The hidden rooms in airports around the world
As travellers make up for time lost during the coronavirus pandemic life is slowly being breathed back in airports around the world.
It’s been two years since international borders snapped shut and fleets of planes were grounded, pausing travel for billions of people.
Yet, it would appear 2022 is the year of returning to the skies.
This could also mean the return of wait times, large crowds and cancelled flights - things that can cause stress and anxiety when flying.
While many of us can relate to the stress of flying, there are potential remedies on offer at airports.
If this surprises you, it may well be because they are kept out of sight.
Sleep room
Inside Las Vegas McCarran International Airport there are a series of sleep rooms.
The private rooms, equip with twin-size beds, allow travellers to relax and recharge.
The price of a nap starts at $43 (US$35) for two hours.
Ten hours will cost you $150 (US$110) and a 20-hour stay will set you back $240 (US$180).
Reservations include access to the airport’s fitness centre, showers and towels.
The sleep room inside the Las Vegas McCarran International Airport. zerolevelfitness
Meditation room
For travellers needing to catch their breath, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has a spot dedicated to quiet.
The Meditation Centre is described as a non-denominational and interfaith space for prayer, meditation or just to relax in silence. It is open 24-hours, seven days a week.
Multi-sensory room
Within the walls of Pittsburgh International Airport there's a special room. Known as Presley's Place, the room is a multi-sensory space for young passengers. It also includes a realistic airplane cabin experience.
Miami International Airport has its own version of the multi-sensory room, with an aquatic bubble tub, wall puzzles, cushioned seats and a light projector.
The multi-sensory room within Miami International Airport. Miami International Airport
Yoga room
Long haul flights can be tough on the body. Passengers travelling through Chicago's O'Hare International Airport have an option to stretch it out. The airport has a dedicated space to do just that.
The room features a sustainable bamboo wood floor, floor to ceiling mirrors on one wall and exercise mats.
To create a more natural environment, plants line the outside of the windows.
Dog park
For those travelling with pets, travel can also be a little daunting for our fury friends.
At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport you'll find a fully fenced-in 92-square-metre dog park.
It is here where pet owners can take their pooches for a run about and allow them to do their business ahead of their flight.
There is also a pet relief area on the arrivals level of the International Terminal.
The dedicated dog park at Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in Atlanta. Hartsfield-Jackson
Chairman's Lounge
It appears it's all about power and prestige when it comes to Qantas' Chairman's Lounge.
If you're after a membership to this club, it could be a long wait as it's invite only.
They're hushed, there's heaps of space to work, private suites for taking phone calls or meetings and capacious showers with fluffy towels and bathrobes. There's also buffet and an à la carte menu and alcohol at all hours of the day.
Qantas won't reveal its members list, though based on a Parliamentary Register of Members' Interests Traveller found Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese both have memberships.
