Airports are always a contentious topic, and with the holidays coming up, airports are especially busy. Holiday trips typically mean long lines, delays, and sometimes cancellations. The Bay Area has also been the site of some recent airport drama, with Oakland’s airport attempting to change its name.
While you might have many stressful memories associated with airports, one in California was just named the best in North America. SFO was awarded the honor by Business Traveler Magazine, along with the “best independent lounge award” for SFO’s lounge The Club.
The magazine cites “high customer satisfaction ratings from the Airports Council International and J.D. Power” as a reason for the ranking. It also notes the airport’s kid-friendly environment and environmental initiatives. The Club was praised for its fitness center, Californian wine list, and trendy design, which earned it the award for best independent lounge in North America. Roughly 70 eateries and restaurants are located across the terminals, and you can find favorites like Equator Coffee, Boudin Bakery, and more. Plus, hundreds of flights depart every day, heading to both domestic and international locations.
The awards crowned Singapore Changi as the best airport in the world for the third year in a row. The airport is best known for its gorgeous indoor waterfall with large leafy plants and a glass dome. You can also find a butterfly garden, rooftop pool, and movie theater. The American Express Centurion Lounge in Hong Kong was awarded the best lounge in North America, with a menu curated by a Michelin-star chef and creative craft cocktails.
San Francisco has been featured in several rankings, from making the top 15 best cities in the world to being crowned as one of the “most fun” cities in the United States. SFO has been operating in the same area south of the city since 1927 and is owned by the city and County of San Francisco.