Everytime I visit Taiwan’s international airport, once Chang Kai Shek Airport but now renamed to Taoyuan International Airport, I am both surprised and impressed, promising myself to write something about it when I get back – but never get around to it. I’ve been to some fine world-class airports, but I really like the Taiwanese one, and I have to say that every time I come by they add something new that makes it even a more pleasurable departure/arrival to/from Taiwan.
The last time I got there they added the Taiwan Youth Travel booth to the information center, with big visible signs on my way out pointing me to the opportunities Taiwan’s offering the likes of me under the age of 30. They have an excellent shuttle service from the airport to just about anywhere in northern Taiwan, etc. etc.
This time, taking off to India, I saw all the sections they have on the departure gates, with free Internet stations, free Wifi, a free gaming zone, small museums featuring some of Taiwan’s beauty – aboriginals and flowers, prayer halls, children playgrounds, and surprisingly enough – drinks and food with prices that are comparable to prices outside the airport.
Arriving 2.5 hours before the flight and going through checkin and passport area in 5 minutes, the 2 hours waiting for my plane in the airport were a breeze. The only such experience I can remember was the Singaporean airport. They’ve done a really great job with this airport.