Traveling through the new Tulum International Airport may offer a visually appealing experience, with natural light flooding the passenger terminal and creative design motifs inspired by Tulum’s jungle surroundings. However, one glaring issue that stands out is the lack of food and beverage options available to passengers. This could pose a significant challenge for travelers looking to grab a quick bite before their flight or to stock up on snacks for the journey ahead. The absence of open eateries in the passenger terminal after security or in the arrivals terminal prior to screening is a major drawback, leaving passengers with limited choices when it comes to satisfying their hunger or thirst.
While signs promising the arrival of familiar fast food and fast-casual dining chains such as Starbucks, Popeyes, Burger King, Subway, Applebee’s, and Le Pain Quotidien may offer hope for future travelers, the current situation leaves much to be desired. The only stores open post-security include a duty-free shop that primarily sells alcohol, a local convenience-style market with Mexican junk food and candy, and a clothing store. The limited options available may force passengers to rely on pre-packed snacks or meals they have brought with them, as the prospect of finding a satisfying meal at the airport seems unlikely.
The absence of refilling stations for water bottles is another oversight at Tulum International Airport, adding to the inconvenience faced by passengers. In an era where sustainability and eco-friendliness are at the forefront of many travelers’ minds, the lack of facilities for refilling water bottles is a missed opportunity. This could have been a simple yet impactful addition to the airport’s amenities, catering to the needs of environmentally-conscious travelers and reducing the reliance on single-use plastic bottles.
Despite the limited food and beverage options, the airport does provide a comfortable waiting area for passengers. Communal charging stations for phones and large portable fans inside the terminal add to the convenience of waiting for flights. The presence of art installations throughout the airport, such as the sculpture in the front courtyard depicting a hand emerging from the ground with a small palm tree growing out of it, adds to the aesthetic appeal of the space. However, these amenities may not fully compensate for the essential services lacking in terms of dining options and water refill stations.
While the Tulum International Airport impresses with its design and artistic motifs inspired by the region’s heritage, it falls short when it comes to meeting the basic needs of travelers. The absence of sufficient food and beverage options, as well as the lack of water refill stations, highlight areas that require immediate attention and improvement. As the airport continues to develop and expand its facilities, addressing these fundamental necessities will be crucial in enhancing the overall passenger experience and ensuring that travelers are adequately catered to during their time at the airport.