When booking long-haul flights across the world, many would groan at the realisation that they’ve booked a trip with an 8-hour stopover. But as the travel industry strives to meet the higher expectations of consumers, even airports are having a makeover.
Gone are the days of wandering round terminals with closed shops, trying to catch some sleep on uncomfortable seating or eating at the only available restaurant at 3 am. Now, we’d go so far as to say some airports are a destination in their own right. Check out our top picks below.
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Singapore Changi Airport
As the winner of over 400 awards, Singapore Changi Airport is top of the list. Changi is the primary airport for Singapore, and as the 15th busiest transportation hub in the world, it comes as no surprise that they’ve gone all out. Each of the terminals has its own theme – terminal one is perfect for those looking to relax, with a rooftop pool and spa. Terminal two is favoured by families, with a 24-hour cinema and children’s playground, and terminal three is for all the nature lovers, boasting a natural skylight and gardens housing over 200 species of foliage and butterflies.
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Incheon International Airport
If you’re looking for a taste of the Korean culture but don’t have enough time to leave the airport, look no further than Incheon International, South Korea. With cultural performances, museums and a movie theatre, you’ll get on your connecting flight having learned something new. Aside from education, this airport has a year-round ice rink, an 18-hole putting course, a casino, and seven indoor gardens to keep you entertained. On top of all of that, this airport is also ranked one of the fastest airports in the world for customs processing and claims only a 0.0001% baggage mishandling rate. Winner!
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Taoyuan International Airport
While the airport on the whole isn’t known for its grandeur, the themed lounges here in Taiwan are famous worldwide. Book into a Hello Kitty-, art- or sports-themed lounge to ensure you have a place to rest and relax before your connecting flight. If you can’t get into a lounge, some of the gates in terminal 2 are decorated with tourist highlights such as a replica of the train that runs through the mountainous region of Alishan or a hut used by indigenous Austronesians.
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Dubai International Airport
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An airport that truly dazzles its visitors, Dubai International is the definition of luxury, much like the city itself. With classic Arab architecture, the airport’s design incorporates impressive pillars, water ponds, and beautiful zen gardens. When you’re not napping in one of the airports snoozecubes, you can shop at the world’s largest duty-free shop or even book in for a treatment at the world-class spa. You’ll get onto your connecting flight feeling like royalty!
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Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
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Mumbai Airport
As India’s second-largest airport, Mumbai boasts six lounges and 21,000 square metres of shopping. Heralded for its quality airport access, check-in, security screening, restrooms, stores, and restaurants, this airport also features a three-kilometre art walkway displaying work by local creatives.
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Vancouver International Airport
With architecture that reflects British Columbia’s diverse landscapes, Vancouver’s airport is a masterpiece of art, nature and marine life. Make sure to visit the impressive Vancouver Aquarium Marine Exhibit which consists of two aquariums, one housing only jellyfish. The airport also features the largest Northwest Coast Native art collection in the world, with totem poles and the Spirit of Haida Gwaii canoe. To top it all off, all the staff are super-friendly in true Canadian style!
8. Hamad International Airport
Having opened its doors only recently, Hamad International is the home of Qatar Airways. On its exterior, the building itself pays homage to the country’s natural environment, imitating ocean waves and sand dunes. Once you step inside, you can visit the vast number of shops and restaurants, health spas, swimming pools or even the 7m tall, canary yellow teddy bear by Swiss artist Urs Fischer, found in the middle of the departures hall.
*Note: These rates are based on search queries made on KAYAK.com.au on 21 January 2018. The prices are quoted in AUD. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available
