Travel Experiences at... Airports

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Ngày cập nhật gần nhất: 15/4/2026

Several airports around the world have truly become 'destinations' as the aviation industry has undergone a revolution, turning waiting and layovers at airports into an exciting experience for travelers.

The concept of 'air travel tourism' is understood as engaging in activities during layovers or intentionally staying at an airport to enjoy medical, commercial, or culinary services.

In this trend, numerous modern airports in various countries have become multi-functional spaces, offering 'additional services' for passengers, including standard swimming pools, golf courses, museums, and more!

* To ease pre-flight jitters, many airports have converted parts of their premises into art exhibition spaces.

Since 1980, the SFO Museum at San Francisco Airport (USA) has had 25 art exhibition rooms scattered across different terminals. SFO quickly became a benchmark for integrating art and public spaces.

According to museum experts, SFO has successfully intertwined the importance of art, culture, and education.

During layovers at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris (France), passengers can easily enjoy complimentary artworks that are regularly changed.

In the Netherlands, if you don't have enough time to visit the famous Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, you can still admire some masterpieces by Dutch painters displayed throughout the year at Schiphol Airport, thanks to the connection between the airport and the museum.

Famous British artists also have an art exhibition space at Terminal 5 in Heathrow Airport in the capital city, London.

The exhibition room, open 365 days a year, is a place to relieve tension in the constantly bustling environment of this airport.

Meanwhile, Terminal 2 of Mumbai Airport in India becomes more captivating with at least 7,000 ancient and contemporary artworks stretching along the 3km walls and corridors of the airport.

With 40 million passengers each year, Mumbai Airport has truly become the most visited museum in the world!

* Engaging in sports right at the airport has become a small thing! At Philadelphia International Airport (USA), Terminals C and D each have around 30 stationary bikes available for complimentary use.

And this model is being adopted by many other airports.

Many entertainment and relaxation services before the flight have been implemented at Incheon Airport in Seoul (South Korea). Passengers can play badminton or golf in the airport area.

If time is short, ice skating at the Ice Forest within the airport will bring joy to passengers before their flights, especially for the little ones.

Ice Forest is open to the public, accommodating up to 150 players simultaneously, operating from 10 am to 8 pm daily. Visitors only need to spend a few dollars to rent skating shoes.

At Changi Airport in Singapore and Dubai International Airport (UAE), travelers can also relax at indoor and outdoor swimming pools...

* For book lovers, they can download 35 free books from authors in the Quebec province at Montreal Airport (Canada). Meanwhile, the e-book library at Taiwan's Taoyuan International Airport can leave passengers in awe.

Among the passenger libraries at many airports, the open-space public library at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, inaugurated in August 2010, is one of the most beloved places for visitors.

Many books here are translated into 29 different languages...

* Singapore's Changi Airport consistently ranks at the top of the world's best airports. The presence of numerous parks and greenhouses has played a significant role in the success of this airport.

If Terminal 1 has a dragon bone park, Terminal 2 welcomes guests with an orchid or sunflower garden, and Terminal 3 boasts a giant greenhouse with a waterfall inside!

Nature enthusiasts will find joy in the Zen garden at Dubai International Airport or the two aquariums with over 5,000 marine creatures at Vancouver International Airport in Canada.

Malaysia's Kuala Lumpur International Airport also provides a refreshing natural space for waiting passengers with the Jungle Boardwalk – a tropical forest area within the airport...

All of these are free of charge.

* Movies can help travelers temporarily forget the tedious waiting time. And travelers can easily watch films on the big screen in a real cinema at international airports in Hong Kong, Incheon in South Korea, or Singapore's Changi.

The 3D IMAX cinema at Hong Kong Airport with 350 seats can help passengers pass the time with a variety of films and is open 24 hours a day.

* Healthcare is an essential service at modern airports.

While many airports boast luxurious spa facilities, Kagoshima Airport in Japan leaves a lasting impression on passengers with its unique foot soaking experience in free hot spring tubs placed outside the airport…

As per Tuoire.vn

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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour

MytourSeptember 22, 2015

Frequently Asked Questions

What unique services do modern airports offer during layovers?

Modern airports have evolved into multifunctional spaces, providing services such as art exhibitions, sports facilities, and relaxation areas. Travelers can enjoy activities like ice skating, swimming, or visiting galleries, enhancing their layover experiences significantly.

How has art been integrated into airports worldwide?

Airports like San Francisco International and Charles de Gaulle have embraced art as a vital component of the traveler experience. Art exhibitions enhance the ambiance and provide cultural enrichment, making these airports destinations in their own right.

Are there recreational activities available at airports for passengers?

Yes, many airports now feature recreational activities such as stationary bikes, golf, and even ice skating. These amenities help passengers relax and stay active during layovers, making waiting more enjoyable.

What are some notable libraries found in international airports?

International airports have established remarkable libraries, like the open-space public library at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport. These libraries offer a wide selection of books in multiple languages, providing a cultural and educational experience for travelers.

Which airport is recognized for its extensive green spaces and parks?

Singapore's Changi Airport is famous for its lush gardens and parks, including a dragon bone park and an orchid garden. These green spaces significantly enhance the travel experience, offering passengers a refreshing escape from airport hustle.

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