Airports help us get to our destinations, wherever they may be. But some can qualify as travel destinations.
They are increasingly becoming an attraction for travellers from all walks of life, whether it’s through dazzling interior designs, indoor gardens, designer shopping, or incredible natural views. These airports should be on any traveller’s bucket list.
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Changi International Airport, Singapore
What more is there to say? When it comes to a genuinely world-class airport, Changi Airport takes the cake. Whether it’s a short or extended layover, there’s something in store for everyone.
You can quickly visit the beautiful indoor gardens and snap a few photos as some of the things to do at this airport. If you have a couple of hours to spare, you can drop by the movie theatre to catch up on the latest flicks. For health buffs, there are fitness lounges where you can put in some workouts.
And if you find yourself sticking around for a day or more, Changi offers excellent airport accommodations where you can rest and rejuvenate. Additionally, there’s a wide array of shopping and dining options to choose from.
With all of these amenities to choose from, Changi is more than just an airport (as they proclaim on their website homepage).
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Incheon International Airport, South Korea
Incheon Airport is very much on the same level of competition as Changi.
The airport offers a variety of shops, cafes and relaxation centres that can help pass the time. You’ll find some medical clinics there as well if you find yourself needing to visit a physician. And if that’s not enough, there’s even a golf course and ice-skating rink available.
If you have a particularly long layover, you may qualify for a free tour sponsored by the airport. Oh, there’s a free lunch. The only downside is that you have to pay for your drinks, which is not bad at all. Ask the concierge for tour schedules and see if you have enough layover hours to take advantage of it.
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Dubai International Airport, Dubai
Dubai Airport is a haven for luxury travellers.
Spanning over 7,000 acres, the airport has several lounges, swimming pools, designer shops to keep you occupied for hours on end. Several brands will catch your eye, whether it’s Gucci, Caroline Herrera, or Marc Jacobs.
There are also relaxing and less hectic ways to spend a layover. You can check out multiple spas where you can get a massage to relax those tense muscles after a gruelling flight.
Additionally (and perhaps the centrepiece in the entire airport), the Zen Garden can offer a refreshing respite from the hustle and bustle of travelling. It has fish ponds, shrubs, bushes, and palm trees that can help you reconnect with nature. It is an excellent place to visit if you only have less than two hours of layover.
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Jackson Hole Airport, United States
Last but not least is Jackson Hole Airport. It’s significantly smaller than the previous ones on this list, and in terms of amenities, this airport loses out.
However, Jackson Hole makes up for it with breath-taking views and landscapes surrounding the airport. The airport is located within the Grand Teton National Park. When the plane lands or takes off, you’ll be greeted by an impressive mountainscape.
Spending time in a national park while waiting for your flight doesn’t sound like a bad idea at all.
Knowing this information about the airports can give an insight to how they become sites for frequent travellers to see. Who knows? One day, you might be able to experience the wonders they offer.
