My Favorite Priority Pass Lounges around the world

Not so long ago, the mentioning of 'Priority Pass' struck fear in most travelers. It was generally a Russian-style affair with a few carrot snacks, dingy lighting and seating in a remote part of an airport. However, clever entrepreneurs have found ways to provide great lounges for the ~$20 Priority Pass offer per guest and visit.

Here are my favorite Priority Pass lounges in the world:

Colombo, Sri Lanka - Bandaranaike International Airport - Lotus First Class Lounge

I liked this lounge in Colombo because of its extensive hot and cold food buffet and many drink options. It's also generally not crowded and the Internet works (not very fast though).



As a coffee addict, I was amazed by the barista churning out fantastic coffee drinks on request that all but exceeded my expectations. There is also a solid food buffet with my favorite Indonesian/Malayan layered cake desserts.



Bangkok, Thailand - Don Mueang International - Coral Executive Lounge

You may not like the food offered at the Coral Executive Loungein Bangkok but there is a good alcohol service and a free 15-minute Thai massage.



If you go next door to the Miracle Lounge, you can indulge in Brut Rosé Champagne before your flight, all courtesy of your Priority Pass.



Paris, France - Charles de Gaulle Airport - Star Alliance Lounge

Technically this isn't a freewheeling lounge but the Paris Star Alliance Lounge is open to Priority Pass members without time restrictions.

The hot and cold buffet is full of French delicacies and will make you forget the rather cramped space.



Come here if you have some time between your flights; it's quite far from any non-Star Alliance departure gate.

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands,Spain - Las Palmas Airport - Sala Galdos

The Sala Galdos Lounge won't be a hit in the interior design style group and does not have much food to offer. But it has incredible views over the runway and toward the mountains. There is also an endless amount of white and red Spanish wines to taste. Come early and enjoy a perfect afternoon tanning and watching planes.



Johannesburg, South Africa - O.R. Tambo International Airport -Bidvest Sky Lounge (Domestic Terminal B)

Johannesburg International Airport has a number of lounges in the international departures area; most look great but offer surprisingly slim pickings.My favorite, the Bidvest Sky Lounge, is in the domestic departures area. It has a solid food buffet (many veggies!) and tons of local wines to try.



Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Phnom Penh International - Plaza Premium Lounge andKuala Lumpur, Malaysia -Kuala Lumpur International KLIA1 (Satellite) -Plaza Premium Lounge

Plaza Premium lounges can be downright horrific (like in Hong Kong) but also can be pretty decent (like in Kuala Lumpur) or excellent (like in Phnom Penh).





Let's hope there are gonna be more positive surprises with Priority Pass lounges in the future!