Nobody likes to get stuck in an airport. But with the upcoming holiday travel season upon us, many will experience the frustration and tedious task of sitting around an airport with nowhere to go. But rejoice angry travelers, there are actually a few hubs that can be delay-friendly to customers. SeatGuru founder Matt Daimler put together a short list of the “Top Five U.S. Airports to Get Stranded In.” If you are unlucky enough to get stuck at one of these locales, you may just want to hang out a little longer than planned (or maybe not). But they are all still much nicer than any of my area airports around the Big Apple.

As somebody that has been to each of these listed airports, I highly agree with the list.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO): Passengers familiar with the Bay Area airport know that a stop at the famous Boudin’s Bakery is a must. Got some money to throw away or a credit card to swipe? Then check out ultra-chic shops like Burberry, Coach and Gucci. Passengers looking to ease the stress of being stranded need to stop by XpressSpa for a soothing massage. The airport even has showers to get the smell of “airport” off of you before getting back on your next flight.

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): A clean airport? Wow. Sorry I am just used to traveling out of New York’s LaGuardia. SLC is a travel tech geek’s best friend, as it provides free Wi-Fi throughout the airport. Not electronic gadgets to play with? Then just look outside at the beautiful views of the Wasatch Mountains. The Utah airport is also very green with a well known award winning pollution prevention and recycling program. Plus there is a good chance you will not be stranded here that long, since SLC is the best on-time airport for departures.

McCarran International Airport (LAS): Think you need to book a trip to Las Vegas in order to lose all your cash gambling? Think again. This Sin City airport is fully stocked with a plethora of slot machines! Yeah maybe that flight to Grandma’s house can wait a few more hours. For passengers not feeling so lucky, check out the other airport highlights including a collection of massage stations, an aviation museum, room check-in for the MGM Grand (which I have used and loved), free Wi-Fi, and the glorious Jose Cuervo Tequileria! If you are stuck in the desert for an extended period of time, than take a gamble and haul a cab to the strip, which is just 5 miles away.

Miami International Airport (MIA). The airport at Miami is a lot like the city of Miami. It is chock full of shops dedicated to making you look your best. Manicures, pedicures, hair salons, massages and even spray tanning are available while you wait for your connection. Sitting around an airport can make you feel pretty gross, so why not have a diva moment and look your best en route to your final destination. If playing dress up is not your thing, fill your rumbling belly at one of the 30 delicious dining options that range from Cuban to Caribbean.

Portland International Airport (PDX). Another eco-friendly airport makes the list of hubs you may want to spend some extra time in this holiday season. PDX has been configured with new solar power panels, provides free Wi-Fi throughout, and best of all there is absolutely no sales tax! Pick up a slice at Pizza Schmizza and down a few pints at Laurelwood Brewing Company.

Source SeatGuru.com and picture courtesy of Flickr member Martin Dougiamas