A memorable travel experience, apart from the sights, people, food, and culture, includes a great airport. Why not? It’s the first thing people encounter after disembarking a plane. Though it’s not the actual destination you’re headed to, it is the gateway.
According to a 2014 interview with Tan Sri Bashir, managing director of Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, airports play a very important role in tourism. Airports should focus on marketing their destinations to both airline companies and travelers.
Believe it or not, there is recognition presented to airports. Every year since 1999, Skytrax holds the largest annual global airport customers satisfaction survey. This set the global benchmark to airport and service excellence. The result of the survey decides who made it to the top of the Skytrax World Airport Awards, widely known as the Passengers Choice Awards. It is the Oscars of the aviation industry and the most prestigious accolade in the field.
To have a better idea of what kind of services are given and what makes a world-class airport, here are the three best airports in the world:
Changi Airport of Singapore
For six years in a row, Changi Airport has dominated the Passengers Choice Awards. Apart from its beautiful edifice, there are several activities awaiting passenger can do to pass the time. In fact, if it wasn’t for the planes flying in and out, you’d mistake it as a mall.
Passengers may enjoy watching a movie, relaxing on massage chairs, swimming, playing at the game stations, and many more. What’s really great about it is most of these offered activities are free. If you prefer to rest instead, there are sleeping pods and transit hotels inside the Changi Airport. They also offer free transit tours for those who have 6 or more hours to spare. Just present your passport, boarding passes, visa entry, and you’re good. The amazing amenities will not end there as another landmark is set to change airport standards, the Jewel.
Think that all of these were made available to travellers just so they can comfortably wait in the airport? You can say that Singapore goes above and beyond for all airport passengers.
Incheon Airport of Korea
Incheon Airport takes the second spot on Skytrax World’s Best Airport Awards and it isn’t there for nothing. It’s comprised of two terminals connected by an underground train and shuttle buses at street level. Amazingly, this airport also has a casino, a golf course, and several indoor eco-gardens airport passengers would enjoy. They also have an ice skating rink—definitely something kids would love.
Even if you’re just in Korea for a stopover, there’s a way to experience Korean culture by visiting the airport’s cultural museum.Travelers may see 5000 year old UNESCO artifacts or watch a traditional Korean musical performance.
For those with long stopovers, transit hotels and lounges are available inside the airport. No budget? No problem! They have several spots where you can rest. Free showers are also available, in case you want to freshen up before your flight. You don’t have to worry much about food since there are a lot of dining options to choose from.
Haneda Airport of Japan
Haneda Airport may have taken the third spot for the Passenger’s Choice Awards but it bagged the World’s Cleanest Airport title and World’s Best Domestic Airport. Traveling can be quite tiring and seeing a squeaky clean surrounding can actually make it a little bit better. In fact, people can agree that the efficiency of an airport is a reflection of the country.
Haneda Airport has several entertainment sections that you may want to explore. One of the most famous attractions of the airport is their Nihonbashi or Japan Bridge, a half-size replica of more than a hundred year old bridge in Nihonbashi River. You can also get a glimpse of the Edo era in Haneda’s Edo Alley. Airport passengers can also dine and shop here.
A Hello Kitty store, a Planetarium cafe, and even a toy park? Haneda Airport has so much in store for airport passengers. Going around before you go or getting there earlier is a must.
Traveling is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself. It is an experience that you can share with your loved ones. Just make sure to secure yourself with a travel insurance in the Philippines before flying out to assure your safety and be ready for any incidents that may happen. Though these are very great airports, there are instances when you may lose a belonging, miss a flight, and so on.
Malayan Insurance offers a comprehensive travel health insurance in the Philippines that can help you in times of need. Don’t be caught unprepared by incidents. Avail one today and feel secured more than ever!
