While arriving at your destination is definitely the most exciting part of any overseas trip, sometimes getting there can be just as exhilarating – especially when you are visiting the world's largest airports!
These impressive airports are so large and packed with attractions they are almost a destination in themselves, and exploring them can be a memorable part of your trip. However, visiting such large-scale airports can also be a little daunting, especially if you are new to travelling.
Here are a few of the world's largest airports and what to keep in mind when you visit them:
Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport)
This massive airport is one of the largest in the world, and it's also one of the most exciting to visit. Aside from people watching as you wait for your flight, there are plenty of facilities to take advantage of. Also known as the 'Comfort City Airport', there's plenty of restaurants, shops and duty-free shopping. Why not spend the time before your flight dining on delicious and authentic Japanese food and picking up a few souvenirs?
In order to make your experience at Haneda drama free, it pays to do your research before you arrive. Study the airport terminal information map to get your bearings and helpful service facilities such as banks and currency exchanges, baggage storage and car rental services.
It will also be helpful to figure out transport options from the airport. From Haneda, you have the option of travelling by train, monorail, bus or taxi, and there are also shuttle buses across to the domestic terminal.
London Heathrow International Airport
This gigantic airport covers 1,227 hectares, travels to 180 destinations in 85 countries, and had a total of 72.3 million passengers arrive and depart from its two runways in 2013 alone. The sheer size of this airport will make it a little more difficult to navigate than your average airport, so we suggest arriving extra early for your flight in order to avoid any last minute panics.
However, any visit to Heathrow will be an incredible experience. There's a huge number of restaurants and bars, offering fine cuisine and beverages with international inspiration. A bubble tea from Bubbleology is bound to refresh you before a long journey! On top of this, there's also many shops and duty free shopping options – you can even hire a personal shopper to help you pick out some fashion-forward pieces.
This airport also offers special events. From the end of April to June 2014, the Whisky Festival will be on to celebrate the best of the best of whisky from around the world.
Beijing Capital International Airport
Known as China's number one gateway, this bustling airport is the second busiest in the world. In fact, 83.71 million passengers flew in and out of the airport in 2013 alone.
Here, you can shop and dine to your heart's content, as well as make use of airport facilities such as the 'Kid Activity Zone' while you explore shops for luxurious jewellery or a book to last the flight.
