Sep 11, 2001 06:20 PM
3100 Views
Atlanta's Hartsfield International Airport is currently listed as the world's busiest airport. Atlanta is the ''hub'' for Delta so many of it's flights connect there and we have family in Georgia as well, so our family has done a fair amount of walking and exploring at this airport.
The drive to the airport is manageable, even at high commuter times and the exits are clearly marked as are the various terminals and parking areas within the airport. Once you have checked in, there is plenty to explore, if you have time in the terminal atrium. There are many restaurants and shops. There are plenty of phones and fax machines and other business necessities. Although this area is fascinating-it tends to be very crowded most of the time. There are many more places to shop or eat in the concourses. As with most major airports there is an easily accessible hotel for those who need it.
This brings me to the transportation system. From the terminal, you enter the transportation ''mall''. From here the 4 main concourses and the new ''T'' gate areas are accessible. There are three choices-walk, take the moving walkway (kids love this) or take the train. Going one or two concourses away-taking the walkway and walking are manageable. If you are going further, short on time, or carrying a lot-take the train. Be aware that the moving walkways will stop and start and you will need to do a fair amount of actual walking.
Each of the terminals has a variety of shops and restaurants. There are more in concourses A and B including a full service Chili's Restaurant and branches of Waterstone's Books and The Body Shop. You can also find local items and other shops including golf shops, the Disney Store, shoe repair and much more.
The gate areas are well marked and the airport staff are all very pleasant and helpful-true Southern Hospitality. I found a new addition the other day. At each gate (at least Delta gates) there was a screen that gave up to date information about that particular flight, weather at the destination city and other information including how many passengers were confirmed on the flight. This screen is also used to notify standby passengers if a seat is available.
Hartsfield is immaculate. I've never found trash or a dirty restroom regardless of the time of day or night of travel.
Most people don't go to airports for fun, but at least at Hartsfield, the atmosphere is great and you can always find something to do when you are stuck.
