It’s time to make the boring stopover a thing of the past. With a little planning, stopovers offer a great opportunity to unwind or to get out there and see some of the best parts of a city, while saving a pretty penny too. Our data shows that travellers can save up to 44% on the price of flights by adding just one stopover.
To help change the way you see a stopover, we’ve put together a guide to some of the best transit airports and cities for Hong Kong travellers heading abroad. That way, you can enjoy every minute of your holiday.
Taipei – Stopover time: 2 hours or more
Taoyuan International Airport offers travellers free gym facilities, gaming and cultural galleries, as well as mini movie theatres to enjoy during transfers. Massage chairs are available at Terminal 2 and travellers can enjoy a free 15 minute massage with tokens from nearby duty free shops. Just don’t fall asleep and miss your connection.
Singapore – Stopover time: 2 to 6 hours
Changi Airport was voted the Best Airport for Sleeping in 2015 and it’s no surprise with the number of free massage chairs available. These chairs even have built-in mobile charging outlets, allowing transit passengers to recharge their bodies and, more importantly for some, their devices. By flying with specific airlines, passengers can also receive a SG$20 (HK$110) voucher that can be redeemed at the iShopChangi information centre. If you have a longer stopover and an appetite for adventure, enjoy a free half-day sightseeing tour of Singapore from selected airlines. The tour includes some of Singapore’s best attractions like the Merlion Park, Gardens by the Bay, and the vibrant neighbourhood of Kampong Glam.
Bangkok – Stopover time: 3 to 8 hours
Offering glittering temples, bustling markets and delicious food, Bangkok has a lot to offer as a stopover. Suvarnabhumi Airport itself has numerous fantastic restaurants and relaxing spas. If you’ve got a few hours to spare, consider visiting the amazing Grand Palace, shopping around Siam Square, or sharing a meal at one of the floating markets by the river.
Seoul – Stopover time: 3 to 8 hours
Seoul is a shopper’s paradise. If you need a new holiday outfit and you have the time, venture out to the boutiques in Myeong-dong or Cheongdam-dong. Don’t worry if you’re travelling overnight – Dongdaemum night market is open from 8:00 pm to 4:00 am. For those who prefer to relax in transit, we recommend the spa at Incheon International Airport. Take a moment to indulge in the full Korean sauna experience and rejuvenate for the next leg of the journey.
Dubai – Stopover time: 8 hours or more
If you’re winging your way via Dubai, even the shortest stopover gives time to try the endless tours and activities available. Head out of the airport and into the markets at the traditional Spice Souq or the Gold Souq, book a tour of the tallest skyscraper in the world, Burj Khalifa, or a desert safari to see the wilder side of this glamorous city.
