Not a nature-lover? Head to the rooftop swimming pool in terminal one for a splash around or the 24-hour free movie theatres in terminal three (pictured) to catch a new release. Alternatively, enjoy some art: the stunning Kinetic Rain centrepiece in terminal one is purportedly the world's largest kinetic sculpture.

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The beach's sandy ridges mean landing is a bumpy affair and at high tide, the three runways are entirely submerged. The airport building is tiny with just the essential amenities – but the astonishing ocean views will keep you occupied while you await your flight.

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Architects Richard Rogers and Antonio Lamela won the Royal Institute of British Architects Stirling Prize in 2006 for the airport’s calming design. There’s more beyond the striking building, with a range of designer shops and Spanish restaurants serving Iberian ham, manchego and Rioja wines.

Beyond the mighty jungle, pockets of green are dotted throughout the terminals. To find some extra zen, passengers can head to the airport spa for a massage or a treatment. Future pilots will adore the plane-themed playground on level five, while adult aviation enthusiasts will also delight: a 'Spotter's Deck', with perfect views of aircraft arriving on the runway, was opened in 2019. 

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In fact, the gateway to one of Thailand’s most popular destinations is almost as beautiful as the island itself. The airport's entrance is marked by this decorative control tower, and once you're through security, most of the airport is open-air: there's even an outside play area for children. There's no doubt you'll find it very hard to board the plane home from here.

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Helsinki's airport incorporates some core principles of Finnish design, from minimalistic pine-covered walls to plenty of nooks you can curl up in with a book (or laptop). In autumn 2023, another cosy wooden offering will appear at the departure gates: Relove, a coffee shop with an eco-conscious twist. It offers travellers a caffeine fix and the world's first second-hand store located inside an airport.

The adventure starts as soon as you hit the runway of this Indian Ocean paradise. Take a picturesque seaplane or an adrenaline-pumping speedboat ride to get to your resort – just hold on to your luggage.

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You can also take in art exhibitions at this creative hub before boarding your flight. As part of its award-winning Arts at the Airport programme, enjoy works by local, regional and national artists, which rotate on a seasonal basis. Past exhibitions include 'Spectacle Butterfly' by the Boston-based artist Hilary Zelson, made from around 500 pairs of sunglasses.

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Known as the gateway to Mount Everest, this tiny airport in Nepal is one of the best in the world for its dramatic views on landing and take-off. Its terrifyingly small 1,729-foot (527m) runway is perched on a cliff, with a 2,000-foot (609m) drop to the bottom.

As the airport doesn't have a control tower or radar, it’s also considered one of the world’s most dangerous. Weather can also be unpredictable in the area. In 2011, hundreds of Mount Everest trekkers were stuck for a week due to continual fog.

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Enter Wellington’s main international terminal and you’ll be greeted by a fearsome dragon. An enormous model of Smaug the Magnificent from local film director Peter Jackson's The Hobbit series is hidden away in a rocky facade, keeping a beady eye on passengers as they check in.

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Tallinn will never be the biggest airport in the world, but it’s certainly up there with the cosiest. Stop by KOHVer café to pick up a coffee and fresh pastry, then stay for the Estonian handicrafts and knick-knacks on display. This hygge place is sure to keep you entertained for a while.

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Where else but Munich would you find the world’s only airport brewery? The beers, served in Europe’s largest covered beer garden, include regulars such as Fliegerquell, a bitter lager, and seasonal specials. Oktoberfest is all year round at this phenomenal airport.

Munich has a lot going for it, including an impressive food and beverage offering. Sportalm serves hearty Bavarian food in a log cabin-style setting (complete with ski lift and all). A menu filled with sausage, stews and fondue will certainly get you in the mood for a trip up the Bavarian Alps.

You don't need to leave the confines of the airport to experience some Bavarian culture. The airport hosts its own Christmas market from mid-November and throughout December. Admire the towering Christmas tree, pick up some handmade gifts from the 50-odd stalls, sip a glühwein or take a spin on one of two ice rinks before boarding your plane.

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