Like any good metropolitan area, there are a slew of hotels near Tampa International Airport. I’ve enjoyed several, but my most recent trip to The CURRENT Hotel may rank as my favorite thus far.

The CURRENT is located in the Rocky Point neighborhood, only five minutes away from the airport. However, there’s no hustle and bustle in the area, and the construction of the hotel is so solid, I never once heard an airplane overhead. Instead, it feels a bit like a resort getaway the night before you fly away.

With a large, open lobby including numerous seating areas, a baby grand piano, art gallery, business center, bar and separate restaurant, this Autograph Collection hotel truly feels like a world away from the rest of the city. Although the weather didn’t cooperate the day I was in town, I could see the views from the pool deck overlooking the bay were clearly an ideal spot to relax and enjoy.

Different textures filled the main area, inviting travelers to start up a game of Jenga or unwind with a good book and a glass of wine in a cozy chair.

The art gallery was full of mixed mediums and styles that playfully lined the walls, while sectionals allowed guests to experience a quieter side of the hotel.

And upstairs, Casa Cami is an upscale Mexican food oasis with killer views and tequila bottles galore. Although I was well taken care of at the bar, I certainly plan to return on a less windy day to experience outdoor dining with a spicy margarita in hand.

Finally, my king-sized bedroom was clean and crisp; a bit business-y, but with enough elegant touches to feel modern and at ease. The oversized shower stall in the bathroom and the floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto Tampa Bay were unexpected surprises that delighted me all the more.

The next morning after a light breakfast at Julien Restaurant, it was a super-quick, five-minute drive to the airport and off to my next destination. The CURRENT Hotel Autograph Collection in Tampa is definitely worthy of a return visit whenever my travels allow.

— Carrie Cox, account executive