A Passport Brother’s Guide to the Region

For expatriates relocating to Southeast Asia, understanding the region’s major airports is essential for vacationing,  initial moves, and regular business travel. A recent survey by *The Telegraph* ranked six Southeast Asian airports among the world’s top 70, highlighting their importance as international gateways. 

Although I do not necessarily agree with the inclusion of some airports on the list, it’s important to note that all are frequented by Ex-pats and particularly by Passport Bros.  Real Passport Bros are men typically age 40 and older who hope to have a second chance at love and marriage with a foreign women. They are not a beacon of sex tourism, they are reminders of simpler, more traditional values and roles for men and women.

Singapore Changi: The Region’s Crown Jewel

Singapore’s Changi Airport (SIN) leads the pack, earning the top spot globally. Its exceptional facilities include the world’s largest indoor waterfall, outdoor terraces with lush greenery, and even a swimming pool. For expats frequently traveling through Southeast Asia, Changi’s extensive hotel options and entertainment facilities make layovers surprisingly enjoyable.

That said, Singapore is arguably one of the most expensive places in the region. It serves as the definition of high-end travel in Southeast Asia. It’s less of a place for men and women to mingle and more of a family spot for husbands, wives, and children to enjoy the city scenery.

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport

Ranked 35th globally, Bangkok’s main international gateway serves as a crucial hub for expats working across Thailand and Indochina. The airport’s strategic location, just a short drive from Bangkok’s central business district, makes it particularly convenient for business travelers. The abundance of high-quality hotels within two miles of the terminal provides excellent options for those attending early meetings or dealing with late arrivals.

If you plan to visit any of the more well-known places in Thailand for tourists and Digital Nomads like Chiang Mai, BKK is the airport you can expect to spend some time in. It’s large and busy with the ramblings of multiple languages, Malaysian, Mandarin, Tamil and some English.

Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International

Coming in at 38th place, Jakarta’s main airport reflects Indonesia’s growing importance in the global business landscape. Serving nearly 50 million passengers in 2023, it’s the third-busiest airport in Southeast Asia. For expats working in Indonesia’s rapidly expanding economy, the airport’s three terminals offer extensive international connections.

Ah, Bali, my Bali. It is the proverbial dream vacation spot for many Americans and most women. I remember Tony Robbins speaking often about Bali back in his heyday (90’s). Back then it was a secret low-stress vacation destination. Now it is crowded, congested, and filled with annoying tourists – so I am told. 

Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat

Ranked 44th globally, this airport’s proximity to Ho Chi Minh City’s center (just 8km away) makes it particularly appealing for business travelers. Recent upgrades, including automated immigration gates, have improved efficiency – especially valuable for frequent travelers. The airport’s growing passenger numbers reflect Vietnam’s increasing attraction for international businesses and professionals.

Many people argued against the inclusion of SGN airport on the list. They claimed it was too small, too congested, and the services were usually unsatisfactory at best. Security can be a nightmare and immigration moves like a glacier. 

It’s also home to a lot of scams by the locals – but what airport isn’t? My wife, who’s Vietnamese, was recently approached during an attempt to repackage her oversized shipping container. The man claimed to know the correct dimensions for her airline, (Starlux) and offered to repackage her box for a fee. This is likely a two-part scam. First, her box met the required dimensions for the airline so paying for a new box and wrapping is a waste. Second, they’d likely try to distract her while they stole something from her box. 

Still, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is one of the cheapest cities on this list. You get what you pay for. And, the food in Vietnam is delicious; Anthony Bourdain said so!

Kuala Lumpur International Airport

Malaysia’s primary gateway ranked 46th in the survey. While located 45km from downtown, its excellent express train connection makes it accessible for business travelers. The airport serves as a key hub for expats working throughout Malaysia and offers extensive regional connections.

Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International

Ranking 66th globally, Manila’s main airport saw impressive growth in 2023, handling 45.3 million passengers. For expats working in the Philippines’ booming business process outsourcing sector, this airport serves as their primary international connection.

Please note: The Phillippines has an airport fee that must be paid by tourists and digital nomads when you leave. It’s one of the few airports that make you pay to leave the country,

The Numbers

The rankings considered over 30 criteria relevant to frequent travelers, Digital Nomads, families, vacationers, and gap-year backpackers including:

– Connectivity and flight reliability

– WiFi speed and mobile charging availability

– Quality of restaurants and lounges

– Rest zones and outdoor spaces

– Overall passenger experience

For expatriates establishing careers in Southeast Asia, these airports are vital links to regional business opportunities and connections to home. Their continued improvement reflects the region’s growing importance in the global economy and its attractiveness for international professionals. For Digital Nomads who desire a safe but nice and inexpensive place to live, these airports provide connection to the resources they need to survive and thrive.