The gateway to Washington State

Talk of the town: Fearing a lawsuit from a disgruntled rabbi, the airport removed 14 "holiday trees" in December 2006. Jewish leaders agreed not to sue, and the trees were reinstalled before Christmas.

Word to the wise: If you need some peace, head to the Quiet Zone at Gate B4. Free WiFi is available throughout the airport.

Sea-Tac Airport is an easily navigable complex with a decent track record for on-time flights and pleasant service staff. Alaska Airlines are based here, and offer some of the cheapest options for onward travel.

Located 13 miles (21 kilometers) south of Seattle, Sea-Tac offers several city transport links. Hotel courtesy buses, shuttles and taxis pick up at the Transport Center on the third floor of the parking garage. Several hire car companies operate out of a new facility nearby; a free shuttle will take you there from the exit to baggage carousels 1 or 15.

The newest, cheapest and usually most convenient gateway to the city is the Link Light Rail. Trains depart from the fourth floor of the airport garage every 7.5 to 15 minutes (Mon-Sat: 5am - 1am, Sun: 6am - 12midnight).