Just a few days ago, good news was given to our former (worst) Manila International airports. Now, it is listed as one of the Top 10 most improved airports in the world. Yey!
If you have a long layover, I’ve lined up all the things to do to keep you happy, relaxed, and occupied, from the best dining picks to the most relaxing spa treatments!
MORE SPACE
Gone are the days when our international airport is so dull you want to escape from it. Now it has made many improvements, particularly Terminal 3 (where I think I became a regular guest). I’ve noticed that there are days it is jam-packed with passengers.
And there are days that the airport is empty.
So each time I travel, there are no more boring times here at NAIA Terminal 3.
More food selection and restaurants
Terminal 3 is now well-lit unlike before, and has many stores and food options to choose from. Many restaurants have opened, and even fast-food chains for those who travel on a budget. Or you may opt to try various food selections at the Food Hall. If you want more upscale dining, you may visit the Marriott's Manila Café. Believe me, you will never go hungry.
You may try to have this humble ramen at Kaishu. They serve delicious and budget-friendly ramen that is perfect while you are waiting for your flight.
More waiting chairs
Yes, chairs!
Gone are the days when most people are all sitting on a floor uncomfortable and feeling so stressed out. Now, passengers can comfortably sit on many waiting sitting areas provided. All spaces are clean and tidy. However, we request all passengers to be more mindful and considerate of others, so please no sleeping and occupying the whole chairs.
Free wifi
Yes, you read that right, and I couldn’t be happier. Some of you still have work to do online before you take off, and some of you want to leave an IG story for your family before heading to your dream destination. Don’t worry now coz NAIA Terminal 3 offers a free Wi-Fi connection. I’ve tried it more than once and I enjoyed it.
But I admit I like reading books while waiting for my flight.
Books? There is a bookstore available. You may drop by the National Bookstore at NAIA Terminal 3 and grab your latest book, or be updated with your favorite influencer as she became the cover of this month’s issue.
Spa and Massage
I love having massages and enjoying my time at the spa, that’s why I was so happy when I found out that I could do it while I was at the airport. I’ve tried having an hour of whole body massage at Mkenko Spa, upon my arrival from Hong Kong.
It was so relaxing, and I felt so refreshed after my flight. They also have packages with free showers, which I recommend that you indulge in. If you are not into body massage, they also have foot and hand massage, and a place to leave your jam-packed luggage while waiting.
More tidy toilet
In all senses, having clean and tidy comfort rooms (or toilet) for both genders are very important. I’ve noticed that more comfort rooms are constructed, and the facilities are functional. All comfort rooms are handicapped-friendly.
Convenient access to Runway Manila
If you are feeling more adventurous, you may pass through Runway Manila and head to the other side, the Resorts World Manila for more entertainment, shopping, and food adventure. No need to hail your cab going to Resorts World from NAIA Terminal 3.
I’m so glad that our Manila airport is now lifting high from the worst airport into the top most improved airports this year, and I’m excited for more changes that the management will bring us.
For fellow passengers, always be mindful of others. Trust me, it will give you more good karma and make your travel more enjoyable.
I really don't like layovers because I never know what to do. This is a great list of things to do! Great tips. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYeah that's the same feeling I have when I travel overseas. So now I'm in a quest of listing activities to do while waiting in the airport.
DeleteIncredible airport. Sometimes we need a place to relax when we are waiting for our fly and this looks so cozy spot.
ReplyDeleteI agree. Especially if we have hours to wait for the next flight. Better to spend it in a relaxing way.
DeleteThose pics are so cute and attractive. Thanks for sharing this great news.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome! Please visit the Philippines soon.
DeleteThose changes sounds greats. My city airport doesn't have so many stuff to do. We are still small. I would love to try that ramen.
ReplyDeleteYeah this ramen priced humbly, but there's also upscale ramen shop nearby. I will try it soon.
DeleteOh my gosh, what a gorgeous terminal. I don't think the ones in the States look this lovely. I could kill time for sure here. Normally I just sit down and read a book.
ReplyDeleteOh I did that as well. That's why all my luggages have a book for me to read.
DeleteI don't like any layovers but when I do end up having them, I tend to compare airports and what I can find to do there plus it's also great to see what every country does to invite people into their country.
ReplyDeleteI think I would hate it if I am stacked in an airport and nothing to do.
DeleteThis is a great article I must say because there are not much articles available on the internet to tell you what to do when you are at the airport. I am so glad that there are multiple food joints. That is all I need if I go somewhere, lol xD
ReplyDeletehaha yeah I agree. They even have fast-food chains like McDonalds!
DeleteWow what a turn around from worst to top ten in the world. That's no mean feat. I tend not to have layovers when i travel thankfully but I wouldn't mind doing one there.
ReplyDeleteThank you dear! Yeah this airport was listed as one of the worst, but now rising up!
DeleteTerminal 3 looks great now! Some amazing food options too....so many more chairs from the time I went too, I’m sure I had to sit on the floor!
ReplyDeleteHahaha now you can sit on many chairs, unless you are more comfortable sitting on the floor, which is okay coz the floors are much tidy now.
DeleteI always surf the web on my layovers. I do prefer nonstop flights as less flying for me.
ReplyDeleteI agree. But if there's no choice, this layover guide is very helpful.
DeleteThese are some well thought tips for layovers. I hate flying so I usually spend my time before the plane loads drinking vodka.
ReplyDeleteHahaha cheers for that!
DeleteWhile I'm not a fan of layovers, this airport seems like they got it right. I was sold when I saw the spa! I would love to visit the spa on a layover.
ReplyDeleteYeah I like their services. Very relaxing. Next time I will try their mani and pedi
DeleteThat ramen looks bomb! Anything with food I am down for.
ReplyDeletehahaha thanks! I will try the other food joints soon.
DeleteWow what an airport, it looks like there is a lot to do in the airport, but I have to admit I would be pretty overwhelmed I think.
ReplyDeleteHahaha thank you dear, but this airport is quite small. Try the Changi Airport in Singapore - it is like visiting a different country apart from Singapore, hahaha
DeleteI would love to visit Manila! I heard its a really beautiful country.
ReplyDeleteYes please visit us here!
DeleteI think I would most likely find myself going to that spa for some pampering services.
ReplyDeleteYou will surely love it Stephanie :D
DeleteSuch an interesting post topic. Great information! Getting stuck in a terminal for multiple hours can be a real headache... unless you have some great tips!
ReplyDeleteI agree. This could save you a lot. Or you may opt to stay in the nearest hotel.
DeleteI never get a chance to have layover and always with kids stick to one place only.
ReplyDeleteWith kids, it is hard to take a layover. But this would be helpful, in case you have one.
DeleteSuch a nice thing to know that Philippine Airport have improved a lot I remember the days that I went there it is really different from what they have right now.
ReplyDeleteOh when is your last visit?
DeleteI think it's awesome that the airport has a lot to offer now compared to before. The spa is a game changer! Love it!
ReplyDeleteThanks Alison!
DeleteOhh a massage at the airport would be amazing. Definitely more to do and explore than you tend to get in European airports x
ReplyDeleteOh I haven't been to Europe. Do they also have spa in side the airport terminal?
DeleteWhat an airport. Sometimes we need a place to relax when we are waiting for our flight
ReplyDeleteThat is true! It will help you to relax and not feel stress while waiting.
DeleteAren't there any duty free shop - that makes an airport part of tour itinerary? anyways, the present look of the airport truly is world class. This should be a big boost for tourism in the country.
ReplyDeleteYeah there is a duty free shop, but not all are into shopping.
Deleteok...I am jealous!!! I travel a lot and almost in every trip I have, I must spend a few hours between the flights...and gues...no spa there! Definately tis has to be fixed!
ReplyDeleteOhh that is very tiring, indeed.
DeleteI want to just visit this airport and not fly anywhere! There are so many great things to do here!
ReplyDeleteHahaha I do that always and it was fun!
DeleteThe airport in Manila looks amazing! I am hoping to visit my friens in the Phillipines next year so I'll have to check that spa out in the Manila airport!
ReplyDeleteThat's cool! You will definitely enjoy the Philippines, and lots of spas :D
DeleteWow it looks like your airport is way better than ours. There is so much to do, even I wouldn't mind the layover here.
ReplyDeleteOh really? How's the airport in your city?
DeleteI SO love the fact that they have made so much changes in the airport so that people will feel more comfortable and entertained while passing time!
ReplyDeleteI agree. Even me who is not flying out, I can enjoy the whole amenities, and free wifi!
DeleteWhen it comes to airport terminals I could happily spend all my time there, so much to see and do, plus eat.
ReplyDeleteI agree! As long as you follow the airport law then its okay :D
DeleteI'm really impressed with the amazing makeover. I love a clean and spacious airport with lots of duty free shopping and places to eat. Sounds like a great spot for a layover.
ReplyDeleteThank you dear :D
DeleteI visit this place twice a week and not travelling outside, just enjoying the place :D
Such a big selection of shops, restaurants and activities! It sounds way better than London's ariports ahah! I'd be up for a massage!
ReplyDeleteOh so no spa inside London airport???
DeleteIt sounds like this airport got a nice facelift! How exciting.
ReplyDeleteThank you Ada!
DeleteMe and my friend had our flight cancelled and had to wait ages for the next one so the idea of a massage and delicious food would definitely have kept us happy during that time!Glad you enjoyed your layover x
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't mind waiting now because I have lots of things to do inside. They will be opening more stores and more spas :D
DeleteIs it just me or is this airport ridiculously pretty? Looks like a fun place to hang out!
ReplyDeleteOh thank you Kate!
DeleteThat is such a great idea to do while layover in the airport terminal. if I did not really know what to do for me while waiting for my flights.
ReplyDeleteAnd I don't like just sleeping while waiting.
DeleteYep, I agree, a lot of improvement! I love the different sides and corners of NAIA 3 - array of food stalls and shop. How I wish may Mabuhay Lounge na rin si Pal para panalo lalo :)
ReplyDeleteYeah hopefully, that will be sosyal!
DeleteI didn't expect such a huge and modern airport. Thanks for this list of activities. There's plenty to do during a long layover.
ReplyDeleteThanks Emily. But this airport is very small compared to Changi! Changi airport is like a separate country from Singapore, hahaha
DeleteThere is nothing worst that not having enough seats in an airport (and you would be surprised how some of London's airports don't have enough). Manila airport looks great now that it has been improved and there's always nice to have a spa where you can spend a few hours during the layover.
ReplyDeleteOh I see. And I noticed that people passing airports are quite grumpy. Now I have no reason to be grumpy coz there's a spa.
DeleteWow, I was grinning from ear to ear while reading your blog post, maybe because I've heard so many cynical things about NAIA. And knowing that it is now included in improved airport around the world, there will be more tourist coming in the Philippines. I love that it looks spacious now and there's a lot of selections inside. Thank you so much for sharing this with us.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome! Small improvements counts :D
DeleteWOW! I've never seen an Airport with so much to do! This looks amazing
ReplyDeleteCome and visit the Philippines!
DeleteSo glad to hear that the Manila International Airport is getting a new lease on life! It looks like it has undergone many positive improvements. I also like they offer so much to do in the event of a layover! Thanks for sharing🌞
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, hope you can pay a visit even in Manila :D
DeleteSuch great tips! If I ever get stuck, I know what to do. Thanks for sharing!! :)
ReplyDeleteYou are always welcome Michelle!
DeleteThere are so many things here to make a layover seem like a breeze. I love that they have a spa and so much good food!
ReplyDeleteI agree, and foods are not too expensive. You can have McDonalds!
DeleteThis type of post is so good! I love that you curated all of the great things to do for a layover. <3
ReplyDeleteThanks Jennifer! I need to pay a visit again, because I heard they opened many additional stores!
DeleteLiked the food there. In Europe, the food in airports is usually crap. What's the price in euros? :)
ReplyDeleteYou can use xe.com for conversion.
DeleteThat airport looks wonderful! I'd be okay just visiting this airport--it looks so nice, haha. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteYeah, sometimes I visit here to eat ramen :D
DeleteI end up becoming tired after a layover. But getting a spa sounds like a good idea. Have you tried that ever?
ReplyDeleteI became a regular here and took body massage after a long flight.
DeleteWow! I must have passed through the Manila airport countless times without experiencing any of this. When were these improvements made?
ReplyDeleteI think it became the improvements since two years ago, during the new government seated.
DeleteI have never seen such a luxurious looking airport. I think all international ones should follow this style and decor.
ReplyDeleteOMG! This airport is still in its humble look. Check the futuristic Changi Airport in Singapore. It is like you are inside a different country!
DeleteWhat a lovely airport! It looks like a mall.
ReplyDeleteYeah, wait when you see HK Airport and the Changi. They are tremendously awesome.
DeleteI have noticed that more and more airports are adding more stores and restaurants making them more pleasant to be at when need be.
ReplyDeleteYeah, it drives more tourists and makes the travelers feel comfortable.
DeleteReally??? That's so nice! And nag spa ka pa talaga after your flight? hahaha good for you. I can only dream of such luxury after a trip haha Anyway, the airport looks soooo nice already. Something to be proud of :D
ReplyDeleteHahaha girl mura lang naman!
DeleteYes, it looks very well-lit. Now I just have to get there. Went to TBEX is Stockholm instead of Manila.
ReplyDeleteOh you should visit Manila after the TBEX :D
DeleteCan't believe there's a spa at the airport!!! I mean I've seen massage stands at plenty, but never a full on spa room with showers and all that. How convenient! More airports need to start having this hahaa.
ReplyDeleteI agree and I love visiting this NAIA Terminal 3. Last weekend I visited the Terminal 1, and it is waaaaayyyy far and ugly compared to Terminal 3.
DeleteThis terminal of Manila looks like a luxury hotel or a shopping mall. For a big layover there are many things to do here. I would love to go for spa and massage during my layover.
ReplyDeleteThanks Yukti. But seriously, our Terminal 3 is no big deal compared to Changi Airport in Singapore. That one is splendid glamorous!
DeleteUnfortunately, this is only terminal 3, which you cannot get to from other terminals. Believe me, terminal 2 is a nightmare! No food, no water, no seats, no screens to tell you about your flight, etc. And they tell you you can’t leave during a long layover but there’s no food and water? And no seats?
ReplyDelete