Getting The Most Out Of Your Layover

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Sometimes, no matter what you do you will experience a layover at the airport. For some, it can prove to be a time of mind numbing boredom. There really is no reason to sit around and be bored because there’s plenty to do in order to get the most out of your layover.

Go Sightseeing

If you only have a short layover obviously it’s not a good idea to leave the airport. For those with a long layover, however, they can get some sightseeing in instead of sitting around at the airport. If you can, make a rough itinerary before your trip so you can map out where you want to go as well as the necessary public transportation to get there. Just make sure you allow for enough time for traffic and getting through the security lines, which can be rather long.

Get A Workout In

Even if you have a long layover there’s no reason to be sedentary. Some airports have yoga rooms or fitness centers so you can easily get in a workout. If these offerings aren’t available, consider finding another way to workout such as speed walking around the airport or jogging up and down a flight of stairs.

Catch Up On Sleep

Many passengers are surprised to find that a lot of airports have designated sleeping areas. You don’t have to try to stretch out on an uncomfortable bench in order to grab a little bit of shut eye. Some airports, like London’s Heathrow, have YOTEL facilities that are basically a small cabin that can be rented so you can sleep, work or just watch TV.  If you’ve been wanting to take a nap, but can never find the time to do it in your daily life, now’s the perfect time to catch some Zs while you’re waiting for your flight.

Indulge In A Restaurant Crawl

Airports are filled with different restaurants. Pass the time by going on a restaurant crawl. Visit one restaurant for an appetizer, one for the main dish and another for dessert. Not only can you pass the time, but have an excuse to eat basically anything that you want. Obviously not all airport food is good so stick to the eateries that feature gourmet cuisine.

Write A Story About What You See

If you like to people watch, consider writing a short story based on the people you see. You will find a lot of interesting characters at the airport during your layover. Who knows, your short story may be so good that you could sell it for a few bucks or just turn it into an epic Facebook post.

Pamper Yourself

Whether its a make over at Mac, a pre-flight facial, manicure or massage, most major airports now have lots of spa options. Why not take the time to melt away stress and relax during that long lay over. Some larger airports include hair and waxing options as well.

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Sue Lobo
Sue Lobo is a four-time Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist (2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026) and Senior Travel Advisor at Atlas Travel Center, one of the most decorated travel agencies in the United States. With more than 35 years of experience in the travel industry, Sue has planned, booked, and personally accompanied trips for thousands of clients — from first-time cruisers to seasoned luxury travelers who have circled the globe multiple times. Sue's areas of deep expertise include ocean and river cruising, European tours, group travel coordination, luxury travel, honeymoon planning, and family vacation design. She is a CLIA-certified cruise specialist and works within an agency that holds IATA and ARC accreditation and maintains an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Over her career, Sue has been involved in more than 30,000 bookings and has personally coordinated over 200 travel groups — from faith-based group cruises and HBCU alumni trips to women's retreats, family reunions, and corporate incentive travel. What sets Sue apart is not just the credentials — it is the firsthand experience behind them. Sue has personally traveled to more than 20 countries across three continents, including Cuba, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and throughout Europe. She has sailed on dozens of cruise ships across nearly every major line, walked the river cruise routes she recommends, and eaten at the restaurants she suggests to clients. Her recommendations come from personal experience, not brochures. In addition to advising clients, Sue writes extensively about travel for The Traveler's Atlas blog — covering everything from cruise line comparisons and overtourism trends to destination guides and practical travel tips. Her writing is grounded in the same expertise she brings to every client conversation: honest, specific, and built on decades of real-world travel experience. Sue is based in the United States and available to help travelers plan cruises, European tours, group trips, river cruises, honeymoons, family vacations, and more. To work with Sue, contact Atlas Travel Center at atlastravelweb.com.