Weary travelers looking to catch a nap inside an
airport can rarely escape the noise and bustle of the terminal. But one airport
has a unique, egg-shaped solution.
Abu Dhabi International Airport recently unveiled
cocoon like sleeping chambers inside one of its terminals. The 10 GoSleep pods
are chairs that convert into flat beds and feature a sliding shade that
isolates the occupant from noise, light and crowds.
(Read More: Flight Delayed or Canceled? How to Get Rebooked Fast)
The GoSleep pods, designed in Finland, cost about
$12.25 per hour of use.
Thirty-five additional pods will be installed later
this year with upgrades, including Web access, secure storage for luggage and
other valuables, and power ports to charge laptops, mobile telephones and other
devices.
"Abu Dhabi Airports Company continually strives
to enhance the experience of passengers travelling to, from or via Abu Dhabi
International Airport," Mohammed Al Bulooki, the airport's chief commercial
officer, said in a statement. "The introduction of 'GoSleep' sleeping
pods is another step towards exceeding customers' expectations and delivering
world-class levels of service."
While in-terminal freestanding chairs are new,
podlike units have been around for some time.
Several airports around the world offer sleepy
travelers "micro hotels" with accommodations that range from capsules
that the user must crawl into, to compartments the size of a small bedroom.
(Read more: Lengthy Airport Wait? Catch a Nap at a Pod Hotel)
And several pod hotels have popped up in worldwide
cities—including New York, Tokyo and Bangkok—as an alternative to traditional
hotel rooms for short-duration stays or budget-conscious travelers.
(Read More: Luxury in a Tomb-Size Hotel Room)
So, road warriors ... would you plunk down some cash to snooze
in an airport pod, or do it old school and lie down on an empty row of
gate-side chairs?
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