Airport Pleasure and Angst
We spend so much time in them these days that airports have become destinations in their own right. When your flight is delayed – as it inevitably will be at some point – count yourself lucky to be trapped in an airport that provides an abundance of restaurants, book stores, retail shops, wireless access and other diversions. Comfortable seats and helpful airport personnel are added bonuses.
On the other hand, being delayed in a dirty, amenity-deprived, badly laid out fortress in the middle of nowhere is every traveler’s nightmare. So this month we did some quick research to discover what are considered the world’s best… and worst airports. Not surprisingly, the top three are all in Asia where efficiency, cleanliness and capitalism are always top priorities. Pray for a delay – if it must be – in one of the top best. Hope you’ll never have to spend more than a couple of hours in the top worst.
World's Best Airports
Number 1
South Korea’s Seoul Incheon Airport is in its way, a cultural center for the country; the first impression visitors have of the city and country upon arrival. Each year, Incheon Airport sees some 25 million passengers passing through. In recent years, the airport has received a series of prestigious awards for excellence and commitment to high standards of service and this year for the fifth year in a row was ranked number one by the Airport Council International. And it’s no wonder: A mini golf course(!) and a garden are stand outs. Hot tubs, showers and saunas provide all the amenities of a top spa. Dim lights in rest areas allow you to sleep, read or work in peace. This airport also has other amenities galore:
Banks and a post office, a vast selection of restaurants, snack bars, cafes, bars, ice cream parlours and fast-food outlets. Four companies operate over 40 duty-free shops, there’s even a supermarket in the basement area! If necessary (and we hope it won’t be), Incheon conveniently provides a medical center, pharmacists, laundry facilities, children’s playrooms, a massage parlour and a prayer room.
Number 2
This says it all: Singapore’s Changi Airport has won the coveted Golden Pillow Award for its specially designed "snooze chairs" in its lounges. Free WiFi, an internet cafe, prayer rooms, a shopping mall and great restaurants make this airport better than a deluxe five star hotel. In addition, if you’re delayed at Changi for any significant amount of time then check out their free city tours, a spa facility that offers 24-hour massages as well as their swimming pool and Jacuzzi. Listen to live music in the music lounge for even more rest and relaxation before you board your flight. There is also a special napping area with free movies. Why even bother leaving “Club Changi?” It may be worth it just to travel to the airport and return home! Best of all it is safe and quiet; students have been known to go there to study for exams. Go there and spend a night or a few.
Number 3
Hong Kong's Capital Airport’s new pay-in (as opposed to members only) luxury lounge has been a big hit since it opened earlier this year. Dining, entertainment, working, sleeping, even massages are all options here offering weary travelers a wide variety of activities before they must board their flight. But if you don’t want to pay, the airport has several free amenities including recliners, kiosks, WiFi and comfortable cushioned benches.
An extraordinarily quiet space, there are no boarding announcements at Hong Kong airport so you’ll have to diligently watch for your flight information on soundless TV screens. For those sensitive to cold temperatures, though, bring a blanket in your carry-on because temps here are kept pretty low, but hey, you have tons of things to do to keep you busy and... warm as you run around before you board your flight.
World's Worst Airports
And the world's worst airports? Well based on passenger surveys, these ten all made the cut:
Paris Charles DeGaulle
Staff is reportedly rude and arrogant, indifferent and seem more than a little spiteful. It is always too hot or too cold depending on the season. Best advice: Dont ever miss a connection here, because you may get trapped in a nightmare.
Moscow Sheremetyevo
Dirty and chaotic, it seems as if everyone smokes at this airport. Staff is very rude and seating is limited.
New York JFK
Hectic with limited seating and frequent announcements that make it very noisy, JFK counter/customs/security staff don't get any points either. They're said to be unfriendly and unhelpful. Restaurants and shops close early.
4.Los Angeles
5.Delhi, India
6.Hanoi
7.Manila
8.Rome
9.Frankfurt Hahn
10.London Heathrow
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