THE FLIGHT
AC3 to Tokyo, economic system
THE ARRIVAL
Attending to Vancouver Worldwide Airport from downtown is simple, because of the Canada Line prepare which delivers you there in half-hour, however I’m transferring from a home flight that landed on the airport’s South Terminal, which is additional away than you would possibly count on. It’s a 15-minute (free) shuttle trip to the worldwide terminal and my luck is in: I solely have to attend 10 minutes earlier than the shuttle arrives, and there are many seats accessible.
THE LOOK
For 12 years in a row, Vancouver Airport was named one of the best airport in North America within the annual Skytrax awards. This yr it was pipped on the submit by Seattle-Tacoma Worldwide Airport, contemporary from a $US1 billion growth, however Vancouver continues to be a delight. The ethereal, light-filled terminal has an actual sense of place, with indigenous artwork positioned all through the terminal. Different items celebrating British Columbia’s pure treasures embrace the dramatic Wave Wall, a 40 metre by 10 metre sequence of glass panels depicting the ocean. The considerate design offers travellers loads of locations to sit down and calm down away from the primary thoroughfares. The airport has even recruited a guitarist to supply stay music, and each the choice of laidback tunes and the quantity are good.
CHECK-IN
Lengthy check-in traces appear to be the rule nowadays, so it is no shock to seek out myself caught in a queue. The road is just not outrageously lengthy nevertheless it strikes at a glacial tempo. Just a few counters are open – workers shortages strike once more – however the greatest drawback appears to lie within the detailed paperwork required by the Japanese authorities (the foundations are simplified the day after my flight), with a lot of furrowed brows as workers painstakingly test by way of every passenger’s paperwork.
SECURITY
The lengthy wait at check-in has me anxious about how gradual the safety test could also be, however that’s functioning far more easily. I breeze by way of and am quickly airside.
FOOD AND DRINK
Throughout my keep in Vancouver, a number of individuals point out that Salmon and Bannock, the acclaimed restaurant specialising in indigenous delicacies, has a brand new airport outlet. I am decided to not miss it, so earlier than I’m going by way of safety I head to the knowledge desk to verify whether or not it’s positioned airside or landside. Sadly, I am advised it is not really open but. As an alternative there are the standard selections accessible, together with Asian and Italian retailers and a Subway. I skip these and cease in for a salad at a extra upmarket eating outlet positioned by my departure gate.
RETAIL THERAPY
If in case you have cash to spend and room in your carry-on, it is price making a cease at Lattimer Gallery, positioned landside. It is a department of a revered Vancouver gallery showcasing the work of indigenous artists. Relatively than low cost souvenirs, what you’ll discover listed here are beautiful artwork items, from silk scarves to bentwood packing containers. Costs mirror the abilities of the artists.
PASSING TIME
The airport has put a pause on the guided excursions it as soon as supplied, however you possibly can nonetheless obtain a self-guided tour map from the airport’s web site that highlights among the most attention-grabbing options. If in case you have a protracted layover and do not feel like taking the journey into city, the five-star Fairmont Vancouver Airport Resort provides day charges.
THE VERDICT
It might have misplaced its crown however Vancouver continues to be head and shoulders above most North American airports.
OUR RATING OUT OF FIVE
★★★★½
