Here are some ways to start your festive holiday off on the right foot
Jetting off to find some sun or winter fun? There’s plenty of things to keep you entertained and fuelled for your flight at T1 Manchester Airport.
Here are our top tips for making the most of your airport experience.
Cosy up with a festive winter warmer from Starbucks
Nothing quite says ‘Happy Holidays!’ like a soothing cup of hot cocoa. At Starbucks in T1, they’ve got plenty of seasonal specials to indulge in like the Toffee Nut Latte, Winter Apple Spiced Tea and, our personal favourite, the Caramel Waffle Latte.
Travel the culinary world at one of T1’s restaurants
Flying on an empty stomach is a no go, and when there’s so many delectable eats available at Manchester Airport, why would you? Skip feeling hangry and sit down for a meal at Giraffe, the child-friendly chain serving international favourites at breakfast, lunch & dinner.
There’s also The Grain Loft where there’s portion sizes to suit all, from starters and small plates, to larger signature dishes, tasty veggie burgers and succulent meats from the grill. Or if you prefer sharing a few slices with your mates, PizzaLuxe is the place to go.
In a rush? Pick up a satisfying savoury snack from Pret or Upper Crust.
Get a seasonal sweet treat from Krispy Kreme
Don’t be a Grinch this festive season! Grab yourself something sweet from Krispy Kreme, like their Gimme S’more doughnut loaded with marshmallows and drizzled in chocolate - the perfect sweet pairing to go with your hot drink from Starbucks.
Get your souvenirs early or take a piece of home with you
Who says gifts and trinkets are just for the way back? Whether you’re visiting family members who live abroad, or you just want to take a piece of Manchester away with you, local independent retailer The Sculpts has a beautiful selection of festive favourites, like their Manchester Bee Christmas Bauble, and gorgeous products that are suitable for gifting all year round, like their Honeycomb Bee Espresso Cup and Saucer.
“Opening here was amazing for us,” says Sarah Kelly of The Sculpts, “But I think it was equally as amazing for Manchester airport as they now have a shop where people can buy a beautiful piece of artwork that reminds them of their time in Manchester, that’s of really good quality and made right here in the city.”
Talking about the popular products in store, Sarah says “The tiles are always a favourite and our prints do very well, but our new range of ceramics, tea cups and saucers, and espresso cups and saucers sell really well,” adding “They’re a kind of pick-up-and-go gift. If you’re going to visit family or friends, they’re really nice and make a beautiful present.”
This Manchester-born brand stocks everything from bespoke lettered tiles and initial mugs to greetings cards and adorable bee-shaped lapel pins. Plus, if you spot something you like on the way out that doesn’t need to come on your travels with you, you can have your items delivered right to your door, ready for when you get back.
Have one last check to make sure you’ve got everything
Are you absolutely sure you packed that EU plug? If you’re swapping snow for sunshine, be sure to take some sun cream with you. Luckily, Boots and WHSmith at T1 is here to save the day if you’re in need of any last-minute essentials. From skincare to travel pillows and toiletries that’ll certainly fit in your hand luggage, you’ll be good to go.
Plus, you can pick up a cheeky festive meal deal to keep you in the holiday spirit and save you getting hungry on your journey. Win, win.
Check out our video below for more travel tips. For more information on Manchester Airport, visit ManchesterAirport.co.uk.
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