Forget racing through security – airports are gaining recognition as travellers embrace a new era of pre-flight entertainment and perks before they even hit the skies. Notably, 51% of Vietnamese travellers are now considering vacation spots solely based on their airports*, and 79% seek airports with more unique experiences or facilities.
Gen Zs and Millennials are leading the shift, proving that the journey can be just as exciting as the destination. From tranquil sleep pods to luxurious spas, airports are transforming waiting into a memorable start of any trip. With travellers prioritizing airport experiences, Booking.com, one of the world’s leading digital travel platforms, suggests some airports that might turn your layover into a stayover.
Changi International Airport in Singapore
For the past decade, Singapore’s airport has been vying for the top spot of ‘World’s Best’ and it’s not hard to tell why. Set at the heart of it is the Jewel Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall spanning seven storeys with a stunning display of water cascading down a glass-enclosed dome. Surrounded by the Shiseido Forest Valley, a verdant wonderland of over 900 trees and 60,000 shrubs, Jewel Changi transports travellers to a natural oasis even before their vacations begin.
Be sure to visit the Canopy Park at Jewel, where travellers can explore the park’s unique attractions, including 50-meter-long glass-bottomed walking trails, hedge maze, mirror maze made for adventurers of all ages. For a quick rest during your layover, the Changi Lounge offers a perfect spot to relax or catch a meeting for business travellers. If you’re staying overnight, consider YOTEL Singapore which offers modern rooms within Jewel, putting you right at the centre of Changi’s attractions. For a luxurious stay, Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, directly connected to the airport’s terminals, provides spacious rooms and a resort-style pool for a great spot to recharge before heading on your next adventure.
Danang International Airport in Danang, Vietnam
83% of Vietnamese travellers say a wider range of airport facilities would make their trips more exciting and stress-free, with Millennials and Gen Z particularly drawn to sleep pods (29% Millennials, 31% Gen Z) and spas (40% both Millennials and Gen Z), according to Booking.com’s Travel Predictions 2025.
Recognizing this trend of travellers prioritizing airport experiences, Danang International Airport has positioned itself as a leader in excellent pre-flight experience. From quiet zone sleep pods, a full-service spa, kids’ playgrounds at every international departure gate, 34 retail shops, large duty-free stores, 15 restaurants and cafés, with dedicated options for Korean and Chinese travellers to a prayer room for Muslim passengers, the airport offers travellers a seamless and enjoyable start to their journey.
Inspired by the cultural heritage of Da Nang and Hoi An, its design incorporates lantern motifs and ocean wave patterns, while seasonal decorations—such as a giant glowing pumpkin for Halloween and a dazzling Christmas display with a 10-meter tree and illuminated walkways—add to its unique charm.
With outstanding facilities and exceptional customer service, including the PAT (Passenger Assistance Team) to assist travellers, Danang International Airport was ranked 94th among the World’s Top 100 Airports in 2024 by Skytrax with a 5-star rating for its international terminal.
Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea
Incheon International Airport gives travellers a taste of Korean culture even on a short layover. With attractions like an 18-hole golf course and an immersive K-Culture Street, travellers can dive into Korean heritage and enjoy a full day of entertainment before embarking on their flight. For those seeking relaxation, Incheon offers tranquil spaces including indoor gardens, a movie theatre and even a spa – sure to delight travellers eager to indulge in unique and relaxing experiences.
Some must-visits at the airport include the year-round skating rink where travellers can enjoy a quick glide before boarding (completely free!), and the innovative digital gym, a fun spot for interactive workouts. Just nearby, Paradise City offers a luxurious escape that’s far more than just a hotel. This opulent complex features an art gallery, entertainment complex and a diverse selection of restaurants catering to every culinary preference, making it an ideal place to stay for those looking to extend their experience beyond the airport.
Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo’s Haneda Airport is a blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern convenience. Within, travellers can find a taste of old Tokyo along Edo-Koji Street, located at level 4 of terminal 3, where wooden architecture, traditional Japanese restaurants and charming souvenir shops evoke a nostalgic ambiance. It’s the perfect spot for a quick bite of authentic Japanese fare or to pick up unique keepsakes before continuing your journey.
Known for its well-designed lounges, don’t miss the opportunity to catch the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and thoughtful amenities like personal sleep pods. If you’re looking for a longer stay, Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu – connected directly to terminal 2 – provides convenient access and warm Japanese hospitality. Alternatively, just minutes away, Hotel JAL City Haneda offers comfortable accommodations along with a free airport shuttle, making it a great choice for a restful and hassle-free layover.
Hong Kong International Airport in Hong Kong
Hong Kong International Airport is an exciting destination in its own right, with an impressive range of facilities. Travellers can catch the latest films at the IMAX theatre or visit SkyCity and SkyPlaza located at terminals 1 and 2 respectively for diverse shopping, dining and entertainment options. For kids, the Wonder Eggshell offers interactive digital games and a unique space fitted with a playground where they can climb, slide and explore various curved net tunnels.
A staggering 83% of Vietnamese travellers expressed that having access to more diverse amenities at airports would make trips more exciting and stress-free, setting the stage for vacations that begin before takeoff.
Be sure to stop by the photo kiosk located at terminal 1 for fun snapshots or Intervals, an all-new bar located on the Sky Bridge, where travellers can sip on artisanal drinks with a spectacular view. For those staying overnight, Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel is located right next to the airport and features plush rooms, five dining options and an award-winning spa for unwinding between flights. For a unique stay, Auberge Discovery Bay offers a short shuttle ride to a scenic beachside retreat with spectacular views of the mountains and the ocean.
CONTACT DETAILS
For further information, contact the Booking.com Vietnam Press Office;
Huong.bui@edelman.com /+84 965642514
My.banh@edelman.com / +84 933588711
*Travel Predictions 2025 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,713 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,016 from Argentina, 1,002 from Australia, 502 from Austria, 1,003 from Belgium, 1002 from Brazil, 1,006 from Canada, 1,007 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 501 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,011 from France, 1,009 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,002 from India, 506 from Ireland, 501 from Israel, 1,014 from Italy, 1008 from Japan, 1,013 from Mexico, 1011 from The Netherlands, 1003 from New Zealand, 504 from Portugal, 508 from Singapore, 1004 from South Korea, 1,008 from Spain, 509 from Sweden, 500 from Switzerland, 507 from Taiwan, 1,009 from Thailand, 503 from the UAE, 1,012 from the UK, 1,006 from the US and 1,016 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2024.
About Booking.com
Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travelers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit globalnews.booking.com.
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Source: Vietnam Insider