Prior to embarking on a long journey via the skies, I always make it a habit to explore the airport of my departure - time permitting.
Although mundane for some, I rather consider the pre-boarding process of a scheduled flight a valuable experience in itself. And one of the most fruitful ways of feeding my curiosity around aviation environments is fundamentally by walking around its interesting premises, except for the prohibited zones of course. We wouldn't want to cause unnecessary scandal, would we?
Speaking of remarkable airports, allow me to introduce to you an incredible landmark that's close to my heart: the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
From a humble-looking facility decades ago to its more recent world-class architecture, the Philippine island of Cebu takes pride in this state-of-the-art airport meant for international travelers. Although its existing domestic terminal has also been renovated alongside this brand new hub for global destinations, the entire development is definitely a progressive addition to the country's economic growth.
Holding the official record of being the oldest civilization in the Philippines, the island of Cebu is home to the second largest airport nationwide.
Walk with me as I’ll show you glimpses of this renowned project. Consider this quick tour as a sneak preview as we will only be covering a few sections of the terminal building’s exterior facade and a handful of interior spaces.
Without a doubt at first glance, the most eye-catching feature of the airport terminal’s design is its impressive roofline. Have you noticed it?
Originally conceived to mimic the waves of the ocean, the terminal building’s parapet profile resonates with a resort-like atmosphere, owing to the beach vibes and island lifestyle of Mactan, the exact place where the historic battle of its local chieftain Lapu-Lapu and the global explorer Ferdinand Magellan happened.
Lapu-Lapu City, one of the major urban centers of Cebu province is in fact named “The Historic Resort City”, the emblematic slogan of the metropolis. Isn't that amazing?
Moreover, the overall wooden color scheme of the entire aviation terminal building draws inspiration from a Philippine vernacular residence, often referred to as the “Bahay Kubo”, a natively designed dwelling. Add to that the organic elements that harness the true context of a natural environment like the seaside.
I simply couldn't take my eyes off the smart combinations of construction materials such as wood, steel, glass, and concrete. The Architect has clearly orchestrated a gorgeous assembly of architectural components that contributed to the stylish characteristic of this spectacular landmark.
Like many other conventional airport designs from around the world, its core terminal building consists of 2 levels. The ground floor typically houses the flight arrivals and exit stations while the second floor incorporates the departure doors and boarding gates.
The adjacent surroundings of the terminal building is also decorated with lush gardens, evergreen trees and foliage that help purify the air during peak seasons, providing fresh oxygen all year round.
What makes the Mactan-Cebu International Airport even more fascinating with its architectural system is the massive covered bridge on the second level that connects passengers from the main street to the departure gates. What do you think?
Hence, with its widely spacious corridors, arriving people from all walks of life would experience smooth transitions just like a walk in the park - no congestions during heavy-traffic days.
We continue our short walk to the commercial aspects of the airport terminal. Although the photos shown here belong to the domestic terminal building, just imagine what it would be like inside the international counterpart - lots of sophisticated designs, exceptional amenities, and cool technology.
An airport terminal environment would never be complete without the presence of restaurants, coffee shops, souvenir boutiques, and concession stalls. With several recognizable brands to choose from, searching for a suitable spot to dine, unwind, and pass the time will never be a problem. What famous names of commodities here have caught your attention so far?
Your walk inside an airport terminal building will never be dull and boring, let alone the amount of activities that would satisfy your senses and cure your boredom.
In my years of traveling to various international destinations, investing ample time inside these special constructed habitats were never moments of regret.
Alright, that's all for now folks - I need to catch my flight before it's too late. See you next time!
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