Exotic flair, just off the M23

Staying in the Gatwick Europa, you could almost think you were staying in a Tuscan villa, except for the weather, of course! Still, it's a lot easier to get to than the actual Mediterranean; just pull off the M23 and the hotel is right there. From there, it's less than 20 minutes to get to either terminal on a direct shuttlebus. It's hard to find an airport hotel that's this easy, but still with this much character.

By car: Leave the M23 at junction 10a and turn right at the roundabout. The hotel will be on your right.

By public transport: The nearest station is Three Bridges, and a taxi from there to the hotel costs £5. Alternatively, get a train or coach to Gatwick airport, then catch the hotel's transfer bus, which costs £5 return. You need bus G4, which leaves from stop 12 at the South terminal, and stop 8 at the North terminal. The bus runs every 45 minutes at peak times. A taxi from the airport will cost around £14; hotel staff will be happy to help you book with a reputable firm.

Getting to the airport: The Europa's transfer bus runs to the airport 24 hours a day. It runs every 45 minutes at peak times - for exact times, just give the hotel a call. The journey to the South terminal takes 15 minutes, and the North terminal takes 20 minutes. The bus costs £2.50 for children aged two to 16; children under two travel free.