Airports We Wouldn't Mind a Layover at
Airports are a big aspect of travel that we really can’t avoid, anytime we fly we are bound to visit at least two of them. Traditional airports are painfully underwhelming and consist merely of terminals, tarmacs, and comically overpriced kiosk snacks. The only memorable aspects of airports are generally the ease of efficiency in getting you where you need to go on time or the travel horror stories that, unfortunately, we have all experienced. Admit it, we are all scarred from that one trip that made us question if we would ever want to fly again.
There’s an obvious reason direct flights are more desirable than indirect, why stop at three airports when you can just stop at two. No one enjoys a seven-hour layover in a bland vanilla building with blinding LED lights and uncomfortable seating. Inevitably there are always going to be times we can’t avoid a layover or control a flight cancelation. Although, there are a few select airports across the world that make such travel blisters an adventurous experience in themselves. Don’t worry, no club memberships are required to have an incredible experience.
Singapore Changi Airport
The Singapore Changi Airport is one that will simply make you beg for a lengthy layover. It is truly the golden ticket of airports. Simply put, it is the creme of the crop. With a jaw-dropping 47 attractions, it has every right to flaunt its title as the “World’s Best Airport”. Unsurprisingly Changi has been ranked the number one best airport by Skytrax for the past eight consecutive years. The scale of modern luxury and innovation that this airport has is almost hard to believe. A butterfly garden containing over one thousand butterflies, a mirror maze, a movie theater, a walking net suspended twenty-five meters in the air, there is truly an attraction for every kind of person to explore. Changi Airport’s most iconic attraction is none-other than the world’s largest indoor waterfall that organically flows from one hundred and thirty feet in the air. Encompassed with a breathtaking array of plants this waterfall aggressively pushes the limits of airport standards. The Singapore Changi Airport is the Disneyworld of airports. Flawless in its executions and bursting with activity, Changi Airport ensures every traveler the best possible experience, no matter how long a delay may be.
Vancouver International Airport
Vancouver’s International Airport is yet another innovative hub that puts ordinary air travel to shame. With not one, but two satellite Aquarium Marine Exhibits there is no excuse for layover boredom. Over 5,000 creatures live within the airport’s aquarium, creating a unique and highly engaging experience for the millions of passengers that are in transit each year. Throughout each terminal, beautifully refreshing plant structures mold the walkways and create an entirely new airport aesthetic that is organic and relaxing– far different from the usual airport norm of chaos and intensity. A seven-hour layover that lands you relaxing by a stream bedded with a vivacious garden, now that seems mesmerizing.
Incheon International Airport of South Korea
The beautiful Incheon International Airport of South Korea is an experience itself as well as being a bold leader in expanding this new wave of the innovative airport experience. The Incheon Airport is managed and operated by the Incheon International Airport Corporation, the IIAC, a corporation solely dedicated to transforming airports experience and expertise on a global scale. Hence making Icheon a leader in this field of innovation. The Incheon Airport provides a variety of free facilities, services, and experiences that your typical airport wouldn’t hesitate to slap a price on. From napping stations to shower amenities, that don't cost a single dime, this airport has revolutionized the seasoned travelers' experience and expectations. Unique to its origin, Incheon holds numerous live performances that portray the beauty of Korean culture through dance, simulation, and hands-on activities. With 34 different attractions and various amenities, the IIAC has truly perfected a progressive airport development. More than just its activities, Incheons' fluid incorporation of nature in its architecture has further transformed the layover and travel experience. Minimizing eyesores and focusing on the details that ease the natural stress of travel make getting from point A to point B less of a burden. With hanging plants and scattered gardens, the atmosphere cultivates immaculate vibes and a tranquil experience.
While these unique airports might not be our new normal yet, they are certainly paving the way for a new generation of experiential travel. We couldn’t be more on board for these over the top airports patiently waiting for us to travel again and enjoy their rare experiences.