TWA, JFK
NEW York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport has its first on-site hotel housed behind the iconic TWA Flight Center.
Designed by legendary Finnish American architect Eero Saarinen for Trans World Airlines in 1962, the world-renowned building has been largely unused since the airline’s closure in 2001.
However, the historic building has been given new life in the form of this futuristic hotel, which boasts retro-chic touches throughout, a rooftop infinity pool and observation deck – with a pool bar – and observation deck with views over the runway.
The TWA has 512 soundproof rooms with mid-century modern-inspired furniture, the world’s largest hotel gym and a slew of bars and restaurants, including The Paris Café by Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
Creating much buzz in the city is the hotel’s cocktail bar, The Sunken Lounge, which has been restored to its original 1962 glory by Gerber Group, complete with the historic chilli pepper red-carpeted lounge and 1960s classic cocktails.
As well as overnight stays - rates start at AU$351 per night - rooms can be booked for four hours for those arriving in the early hours of the morning, or travellers with longer layovers.
Naumi Auckland Airport
Drawing inspiration from a native New Zealand bird, this playful newcomer is a breath of fresh air for digital nomads seeking an alternative to the conventional.
Combining eccentric design with warm, personalised service and a refreshing sense of fun, the Naumi Auckland Airport is the first New Zealand property for the Singapore-based, family-owned Naumi group.
Located just minutes from Auckland International Airport – there’s a free shuttle bus – and surrounded by lush, manicured gardens, the 193-room lifestyle hotel has pops of colour at every turn and visual installations, which provide a sensory experience for guests.
There are fun shared spaces, a family-friendly outdoor pool and mini golf course, gold-plated reception backdrop and complimentary treats.
Travellers seeking an upscale dining experience can feast at Paksa Bar and Restaurant where chef Miguel Adriano creates Asian-fusion dishes using fresh, seasonal fare.
Pullman Brisbane Airport
Brisbane is having a moment.
With a slew of five-star hotels opening in the city in the past year and Brisbane Airport being named the Best Airport in Australia/Pacific at the 2019 Skytrax World Airport Awards, the Queensland capital is no longer regarded as a big country town.
With Qantas recently announcing two non-stop new routes from Brisbane to Chicago and San Francisco, the five-star Pullman Brisbane is a stylish place for business and leisure travellers to rest their heads before an overseas flight.
Named the Best Airport Hotel in the Pacific region at the World Airport Awards, the Pullman Brisbane offers both convenience and absolute luxury.
The hotel features 132 rooms, including two Executive Suites, six Junior Suites and 12 Deluxe Executive Rooms, and a beautiful 20-metre lap pool surrounded by daybeds for some rest and relaxation in Brisbane’s sub-tropical climate.
The culinary offering is just as impressive with the 90-seat Apron, the hotel’s fine dining ground floor restaurant, overseen by renowned chef, Marco Lodigiani.
The Westin Los Angeles Airport
Located just steps from LAX and close to Manhattan and Playa Del Rey beaches, this hip hotel is loved by business and leisure travellers alike.
In true Californian style, The Westin LAX has a dedicated Surf Concierge and a ‘Touchdown LAX, Surf Manhattan Beach’ program, which includes a 90-minute surf lesson for guests wanting to hit the waves.
Wellness is a key focus for Westin properties and travellers can stay fit while abroad and check into a wellness suite outfitted with Peloton bikes, hire some New Balance gear and head out for a run or hit the WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio.
The 12-storey hotel boasts 747 rooms and suites, a café focused on healthy eating and the Daily Grill Restaurant & Bar.
Those who are happier with a book and cocktail rather than an arduous workout can catch some of those famous Cali rays and indulge in some people watching on the pool deck.
The Pullman Miami Airport
WITH its tropical surroundings, outdoor pool and French restaurant, this contemporary, resort-style hotel is an upscale option for the modern traveller in transit.
With Miami International Airport a major hub for those travelling to the Caribbean, Central and South America, the Pullman Miami Airport is an attractive option for a lush layover.
Overlooking a blue lagoon, the high-rise hotel, located minutes away from the airport, the port of Miami in Downtown and South Beach, has 281 chic rooms with views over the lagoon or the Miami skyline.