am joining Rick Steves 14-day ETBD , starting May 5 thru May 18, 2008. Before the tour starts, I will spend one week in Germany visiting friends. From Germany, I will take a train ride to Paris on May 4th. However, I am flying back to the US from Heathrow airport, London. (I wish I could fly back from Rome!!! The free ticket would not allow me this luxury). So, I am going to have to fly from Rome to London. The last flight to London gets me there around 10PM, and I will take the first flight out at 8AM the next morning. My question is, will I be allowed to hang around inside the terminal to wait for my early outbound flight? Will they chase me out? if I have to leave the terminal, is there an inexpensive hotel/motel near the airport? I appreciate any information from you savvy travellers. I am travelling solo,(of course with a RickSteve group) but I am scared ...as there will be no one there with me after the tour is over!!! Thank you in advance. Pam
Posted by
Bend, OR, United States
1167 posts
You can get some information and reviews here:
http://www.sleepinginairports.net/europe.htm
If you decide not to stay at airport I can recommend:
http://www.heathrowlodge.com/
I have stayed there a couple of times and found it to be perfectly adequate. Nothing fancy but a good value for an overnight.
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9363 posts
Yes, you will be allowed to hang around for the night. I slept there on my way back from Spain last May, along with several dozen others in the same part of the terminal. They won't chase you out, but be aware that there will be no stores open overnight, so no snacks, etc., available. (Krispy Kreme opens at 5:00 a.m.) If you are worried about sleeping in the terminal, though, you might want to check into the new Yotel in Heathrow airport for a few hours. www.yotel.com
Posted by
OP
san leandro, ca, usa
2 posts
Thank you all for the info. I love this RS website!
Posted by
Nottingham, UK
658 posts
No the aiport security staff will not throw you out. Go to one of them, explain the situation. Tell them your flight details etc. Ask them to direct you to a safe, comfortable place to sit. They'll probably put the word out and make sure someone keeps an eye open for you.
Make sure you have a good book to read and a bottle of water.
You should make your way to check-in as soon as possible ( about 5.00 am ) and go airside as soon as possible. The shops airside are open and you can grab a coffee and get something to eat.
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
Both Heathrow and Gatwick now have yotels, small sleeping cabins. Minimum booking of four hours. Get a few hours sleep and a shower for as low as £25. See www.yotel.com.