Airline lounges are an invaluable resource to the frequent traveler. When times are tough and stressful, they are an excellent resource to recover and when you’re on a leisurely vacation they are a great way to get your travel started in luxury.
Membership
Most airlines have frequent traveler or other reward-based programs where you are entitled to a whole retinue of upgrade options and improved meal and beverage choices. Of course, these are well-known additions to getting better seats for a fraction of the cost of upgrading your seats on an individual basis. These perks are great on their own and very popular, but common among them is a way to gain entrance to these airport lounges. Some airlines have different degrees of luxury and freebies, corresponding to different degrees of membership, such as whether one is a first class member or a business class member or how often they fly or whether they are using the particular airline credit card or other loyalty reward.
Members of the lounge will find some great customer service and personal attention that they might not get from the main gate personnel which can be a very welcome change of pace.
Popular Lounges
The American Airlines Admiral’s Club in Los Angeles International Airport is one of the best in terms of ease of use. It is located in Terminal 4 on the concourse level right by Gate 40. It is open twenty and a half hours a day and features complimentary WiFi and PCs to use it on, as well as bathroom amenities such as showers and even a room for the kids to play in.
The Malaysia Airlines Business Class Golden Lounge London Heathrow is also at Terminal 4, albeit 8,000 miles away in England. It is next to Gate 6 and the Gulf Air Lounge. It features wide and luxurious seating and decorative furnishings throughout. Not just Malaysia Airlines, but OneWorld and Emerald members have access to this first class airport lounge. But there’s plenty of space for all these passengers as this lounge is one of the largest found in an international multi-service terminal.
Other Popular Lounges
The Qantas First Class Lounge in Sydney and the Qantas Business Class Lounge in Hong Kong are very popular with travelers. They allow customers who have any Qantas flight to partake in their offerings with a guest who is not a member, provided they are on the same flight. In some cases, even affiliate airlines, such as Emirates, are enough for entrance. Some of the food includes Neil Perry original dishes and there is cocktail service with signature specialty drinks or simple beer and wine. Or, if it’s not that hour yet, there are hot breakfasts for a welcome change of pace from the airplane fare.
The Thai Airways Royal First Class in Bangkok Suvarnabhumi airport makes it a point to greet you with a responsive hostess and a flute of champagne. This lounge is well known for its opulence and luxury, as members enjoy caviar and beverages in a spacious cabin. There is usually a masseuse available to help prepare you for your flight.