The world's best airports

The are roughly 50,000 airports in the world, of which about a quarter are in the United States.  A few weeks ago, Skytrax bravely released their list of the best 100 based on customer surveys.  Like most Skytrax surveys, the United States is noticeably absent from the top of the list making its first appearance with Cincinnati at 24th.   What is number 1? I will give you a hint; it is not this.

The list gives no points to unique airports like Male International. The Male airport is buffeted on all sides by some of the most beautiful ocean in the world; reef sharks swim just beyond luggage cart check, and the cab line is an eclectic mixture of boats and water planes.  It is like an airport from a strange dream, and yet it is really there. 

There are some great airports on this list.  Hong Kong's airport on Lantau island is a modern showpiece that is 30 minutes from the past (Tai O) and 30 minutes from the future (Central).  Singapore lives up to its billing as a the most talked about airport in the world with so many cool options.  Adults can enjoy a Singapore sling by the Crowne Plaza swimming pool (one of several pool options), and kids have access to a 4 storey swirling monster slide - the tallest in Singapore.  Schiphol in Amsterdam is perfect on account of its robust cheese selection and lodging options, such as Yotel Hotel, a by the hour type of micro-hotel with soft blankets and nice showers.


Here is a link to the full list.

1	Incheon International Airport
2	Singapore Changi Airport
3	Hong Kong International Airport
4	Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
5	Beijing Capital International Airport
6	Munich Airport
7	Zurich Airport
8	Kuala Lumpur International Airport
9	Vancouver International Airport
10	Central Japan International Airport