Strange Airport Facilities around the World

Normally sitting in the airport during a layover means stale sandwiches and trying to sleep on uncomfortable plastic chairs, however there are quite a few airports out there that have really upped their game.

Whether you’re stuck waiting for your flight or you’ve just arrived early, here are some weird and wonderful airport facilities around the world that’ll make your wait a lot more fun!

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol – Art Museum

When you think of an airport, the first thing that pops into your mind is definitely not an art museum; however the Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has a museum called the Rijksmuseum that is open on a daily basis. Feel free to visit and soak in the beautiful exhibits and paintings.

Vancouver International Airport – Aquariums

There are not only one, but two aquariums in the Vancouver International Airport. Come and view a range of marine animals and plants, like sea urchins, jellyfish and eels. Believe it or not, but there is also a creek running through the terminal and the largest leafy wall in North America!

Hong Kong International Airport – Golf Course

Did you miss your morning game? Don’t worry because at Hong Kong International Airport you can play nine holes, simply bring your equipment or rent some. You can even hire a caddy for your game!

Tokyo Narita Airport – Oxygen Lounge

Did you ever think you would need to use an oxygen lounge? Well in the Tokyo Narita Airport they offer a facility where they pump oxygen directly into your lungs. No, this isn’t your plain old oxygen; this oxygen comes in some awesome flavours including cinnamon.

Miami International Airport – Canine Therapy

This isn’t therapy for your dog, but a trained pooch that encourages passengers to stop for a minute and play! The loveable golden retriever travels around the airport wearing a “pet me” vest, bringing smiles and happiness to otherwise stressful travel.

Zurich Airport – Nature Trails

Switzerland is a gorgeous place, so it is only fitting that they want to bring the beauty of Mother Nature to their Airport. Explore and find a nature conservation area between the runways, you can even rent bicycles and walking poles for the day.

Chicago O’Hare Airport – Dinosaur Skeleton

In terminal one, towering four storeys above you will find one of the biggest dinosaur skeletons in the world! The Brachiosaurus is on loan from the National History Museum and stands 22 metres tall – take a look if you want to kill time as well as learn a little something.

Some airports have gone all out when it comes to out of the ordinary airport facilities - what do you think?

Airport Shuttle is an affordable and reliable way to get to and from the airport in Cape Town and Durban - book your shuttle today!

How to Survive Travelling with Teenagers

Travel is one of the most important things you can experience with your child. However the teen years can prove quite tricky and travelling with them can be a bit of a challenge.

Make your next trip as teen-friendly as you possibly can with these helpful tips:

  Ø  Get them involved

From the very beginning of your travel adventure, make sure that your teen is involved. Get them to help with choosing a destination, creating itineraries and planning activities. Getting them involved will stir up the excitement and give them a sense of responsibility. Even during the trip, make sure you assign them fun tasks such as taking photographs of the surroundings or navigating with the GPS.

  Ø  Tough love

This one is a challenge, but it needs to be done. Find a way to convince your teens to leave behind their most precious items, like their tablet, laptop, gaming device, etc. They may protest and cause a scene, but these items will only distract them from spending quality family time together. After a day or so, they’ll come around and you’ll see how much more engaged they’ll be.

  Ø  Give them space

Even on holiday, teenagers still need their space. This can be tricky if your whole family is stuck in a small hotel room. If possible, it would be great to book separate or adjoining rooms for your older kids. This will give them some space to breathe after a long day of family bonding.

  Ø  Just chill

There’s always so much to do, but so little time. Make sure when you’re on your vacation that you don’t try and fit too many activities into one day, this will only cause tension and leave everyone feeling frazzled and ready to snap. Rather spread your plans out over a few days and leave time to just chill, like lying by the pool or watching a movie together!

The teen years are an important time to spend time with family and form a life-long bond. Travelling with teenagers can be difficult, but it is worth the challenge!

Airport Shuttle is a shuttle service that operates in both Cape Town and Durban. If you need to get to and from the airport comfortably and on time - book your Airport Shuttle today!