While most airports are notorious for being considered the last place you want to be when flights have been delayed or cancelled, these five make long layovers seem more like a gift than a curse.

 

Singapore

The best thing about the Singapore airport? It doesn’t feel like an airport. Relax amidst their beautiful butterfly garden before checking out the display of tropical orchids and cactus gardens. Unwind with a massage before hopping into the swimming pool and taking a shower in their one-of-a-kind facilities. Also home to the world’s tallest airport slide, the entertainment deck is perfect for waiting for your next flight.

 

Oslo Gardermoen

The scandanavian design includes sleek natural wood and glass that is timeless and elegant. There are six steel sculptures by artist Per Inge Bjorlo on display, as well as the innovative sound refreshment stations: stand beneath one and they will make a refreshing sound that can cure you of any flight-induced anxiety.

 

Hong Kong International

This airport features a cutting edge design unique to its series of breathtaking, uncluttered spaces created by British architect Norman Foster. Outside, you’ll find a nine-hole golf course where they rent equipment and store your luggage while you play. In addition, the airport also has incredible food, serving an eclectic mix of Asian and Western outlets made to represent the territory’s fusion heritage.

 

Amsterdam Schipol

Arguably Europe’s best airport, the thoughtfully organized space features delicatessen counters filled with local cheese, meat and chocolate. If you are a fan of the city’s famous tulips, you can bring some home with you from the bulbs for sale or the tulip-scapes painted on wood. In addition, there is also a miniature museum where you will be able to view 10 collections of 17th-century masterpieces.

 

Vancouver International

This Canadian airport defies expectations of traditional travel by housing a 114,000-liter tank for the Vancouver Aquarium Ocean Exhibit. Inside, are 5,000 creatures, from rockfish to starfish. The airport is also home to a smaller tank for jellyfish, along with an 18-meter high green wall that holds over 28,000 plants and includes its own irrigation and feeding system.

 

Sponsored by: