Discover the best airports in the world for long layovers, offering spas, gardens, culture, gourmet food, and unique attractions to turn transit into a trip.

Travel always has those little moments that stay with you—the first glimpse of sunrise from above the clouds, the sleepy hum of a red-eye, the small rush you feel when the plane finally touches down somewhere new. And then there are layovers… those awkward, in-between hours most of us simply tolerate. You know the drill: overpriced coffee, uncomfortable chairs, and the constant glance at the departure board hoping your gate number magically appears.

Somewhere along the way, though, airports started changing. Not loudly, not all at once—more like a quiet shift happening behind the scenes. A few terminals decided they didn’t want to be the forgettable middle chapter of your journey anymore. They wanted to be part of the story. So they upped their game, added experiences, built spaces meant to be enjoyed, not endured.

Now, there are airports where a long layover doesn’t feel like a punishment at all. In fact, you might actually want the delay. These places let you slow down, look around, and enjoy things you never expected to find between two flights—gardens, art trails, spas, gourmet food, and attractions that feel more like tiny holidays than stopovers.

This is the new world of travel, where the layover becomes a mini escape of its own. Here are nine of the best airports for long layovers, where you just might catch yourself hoping the next flight runs a little late.

1) Singapore Changi Airport: Where travel turns into theatre

If there’s one airport that rewrites the meaning of a layover, it’s Changi. There’s a moment every traveller remembers: the first glimpse of the Rain Vortex—seven storeys of cascading water framed by lush greenery beneath a glass dome that looks like it belongs in a sci-fi world.

This is an airport where you can sink into a rooftop pool, wander through a butterfly garden, get lost in a hedge maze, or curl up in cocoon-style chairs for a blissful nap. Free cinemas play movies round the clock, and art installations transform the terminals into living galleries. There’s even a four-storey slide, simply because Changi can.

Changi isn’t an airport. It’s a love letter to wanderlust—and easily the best layover airport in the world.

2) Incheon International Airport, Seoul: A cultural layover you didn’t expect

Incheon feels like a beautifully curated preview of Korea itself. You can sip matcha in a traditional teahouse, watch classical performances in bright atriums, explore a cultural museum, or try on a hanbok for the ultimate souvenir photo.

Dreamy nap lounges, pristine showers, a skating rink, spas, and exceptional Korean food make your layover feel like time spent inside a serene cultural retreat rather than a transit zone.

If you love airports that blend comfort, culture, and calm, Incheon is an absolute standout.

3) Munich Airport: Where Bavaria meets jet lag

This is the airport that brewed its way into travellers’ hearts—literally. With Airbräu, Munich’s own in-terminal brewery, you can spend your layover sipping fresh lagers in a beer garden under the glow of natural light.

Seasonal events turn the airport into a festival ground. In winter, a full-on Christmas market appears, complete with an ice rink and glowing stalls. Between hearty schnitzel cafés, an expansive observation deck, and airy shopping promenades, Munich makes waiting feel indulgent rather than tiring.

4) Tokyo Haneda Airport: A perfectly composed prelude to Japan

Haneda is elegance distilled. It feels like walking through the quieter, more contemplative side of Japan. The recreated Edo-style village—lined with lantern-lit walkways, artisanal snacks, and traditional shops—adds charm without feeling gimmicky.

Runway views glisten through panoramic windows, where aircraft glide with ballet-like precision. The food courts are pure joy: steaming ramen, delicate tempura, hand-pressed sushi.

Every corner whispers Japanese sophistication—a serene, beautiful pause before (or after) the intensity of Tokyo.

5) Vancouver International Airport: A portal to the Pacific Northwest

If airports had souls, Vancouver’s would breathe. Natural light pours through glass walls onto First Nations sculptures carved from cedar. A serene aquarium filled with local marine life acts as a calming pocket of ocean energy—kelp forests swaying, jellyfish pulsing gently.

Fresh, local menus highlight salmon, craft-roasted coffee, and farm-sourced ingredients. And if your layover turns into an overnight stop, the Fairmont inside the airport offers one of the most comfortable airport stays anywhere.

Vancouver proves an airport can feel alive, not sterile.

6) Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: Art, books & Dutch charm in transit

Schiphol is the rare airport where you might forget you’re in a terminal at all. A pocket-sized Rijksmuseum displays works by Dutch masters—free of charge and blissfully quiet.

A meditation centre offers a pocket of peace. The airport library invites you to linger just long enough to lose track of time. The warm scent of fresh stroopwafels fills the air near popular stalls.

Everything feels charming, practical, and wonderfully Dutch. It’s a layover that soothes instead of overstimulating.

7) Doha Hamad International Airport: A monument to modern luxury

Walking through Hamad International feels like drifting through a futuristic art museum. The iconic giant teddy bear sculpture anchors the central atrium with quirky grandeur.

The wellness zone, though, is the real triumph—swimming pool, spa, steam rooms, gym, and treatment suites, all accessible during your stopover. There’s even an in-airport hotel offering hourly room bookings.

Global dining options—from sushi to mezze—keep foodies happy. And if you have a long enough layover, complimentary city tours let you explore Doha’s glittering skyline.

8) Hong Kong International Airport: A city in miniature

Hong Kong International is the layover equivalent of a full-blown adventure. Catch a film at the colossal IMAX theatre, browse the aviation museum, or refresh yourself in spa-like shower suites. There’s even an outdoor golf simulator—because of course there is.

The food scene is outstanding: dim sum specialists, noodle shops beloved by locals, and international cuisine for every palate. And if the city tempts you, the Airport Express delivers you to Central Hong Kong in under 30 minutes.

Fast, bold, energetic—just like the city it represents.

9) Dubai International Airport: Pure, unfiltered indulgence

DXB feels like someone took Dubai’s love for extravagance, shrunk it down, polished it, and placed it inside an airport.

Expect zen gardens, cascading waterfall walls, luxury boutiques, gaming lounges, world cuisine, spas offering everything from facials to full-body massages, and even a health club with a pool. Free showers help shake off the red-eye haze.

You could leave the airport during a long layover—but with everything DXB offers, you may not want to.

The layover reimagined

Travel isn’t just about the destinations—it’s about the moments in between. These airports transform those in-between hours into experiences worth savouring: a taste of culture, a moment of calm, an unexpected thrill, or a chance to explore a place without ever leaving the terminal.

So the next time you see “6-hour layover” on your itinerary, don’t groan. Pack curiosity, pack appetite, pack your sense of adventure.

You might just discover a destination you didn’t even know you were going to.

Here are 10 cities across the globe that are legendary for their street food, and why they deserve a spot on your foodie travel list.

For me, travel isn’t just about seeing monuments or ticking off bucket-list attractions, it’s about tasting the soul of a city. And nothing does that better than street food. It’s raw, authentic, and tells stories that fine dining often misses. Street food is where locals gather, flavours collide, and traditions thrive. Whether it’s a sizzling skewer in Asia or a hearty taco in Latin America, these bites are cultural postcards you can eat. So, if you want to truly know a city, skip the white tablecloths and head to the streets. Here are 10 cities across the globe that are legendary for their street food-and why they deserve a spot on your foodie travel list.

Here Are 10 Cities Around The World Famous For Their Street Food

1. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is a sensory overload, and its street food scene is the crown jewel. From Pad Thai and Som Tum (papaya salad) to skewered meats grilled to perfection, the flavours here are bold and balanced. Night markets like Chatuchak and Yaowarat (Chinatown) are a must-visit. Pro tip: End your feast with mango sticky rice-sweet, creamy, and unforgettable.

2. Mexico City, Mexico

If food is a celebration, Mexico City throws the best party. Think tacos al pastor, tamales, elotes (grilled corn), and quesadillas stuffed with local cheese. Head to Mercado de Coyoacan for an explosion of flavours. Pair your taco with a glass of horchata or agua fresca, and you’ll understand why this city is a street food legend.

3. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul’s street food is a cultural mosaic. Grab a simit (sesame-crusted bread ring), savour midye dolma (stuffed mussels), and don’t miss balik ekmek, the iconic fish sandwich by the Bosphorus. For comfort food, try kumpir, a baked potato loaded with toppings. Every bite here feels like history served hot.

4. Mumbai, India

Mumbai’s street food is as vibrant as its streets. From tangy pani puri to spicy vada pav, every snack is a flavour bomb. Beaches and markets are dotted with stalls serving bhel puri, pav bhaji, and sweet treats like kulfi. For a festive vibe, visit Mohammed Ali Road during Ramadan-it’s a feast for all senses.

5. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi’s street food is all about balance and herbs. Start with pho, the fragrant noodle soup, then move to bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) and banh mi, the iconic Vietnamese sandwich. The Old Quarter is a paradise for food lovers-tiny stools, bustling alleys, and flavours that linger long after you leave.

6. Singapore

Singapore’s hawker centres are legendary. Where else can you get Michelin-starred dishes for a few dollars? Try Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow. Head to Maxwell Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat for an authentic experience. Street food here is clean, diverse, and absolutely addictive.

7. Marrakech, Morocco

The heart of Marrakech beats in Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where food stalls serve tagines, grilled meats, and sweet chebakia. The air is thick with aromas of cumin, saffron, and cinnamon. Street food here isn’t just a meal-it’s a performance, complete with storytellers and musicians.

8. New York City, USA

NYC’s street food reflects its diversity. From classic hot dogs and pretzels to halal carts, tacos, and Korean BBQ trucks, the options are endless. For a global tasting spree, head to Queens Night Market-it’s like eating your way around the world in one evening.

9. Lima, Peru

Lima is a dream for seafood lovers. Street vendors serve ceviche that’s as fresh as the ocean, along with anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers) and sweet picarones (fritters). Peruvian street food is bold, zesty, and unforgettable-just like its culture.

10. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul’s street food is vibrant and comforting. Try tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and gimbap (seaweed rice rolls). For a true Korean experience, visit Gwangjang Market-it’s a feast for the senses and a crash course in Korean flavours.

Street food is about connecting with a city’s heartbeat. It’s where culture, history, and flavour come together in one bite. So next time you travel, follow the aroma, join the queue, and taste the stories served on a plate.

Vacay on mind? Well, you deserve a holiday! But nothing comes at the cost of your health. Here are some tips from different experts to deal with different travelling conditions. These methods and exercises will help you keep your health intact while travelling.

How you focus on fitness within the routine of life at home doesn’t always translate well to the reality of travel. You’re out of your element on the road, faced with new stresses and responsibilities, away from your usual gear, running route, classes or gym membership. Even if you can do it when you’re traveling for work or for fun, tackling your home workout might not make the most sense on your trip.

To help you pick the best workout for every travel situation, we interviewed fitness experts on which types of exercises to turn to.

The best exercise when you get off a long flight

Long flights – or long bus, car and train rides – are terrible on your body. You’re stuck in a sedentary position for hours. Our experts point to mobility training to reset your spine after being crammed so awkwardly on a flight.

“Travel is one of the most beautiful parts of life but also just feels so detrimental to your body,” says Kirsty Godso, Nike Master Trainer. “Do something like [mat or tower] Pilates, where you’re really rolling your spine and mobilizing. Taking away a lot of that tightness in the hips that you feel from sitting on a flight is a great way to do it.”

Chris Perrin recommends doing a short workout to get you moving and functional again.

“The best thing to do is a dynamic stretch to stretch out the hip flexors and get the spine moving,” says the co-owner and operator of the sports conditioning gym Cut Seven, in Washington.

Try a reverse lunge with a spine rotation to stretch your hip flexor and get your back moving. Perrin recommends moving until you start to feel relief, and feel more loose. That time frame may depend on the length of your flight, drive or ride.

And before you start any post-flight workout, grab some water.

“That’s critical,” says Janine Delaney, a psychologist and fitness influencer. “If your joints are dehydrated, you’re not going to help them move as well. So you want to definitely hydrate.”

The best workout to fight jet lag

When you’ve jumped across time zones and your body is feeling weary, a workout can ease the pain. If your goal is to stay awake and push through a jet-lagged morning or afternoon, go big.

“You should shock your body and wake it up,” Perrin says. “Do something super intense as hard as you can, and your body essentially won’t know what hit it. You’re fully awake afterwards, and it won’t matter what time of day it is; you’ll feel that your heart rate will be raised.”

Perrin recommends 30 to 45 minutes high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with active rest built into your time. Work hard for 30 seconds with moves like burpees to get your heart rate up, then spend 45 seconds to a minute doing things like push-ups, squats and curls (if you have access to weights) to keep your blood moving.

The best workout in between big vacation meals

You’re in Italy going to town on every incredible pasta, gelato and Barolo opportunity that comes your way. Although your heart may be full, your body may feel horrible. Exercise could be the answer to your bloated woes; at the very least, it could ready you to eat again later.

“Most people are going to want to be sedentary, but it’s good to get up and start moving,” Delaney says. “Avoid doing anything too intense. The last thing you want to do is make yourself nauseous.”

In between meals, Delaney recommends spending 30 to 45 minutes doing yoga, walking in the pool or light weight training. Perrin is also on the weight-training train.

“What you want is to go slow and work out with a heavy weight,” he says. “You may want to start with upper body, because doing things lower body – those kind of body movements may upset your stomach.”

The best workout when you only have 15 or 20 minutes to spare

A travel workout doesn’t have to be long. It’s about quality, not quantity.

“A big deterrent for people is they think a workout has to be super long,” Delaney says. “If you can find time to work out, even doing 20 minutes a day is amazing.”

When you don’t have a ton of time to spare on your trip, Delaney recommends grabbing a jump rope. It’s one of her favorite workouts at home and on the road.

“Aside from the convenience that you can do it anywhere and the affordability, it is the best overall conditioning exercise,” she says. “You get cardio, you get upper body training. It’s also a great endorphin release.”

If you’re new to jumping rope, Delaney stresses the importance of moving just your wrists (vs. your arms), and not trying to jump super high. When shopping for the right rope, make sure you pick one that’s the appropriate length for your height.

For Godso, Tabata HIIT training (a type of high-intensity interval training) and EMOM (or every minute on the minute) workouts are best for crushing 10- to 15-minute openings.

“You can really fry yourself in 15 minutes,” she says. “Pick a few drills, or keep it so simple, and do two exercises.”

Try tackling Godso’s signature “hot sauce” burpees (or one of its many variations) coupled with something like mountain climbers, or following a workout from the Nike Training Club app.

The best workout when you don’t have access to a gym

Hotel gyms are a luxury. Not every hotel has one, and not every person stays at a hotel when they travel. But there’s plenty to do without weights and cardio equipment to get a good workout in.

“I would take it back to basics,” Perrin says. “Do a one-minute plank. Ten push ups, then a one minute wall sit, then 10 squat jumps. One minute of crunches and 10 reverse lunges each leg. You don’t need a ton of room. You don’t need any equipment.”

Take your workout outside, when possible. Go for a run around town.

“I hate running, and I’m very open about it,” Godso says. “But when I travel to Europe and I go places like Paris, it’s such a gorgeous city to run around and a great way to see all of the monuments.”

The best workout before your flight home

When the party’s over and you have to fly, drive or take the train home, squeeze a workout in beforehand to save your body a little transportation-related pain. Because your gluteus maximus muscles will be dormant for a while, Perrin suggests focusing on exercises that will fire up those glutes ahead of time.

“After you get off the plane, you’re going to be less sore,” Perrin says.

Before a big flight, Godso prefers well-rounded hybrid exercises, like combining boxing with strength training. She tries to find exercises that will activate her glutes and core before locking in for a sedentary flight.

“I love to do a bit of a combination between strength and HIIT. That is my ideal,” Godso says. “Everyone is different, but what you want to do is get your body moving. You definitely want to sweat.”

The best workout when you don’t want to work out

Don’t feel like it when you’re on vacation? Then don’t bother.

“I never work out on vacation. My wife always works out on vacation. Everyone is different,” Perrin says. “Do whatever you want to do, and don’t feel bad. Get rid of the ‘I need to work out’ mentality.”

Godso stresses that being on vacation is about being happy – not beating yourself up over missed gym time or indulgent foods.

“Your body isn’t going to remember if you have two meals off script,” she says. “It’s about mental relaxation.”

The experts’ advice is a little different for the business traveler, though. Road warriors can struggle to create or maintain a workout routine in a routine-less life. When you’re really struggling to overcome the urge to flop down on the hotel bed, but you still want to get a sweat session in, Perrin suggests going in with low expectations.

“All [business travelers] need to do is move,” Perrin says. “Plan to walk into the gym and do your favorite exercises. It doesn’t have to be heavy, doesn’t have to be your best workout. Continue the habit of moving.”

If you’re yearning for nostalgia and authenticity, here are eight cities across the globe that promise an unforgettable journey into the past.

In a world racing toward modernity, there’s something magical about cities that have preserved their old-world charm. These destinations transport you to a bygone era, where cobblestone streets, ornate architecture, and timeless traditions tell stories of centuries past. The romantic allure of Europe, the cultural richness of Asia, the colonial elegance of the Americas – these cities offer a rare chance to slow down and savour history. From grand palaces to quaint alleys, every corner feels like a living museum. If you’re yearning for nostalgia and authenticity, here are eight cities across the globe that promise an unforgettable journey into the past.

Here Are 8 Cities Around The World That Exude Old-World Charm

1. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is often called the “City of a Hundred Spires,” and for good reason. Its Gothic churches, Baroque palaces, and medieval streets create a fairy-tale setting. Stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, explore the Old Town Square with its Astronomical Clock, and lose yourself in the charm of Prague Castle. The city’s rich history and vibrant cafe culture make it a perfect blend of old-world elegance and modern vibrancy.

2. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is the heart of traditional Japan. With its serene temples, wooden teahouses, and centuries-old gardens, the city feels like a portal to the past. Wander through the historic Gion district, where geishas still grace the streets, and visit the golden splendor of Kinkaku-ji. In spring, cherry blossoms add a poetic touch to Kyoto’s timeless beauty.

3. Vienna, Austria

Vienna exudes imperial grandeur. Once the seat of the Habsburg dynasty, the city is adorned with opulent palaces, classical music halls, and elegant coffeehouses. The Schonbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral are must-visits, while a waltz performance will transport you straight to the 19th century. Vienna’s café culture is an experience in itself-order a melange and soak in the old-world sophistication.

4. Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is a jewel of the Caribbean with its colorful colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. The walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is brimming with history and romance. Bougainvillea-draped balconies, lively plazas, and centuries-old fortifications make Cartagena a feast for the senses. It’s a city where every sunset feels like a painting.

5. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a medieval masterpiece. Its canals, stone bridges, and gabled houses give it the nickname “Venice of the North.” Explore the Markt square, climb the Belfry for panoramic views, and indulge in Belgian chocolate as you wander through charming lanes. Bruges is a city that seems frozen in time, perfect for those who love history and tranquility.

6. Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is a sensory delight steeped in tradition. The city’s labyrinthine souks, ornate palaces, and vibrant gardens evoke centuries of Moroccan heritage. Lose yourself in the medina, marvel at the intricate tilework of Bahia Palace, and sip mint tea in a riad courtyard. The call to prayer echoing through the air adds to the city’s mystical aura.

7. Krakow, Poland

Krakow is one of Europe’s most enchanting cities, with its well-preserved medieval core and Renaissance architecture. The Main Market Square is a hub of history, while Wawel Castle stands as a testament to Poland’s royal past. Stroll through Kazimierz, the historic Jewish quarter, and soak in the cultural richness that defines Krakow.

8. Havana, Cuba

Havana is a city where time seems to stand still. Classic cars cruise past pastel-colored buildings, and lively music fills the air. The colonial architecture of Old Havana, combined with its vibrant street life, creates an irresistible charm. Enjoy a mojito in a vintage bar and dance to the rhythms of salsa-it’s the ultimate old-world experience with a Caribbean twist.

These cities remind us that progress doesn’t have to erase history. Their old-world charm is a treasure worth preserving-and experiencing. So pack your bags and let nostalgia guide your next adventure.