The Best Airport In The World: Singapore Changi Airport | Insider Business

If you're a seasoned traveler, you're well aware of the typical airport routine. Rush through security, find your gate, grab a subpar meal, and attempt to make yourself comfortable on those unforgiving terminal chairs. But what if I told you that there's an airport in the world that's nothing short of a marvel? Singapore's Changi Airport is no ordinary hub; it's an extravagant oasis in the realm of air travel.

Breaking the Mold

Let's start by debunking the myth that airports are solely about transit. While most of us race through them to get to our destinations, Singapore's Changi Airport defies this convention. It's not just a place to endure your layover; it's a destination in itself. You might be asking, "Why spend so much on an airport?" Well, this tiny island nation decided to invest heavily in an aviation masterpiece, and the world is all the better for it.

The Jewel That's Landside

Changi's crown jewel, the Jewel, is a splendid feat of architecture. It's landside, which means you don't need a boarding pass to experience its splendor. Nestled between the control tower and Terminal 1, this awe-inspiring structure took four years to build and was funded entirely through private investments.

The Jewel is a giant donut-shaped shopping mall, an architectural masterpiece that deserves a place on your travel bucket list. You can enter through a footbridge from Terminal 3 ticketing, and you'll be greeted by ten floors of sheer wonder – five above ground and five below. The centerpiece of the Jewel is the Rain Vortex, a 130-foot-tall indoor waterfall that runs 24/7 using mostly recycled rainwater. At night, it transforms into a canvas for a mesmerizing 360-degree light show.

A Green Oasis Amid the Sky

Singapore is renowned for its lush gardens, and Changi Airport has embraced this theme inside the Jewel. What's truly remarkable is that 99% of the plants are real. Yes, you read that right – real plants growing inside an airport. It's a testament to Singapore's commitment to creating an immersive and enchanting environment. As you stroll through this green oasis, it's easy to forget that planes are taking off on the other side of the dome.

At the pinnacle of the Jewel lies Canopy Park, an ethereal space that costs just about $6 to enter. Inside, you'll find mirror and hedge mazes, and even Sky Nets that allow you to bounce above the treetops. And for the brave-hearted, there's a glass-bottom bridge that hangs 75 feet above the ground, offering a thrill like no other.

The Luxurious Side of Air Travel

Now, you might be wondering about the practical side of this airport utopia. If you're airside, there's no shortage of amenities to keep you engaged during your layover. A third of Changi's passengers are in transit, and the airport takes this into account. The Transit Hotel offers rooms right by the gates, providing you with an extraordinary view of planes taking off. Even if you're not staying in the hotel, you can enjoy the 24-hour gym and pool, all open to the public.

But Changi doesn't stop there. It offers a free butterfly garden, where a thousand butterflies of 40 different species flutter around, providing a whimsical touch to your airport experience. And if you have a few hours to kill, there's even a movie theater, playing the latest films around the clock.

The Mall That Happens to be an Airport

Changi Airport is more than just a transportation hub; it's a high-end mall. You'll find an array of luxury shops, from Louis Vuitton to Balenciaga, and Fendi. In 2022, the airport raked in approximately $120 million from shopping alone, emphasizing that it's as much a luxurious shopping haven as it is an airport.

For the foodies, there's Singapore Food Street in Terminal 3. It emulates a traditional 1960s hawker market and offers all the classic Singaporean dishes you'd crave. And the best part? It's an affordable dining option, with most plates priced at under $10.

Why Invest in an Airport?

Now, the big question remains: Why did Singapore invest so heavily in an airport? The answer is threefold.

First, the airport is a massive revenue generator. Despite its modest population of around 6 million, Changi Airport hosts between 30 and 70 million travelers annually. It contributes over a tenth of Singapore's GDP and supports a whopping 375,000 jobs on the island.

Second, the expansion of the airport's infrastructure, including the upcoming Terminal 5, will significantly increase its capacity and accommodate an additional 50 million passengers. This expansion is a strategic move to attract more flights and generate more revenue.

Lastly, the airport serves as a reflection of the luxury and grandeur that Singapore and its flagship airline, Singapore Airlines, represent. This luxury has sparked a trend in Asia, where airports are transformed into opulent travel experiences, making them global frontrunners in the aviation world.

So, after spending ten hours at Changi Airport without a flight to catch, my verdict is clear: Add this airport to your bucket list. It's not just an airport; it's an extraordinary destination that promises excitement and luxury, making your layover an experience to remember.