After a lot of research on Trip Advisor of the various hotels close to LAX, we chose the Courtyard by Marriott LAX on West Century Boulevard for a three night stay.

We arrived at LAX and two hours after touching down, we were finally able to leave the airport! The hotel shuttle pick up point was easy to find and we waited only about ten minutes for one to arrive. This was at about 3.30 pm. The driver helped us load our five bags and we then proceeded to the Marriott which is one block away from the Courtyard by Marriott.

The reception staff were friendly and helpful and check in was accomplished swiftly.

Our 7th floor room was, like the rest of the hotel, recently refurbished and in good condition. The room itself was large and comprised a king sized bed, wardrobe, 3 drawers writing desk, fridge (not stocked), a 3 seater settee, TV, safe, ironing board with a hand basin in the bedroom area. Completing the set up was a hairdryer which was virtually useless due to the extremely short power lead.

The bathroom comprised a large bath and toilet, with an overbath fixed shower head, which was the only item which had not been replaced, was difficult to operate, and dripped when turned off. LIghting in the room was very good and the bed was comfortable, with a good pillow selection.


There was a coffe maker with free filter coffee and an ice bucket which could be replenished from a room adjacent to the lift area. The towels were of good quality, face cloths were also provided, as were soap tablets, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion, but no shower gel!

On the same level as reception, located on the ground floor entrance level, were four free internet terminals plus printer. Additionally there were three separate terminals to facilitate airport check in, again with printers. We felt that this was a very good idea, and freed up the other terminals for general computer work.

Also on the ground floor, was a "Bistro" which offered food from 6.00 am. The selection was limited and the price was typical of this standard of hotel.

Our choice of this hotel was mainly determined by the reports of the reliability of its airport shuttle, contrary to stories regarding other hotel shuttles; and the facility to walk to Terminal 1. The shuttle runs nominally every 15 minutes, but this interval can vary depending on traffic and patronage. It effectively starts at the Marriott, picks up at the Courtyard and goes to all the airport terminals starting at 1, before returning to the Marriott. During our stay we made a return trip to San Francisco from Terminal 1, and also a trip by train to San Diego, which involved catching the Fly Away bus from Terminal 1 to Union Station. Without luggage we did these transfers between hotel and Terminal 1 on foot at all times of day and night. At a brisk walking pace, we were able to leave our hotel room and arrive at Terminal 1 in 13 minutes. The route is reasonably well lit and busy, so this proximity to the airport is a big plus for the Courtyard.

Would we come again? If we return to LA, yes.