Foreign Tourist's Criticism of Shanghai's Pudong Airport Sparks Debate
On February 20, a video was shared on WeChat channel 微观上海 that quickly sparked heated discussions among netizens.
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The video, featuring a foreign tourist, showed him expressing frustration with Shanghai's Pudong Airport. "Shanghai airport sucks," he exclaims in the video, emphasizing that, despite the airport's massive size, there were "no beds or loungers" for passengers to rest on. He sarcastically added, "I know this ain't a premiere, but come on, sleep on the floor?!" The security guards would tell him to "up."
The clip quickly went viral, leading to a barrage of online reactions. Many viewers were quick to point out that an airport is not meant to be a hotel. "This is an airport, not a hotel," one user commented.
Others were more specific, pointing out that the tourist was in the check-in hall, a place designed for passengers to register for their flights—not for lounging or resting. "Who would expect to sleep in a check-in area?" said one netizen. "Even if there are capsule hotels at airports, they wouldn't put them in the check-in hall. Imagine everyone queuing for their flight while watching you sleep!"
One ironically commented, ""Well, why not complain that hotels don't have airplanes either?"
Some also offered practical suggestions for the foreign traveler. "There are chairs in the waiting area after you pass security. Just go through and you'll find a place to sit comfortably."
Others shared their experiences traveling through other airports, mentioning that Singapore's Changi Airport, often regarded as the best airport in the world, provides ample spaces for rest, with dedicated VIP lounges, transit hotels, gardens, and even a free cinema. "Changi Airport can afford all of these amenities because it's the world's busiest transit hub, and the Singapore government encourages airlines to offer layover services to boost local commerce," one commenter explained. They went on to point out that many domestic airlines in China prefer direct flights, meaning passengers are less likely to have long layovers and therefore don't need as many rest areas in Chinese airports. "Besides," they added, "the tourist was in the check-in hall, which is not meant for sleeping."
A few offered solutions to the issue. "If you really want to lie down at Pudong, there are hotels between the terminals where you can book a room."
What Are Your Thoughts?
While the video's release sparked controversy, it also brings to light some valid concerns.
What are your experiences with Pudong Airport? Do you have any suggestions for improvement? Let us know in the comments!
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