February 8th 2025.
Air travel can often be synonymous with stress and chaos - long security lines, delays, and rushing to make it to your gate on time. However, there is one airport in Thailand that is turning this stereotype on its head.
Located on the stunning island of Koh Samui, Samui International Airport is a breath of fresh air - quite literally. Unlike most airports, this one is almost entirely outdoors, with lush tropical gardens, peaceful ponds, and open-air walkways. It feels more like a luxurious resort where you could sip unlimited piña coladas, rather than a bustling terminal.
In fact, the airport has even been dubbed "the most beautiful in the world", and it's easy to see why. Say goodbye to stuffy waiting areas and harsh fluorescent lighting, and hello to swings overlooking the runway, beanbags scattered on the grass, and greenery-filled rivers.
Lauren Wright, a 31-year-old PR executive, experienced the airport firsthand while backpacking around Thailand in June 2024. She tells Metro, "There's no better way to beat holiday blues than departing from Samui Airport. Instead of grey rows of seating and stuffy waiting areas, it feels like you're in the grounds of a luxury hotel. It's a destination in itself."
With plenty of options for last-minute pad Thai and souvenirs, as well as a departure lounge that resembles a tiki bar, it's easy to see why Wright was so impressed. The only downside? It makes leaving the tropical island that much harder.
Samui International Airport was opened in 1989 by Bangkok Airways and primarily offers domestic flights connecting to Bangkok. But it's not just travelers who are singing its praises - content creator @thesamtyler shared his visit on TikTok, declaring it "one of the most unique airports in the world".
As he strolls around the airport, he points out the various amenities, including a spa where you can get a massage to ease pre-flight jitters. And when it's time to board, forget stuffy buses or trains - Sam hopped onto an open-air transportation cart and made his way to the plane.
Other TikTokers, such as @loretoportulas, were equally impressed, calling it "the craziest airport lounge" they've ever been to. And it's not just travelers who are raving about this unique airport - visitors have described it as one of the world's most beautiful and even compared it to a resort.
Of course, with its crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and lush forests, it's no surprise that Koh Samui is also a popular party destination. It's even featured in the newest season of The White Lotus, where the show's high-flying travelers will be staying at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort.
But don't expect a budget-friendly stay - rates start at £992 per night. And while it takes just over an hour to get there from Bangkok, flights can start at around £100 on Skyscanner.
Interestingly, Samui International Airport isn't the only outdoor airport in the world. Hawaii is home to a few as well, such as Kona International Airport, which boasts outdoor gardens and courtyards for passengers to relax in before their flights. And in California, Palm Springs International Airport has several open-air elements, with many visitors flocking to the patio area to soak up the sun before their flight.
So if you're planning a trip to Thailand, make sure to add Koh Samui's unique airport to your itinerary. And who knows, you may just feel like you're already on vacation before you even leave the airport.
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[Generative AI is experimental.]
