Florida’s Orlando International Airport is the second-busiest airport in Florida – second to Miami International Airport. While the airport serves as a hub for Silver Airways; which is a United States-based airline, it also receives airlines from international destinations such as the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, and many more. The airport, therefore, has to offer a wide selection of facilities and services – not only because it is one of the busiest airports in the area, but also due to the fact that it sees passengers from all over the world.
While some would think the services and facilities offered at an airport are not that important – we only spend a couple of hours at most in an airport, right? – others would disagree. Passengers on long layovers or even those on short ones tend to look for basic facilities such as restrooms, food outlets, free Wi-Fi, etc. While Muslim travelers will require all of the above-mentioned facilities, they may also be in need of a place to offer their prayers, and dining establishments to suit their specific dietary requirements.
The Orlando International Airport is known for integrating art into its design. The airport has a permanent art collection; created by local and international artists, which can be seen throughout the airport. The works of art not only add to the airport’s interior by making it more dynamic, they have also been known to spark an interest in passengers.
For passengers looking to get a bite to eat while at the airport, both; terminals A and B, offer a selection of mouth-watering options. Food items found at the airport range from pretzels, ice cream, and donuts to burgers, pizza, and sandwiches. Travelers will also be able to find eateries serving steaming cups of coffee and tea, in both terminals. The Orlando International Airport is home to well known establishments such as Chili’s, Cinnabon, Dunkin’ Donuts, Starbucks, McDonald’s, Panda Express, and Auntie Anne’s.
Although there are no Halal-certified restaurants at Orlando International Airport, Muslim passengers at the airport will definitely be able to find numerous eateries serving vegetarian and seafood items. They should however ensure the items they order do not contain any non-Halal ingredients, as these ingredients are sure to be widely used.
Travelers who have some time to kill at the airport should explore the numerous shops and boutiques. Stores selling books, luggage, clothing items, gifts for kids and adults, perfumes, jewelry, electronics, eyewear, watches, and more, can be found at the airport. Also found here is a spa, ideal for those looking to get rid of the stress that comes with traveling. An interfaith prayer room at Orlando International Airport is also available for Muslim passengers. The prayer room - which is also referred to as the Orlando airport interfaith chapel - is shared by passengers of all faiths, and is equipped with prayer rugs for Muslims along with other Muslim-friendly facilities.
*Please note that at the time this article was written, a "Reflection Room" - a room meant for Muslims to offer their prayers, was being built.
Cover Image Credit: Visit Orlando
