Gen Z and Millennials are the generations leading the airport destination experience trend. Young people now travel with the idea that the journey can be just as exciting as the destination.
51% of Vietnamese tourists now tend to consider traveling to a destination to explore and visit the local airport and 79% are curious about airports with many unique amenities. This is the research data from the online platform Booking.com just announced.
Gen Z and Millennials are leading the charge, showing that the journey can be just as exciting as the destination. From convenient sleep pods to luxury spas, many airports are transforming the wait into a memorable start to a trip.
With travelers increasingly prioritizing airport experiences, experts from Booking.com have suggested a few airports that could make travelers want to spend more time in them rather than just stop over for a short while.
Changi, Singapore
For over a decade, Singapore’s airport has been battling it out with many other rivals to successfully maintain its position as the “World’s Best Airport.” The centerpiece of the airport, the Jewel Rain Vortex is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, with water cascading down seven stories from a striking glass dome.
Surrounding the waterfall is Shiseido Forest Valley – a green valley with more than 900 types of trees and 60,000 shrubs, bringing visitors to a natural oasis even before the tour begins.
When stopping at this airport, visitors absolutely cannot miss Canopy Park at Jewel Changi - where there are countless activities and unique discoveries such as a 50-meter long glass bridge, a green maze, a mirror maze and many art installations that bring exciting adventures for all ages.
For a quick break during your layover, the Changi Lounge is the perfect place for travelers to relax or business travelers to attend an urgent meeting. For those who need to stay overnight, YOTEL Singapore offers modern accommodations right in the Jewel area along with many of Changi Airport's many experiences and amenities.
If you want a truly luxurious resort experience, Crowne Plaza Changi Airport Hotel with spacious rooms, high-class swimming pool, and seamless connection to all airport terminals will be an interesting choice.
Danang International Airport, Vietnam
According to Booking.com’s 2025 Travel Trends Forecast Report, 83% of Vietnamese travelers believe that their travel experience would be more enjoyable and relaxing if there were more services and amenities at the airport. In particular, Millennials and Gen Z are particularly interested in amenities such as sleep pods (chosen by 29% of Millennials and 31% of Gen Z) and spas (chosen by 40% of both Millennials and Gen Z).
Da Nang International Airport has established itself as a leader in embracing the growing trend of travelers placing greater emphasis on airport experiences and offering a range of in-flight experiences. From sleep pods, full-service spas, and dedicated children’s play areas in front of each departure gate in the international terminal, 34 retail outlets including a large duty-free store, 15 restaurants and cafes (including special options for Korean and Chinese travelers) to prayer rooms for Muslim passengers, the airport provides a smooth and enjoyable start to the entire trip.
The airport’s design is inspired by the cultural heritage of Da Nang and Hoi An, combining the iconic images of lanterns and ocean waves with decorations that change for special occasions, such as a giant pumpkin on Halloween or a path of light and a 10-meter-tall Christmas tree.
With outstanding facilities and excellent customer service (including a dedicated passenger support team), Da Nang International Airport ranked 94th in Skytrax's Top 100 World Airports 2024, with the international terminal alone rated 5-star by the system.
Incheon International Airport, South Korea
Even if you only stop over at Incheon International Airport in Seoul for a short time, you still have the opportunity to experience a part of Korean culture. With facilities and entertainment services such as an 18-hole golf course or the traditional Korean space K-Culture Street, you can spend a whole day having fun and exploring the culture before boarding the plane.
For travelers looking to relax, Incheon Airport offers quiet areas such as indoor gardens, cinemas and spa areas, ensuring a unique and comfortable airport experience.
Some of the must-see activities here include a year-round ice skating rink (free) for visitors to enjoy before boarding the plane, and an innovative digital gym – where exercise turns into fun interactive experiences.
Haneda Airport, Japan
Haneda Airport in Tokyo is a harmonious combination of traditional Japanese beauty and modern amenities. Here, visitors can feel the atmosphere of old Tokyo on Edo-Koji Street, located on the 4th floor of Terminal 3. With wooden buildings, traditional Japanese restaurants and nostalgic souvenir shops, this place fully recreates the ancient beauty of Edo. This is an ideal stop to enjoy an authentic Japanese dish or pick up unique souvenirs before continuing your journey.
Haneda Airport is famous for its exquisitely designed lounges, which offer stunning views of Mount Fuji and the comfort and thoughtfulness of private sleeping pods.
Hong Kong International Airport, China
Hong Kong International Airport (China) is an exciting destination in itself with a range of impressive facilities. Visitors can watch the latest movies at the IMAX theater, visit SkyCity and SkyPlaza in Terminal 1 or 2 for a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment.
For families with children, the Wonder Eggshell area offers a variety of interactive online games and a play space with slides and winding nets for climbing and exploring.
In fact, up to 83% of Vietnamese tourists believe that having more diverse services and amenities at the airport will make their trip experience more enjoyable and relaxing.
The photo booth in Terminal 1 will help you capture fun shots, or head to Intervals – the new bar on the Sky Bridge, where visitors can sip on handcrafted drinks while taking in the breathtaking views.
Gone are the days when travelers rushed to get through airport security. Now, most travelers are willing to experience premium services or entertainment before takeoff, and airports are seen as an indispensable experience for the entire journey./.
Source
Comment (0)