The Bangkok Airport is the one of the major transit airports in Asia and many travellers find that they have to change planes here and have some free time on their hands.
Most flights through the Bangkok Airport have connecting flights scheduled fairly close together, so you won’t have long to wait for your next flight. But, even so you are going to want to fill in the time and if you only have a four hour layover, there is not sufficient time to leave the airport and visit Bangkok.
So what can you do if you have a Bangkok Airport layover, before changing to another international flight?
Well the first thing is to make sure that you are checked in for the continuing flight and have been issued with boarding passes. From then on the time is your own, but here are some available options.
Airline Lounges
A First or Business class passenger will have access to their Airline Lounge. Most lounges are set up with access to the internet, have snacks and drinks available and some comfortable chairs to rest in.
If you have been flying for many hours you may prefer to walk around Suvarnabhumi airport, rather than sit in the airline lounge.
For those flying Thai Airways, there are showers in all the lounges and complimentary 30 minute massages are also available. There is nothing quite like freshening up after a long flight before you continue your journey.
Most airline lounges are closed between 12:00am and 6:00am, so check availability before you depart.
Paid Lounges
If you are a Louis’ Tavern member, then there are a number of these lounges spread around the airport that you can use.
Louis’ Tavern Day Rooms
Louis’ Tavern also has day rooms available in minimum four hour blocks. These are like a small motel room, with a bed and shower but located inside the airport. The Louis’ Tavern dayrooms are a great choice if you need somewhere private.
Traditional Thai Massage
If you find that you need to release the tension in your muscles, then why not spend the time having a traditional Thai massage at Chang Massage and Spa. There is a range of services available, including a simple manicure or pedicure, neck and shoulder massage or the more relaxing oil massage. The benefits of a Thai massage are renowned throughout the world, so go on, give yourself a treat.
Churning of the Milk Ocean
Located in the centre of Suvarnabhumi Airport is a fabulous sculptural piece entitled Churning of the Milk Ocean. It is a crafted after a story from Hindu folklore and makes a great place to take your photograph as a memory of your Bangkok Airport layover.
Bangkok Airport Shopping
Duty free shopping is never better than at Suvarnabhumi Airport and you can pick up some fine Thai silk at Jim Thompson or something more exotic at one of the many brand name stores on site.
Check before buying any liquids that you are allowed to take them on your onward flight, or you may lose them at the boarding gate.
Eating
Choose Thai, Japanese or Western food, it is up to you. There is a great selection of places, from formal dining to casual settings, so you are sure to find something that suits your budget. Just make sure that you have some Thai Baht with you as not all places take credit cards.
Reclining Chairs
Set out at strategic intervals are groups of reclining chairs where you can relax or take a nap. You may be lucky and find some available seats to while away the time.
Internet
Free internet is available at various points throughout the airport, with workstations set up for passenger use. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for limited periods before payment is required. Ask at the information counters, located at then end of the concourses, for a password.