When travelling around the world, aside from plane spotters, most of us want to spend as little time in airports as possible. However, the odd delay or long transfer is somewhat inevitable, so here are a few airports you should consider waiting in on your around the world trip, you might find yourself not wanting to leave…..
Hong Kong
Situated 21 miles North West of Hong Kong Island, this is one of the world’s busiest airports. It was recently voted best overall airport for 2011 (Skytrax) and it’s not hard to see why. Its ultra-modern with a fast speed train link into the city centre taking just over 20 minutes.
There’s plenty to keep you occupied while you wait, including a 4D Extreme Cinema, flight simulators, free of charge PlayStations and even a nine-hole golf course! You’re sure to be kept entertained while you wait for your flight, just make sure you don’t miss it!
Singapore
Changi airport is situated 13 miles north east of Singapore and has been voted the best airport in the world numerous times over the past 10 years or so.
The standard of service and amenities is extremely high and it was voted Best Airport for Leisure Amenities for 2011 (Skytrax).
There is no end of things to keep you occupied including free tours of Singapore on transits over five hours. There are also airport gardens, spa facilities, a nature trail, fitness centre, showers and a swimming pool.
For a few Singapore Dollars, you can even use the rooftop swimming pool at Terminal 1’s Ambassador Transit Hotel. If all you want to do is crash out for a few hours, there are lots of areas with comfy seats you can stretch out on.
Seoul
Incheon airport is 25 miles west of Seoul and has fast become one of the most popular airports in the world. It’s sparklingly clean and was awarded best airport for terminal cleanliness 2011 (Skytrax).
There’s an incredible variety of amenities to keep you busy, including a golf course, an ice skating rink, a casino, spa and private sleeping rooms.
The airport also boasts a museum of Korean culture, where you can enjoy viewing ancient artefacts while you await your boarding call. You can’t say that about many airports!
Auckland
Auckland is situated 14 miles south of the city and is New Zealand’s busiest airport. Despite this, it has a very laid back feel and is a great place to relax. If you want to have a snooze, you can stretch out on seats in the upstairs lounge and announcements are made at a minimal volume.
There are loads of options for eating and drinking, so you can sip on a glass of local wine accompanied by some fresh seafood while you wait for your flight.
Kuala Lumpur
This airport is located quite a distance from Kuala Lumpur, around 34 miles to the south. It’s a very well run, efficient operation and won the 2011 award for best airport immigration service. It can also surely claim to be the only airport with an entire section of rain forest inside the terminal, giving it a very green and relaxed feel.
It’s definitely worth knowing about the Plaza Premium Lounge, where you can pay a fee (from around £20) to use the lounge and business centre. There’s free wi-fi and secretarial assistance as well as massage chairs, reflexology, films and free beer and coffee.
It’s open 24 hours/day so is the perfect place to relax, whatever time of day or night your flight departs.