Last few times I've been through (European) airports it's been waaaay more chill than it has been for decades. Yeah there are armed soldiers, but they're just wandering about and it's more reassuring than anything. Security is way more lax, they're relaxing the stupid rules about liquids and stuff, and the staff are friendly if a bit over-professional.

Always love the duty free bit too, it's like a really overpriced shopping mall but with caviar and Patek Philippe :) Splash on some free sample aftershave then off for a 7 euro pint of IPA, and sit and literally watch the world go by. What's not to like?!?