Massage Chairs at the Airport?

Article written by Anytime Travel

An airport might seem like an odd place to witness enchanting gardens or a spa massage table, but the fact is that airports are recognizing the need for pampering during travel. Walking the terminal at LAX, you’re not likely to find comforts like sleep pods or facial spas, but first class passengers will begin to get a taste of these luxuries in 2014. In fact there are a host of new health and well-being initiatives starting to debut in airports all over the world

There was a time when sitting at an airport meant uncomfortable seating in a crowded lounge. It used to mean bitter coffee and impatient people staring at a screen and waiting for new on connections. If monotony was a commodity, airports would have a monopoly on it.

Airport Massage

It was the hospitality industry that so inspired airports to actually care about a customer’s well being. Airport lounges are now being outfitted with massage chairs and swanky bars and meeting areas for travelers. Even shower rooms are becoming commonplace, especially in heavily trafficked airports like Heathrow, where travelers routinely arrive from red-eye flights.

The weary traveler now has many options for rejuvenation:

• Facials with a side of oxygen help relax the skin and clear the feeling of breathing pressurized air.
• Massages relax the joints from being forced to sit upright.
• Gardens and set pieces give travelers something distracting to take their mind off of the stress of flight.

At London Heathrow, customers can get time at a travel spa, where a full body massage can help prep a traveler for the next flight, or for work.

Airport Spas

For now, these spas are reserved for first class travelers and customers who belong to special clubs, but the treatments will eventually open up to all. First class passengers also get some of these perks on a complimentary basis, so there is value in upgrading your flight if you intend to fly long distances.

The spa treatment isn’t standard fair, but it is enough to relieve some stress. You can usually find treatments in the 15-minute range, with your choice of shoulder massage or facials. Some airports even offer a hot stone massage to relax your feet.

Oxygen Spa

Oxygen spas are also becoming popular amongst air travelers looking for relief from the pressurized cabin. That stuffy air isn’t just a bother, it’s stressing you out! An oxygen spa replenishes your oxygen supply and leaves you feeling relaxed and ready for the next flight.

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The preceding guest post was brought to you by Comfort Soul, makers of flat top massage tables for comfort in the face-down position.