7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers
7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Plaza Premium Lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 2
The Plaza Premium Lounge in London Heathrow's Terminal 2 is a unique offering, as it's the only independent lounge within a terminal primarily served by lounges affiliated with Star Alliance airlines. It provides a welcome respite for travelers, boasting private suites for those needing a quiet space, along with upgraded shower facilities. Food and drink are included, with a menu focusing on fresh items and a good selection of the usual beverages. The lounge is designed with comfort in mind, though its attractiveness may be hampered by a lack of natural light due to the absence of windows. This feature might not appeal to everyone, especially those wanting a brighter ambiance. But, regardless of the airline you fly with, you can access the lounge— making it an ideal choice for economy class passengers seeking to enhance their airport experience. Furthermore, its arrivals section offers those disembarking at Terminal 2 a chance to recover before venturing into the wider world, with coffee and snacks to help rejuvenate them after a journey. It's a handy service, especially for longer-haul arrivals.
The Plaza Premium Lounge situated within Heathrow's Terminal 2 presents an interesting case study in airport lounge design. It stands out as the sole independent lounge in the terminal, unlike others generally tied to Star Alliance carriers. This independent status may provide more flexibility in pricing and services. The lounge offers an array of amenities like dedicated rest suites and luxurious shower areas, targeting a wide spectrum of travelers. Their food and beverage offering includes a decent selection of common drinks, along with a selection of freshly prepared meals.
One benefit is the lounge's accessible nature: It doesn't discriminate based on which airline a guest is flying with. While the aesthetic design is apparently appealing with its welcoming decor and functional seating, a notable drawback is the complete absence of windows, leading to a somewhat artificial environment due to the lack of natural light. It's worth noting that there's also an arrivals section of the lounge catering to travelers arriving into Terminal 2. This section comes with a basic range of amenities such as coffee, simple meals, and comfortable areas for resting after a journey.
It's quite conceivable that the Plaza Premium Lounge could appeal strongly to economy class travelers who seek a little bit more comfort and amenities during their airport experience. The flexibility of purchasing access for a set duration could also resonate with travelers who only require a limited amount of time to relax before or after their flight. This could be of great interest for many of the passengers transiting through Heathrow Terminal 2. While not necessarily an extraordinary luxury experience, it provides a noticeable level of quality in what is often a rather uninspired realm of air travel.
What else is in this post?
- 7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Plaza Premium Lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 2
- 7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - The Centurion Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport
- 7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Turkish Airlines Lounge at Washington Dulles
- 7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Star Alliance Lounge at Los Angeles International
- 7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Air France Lounge at New York JFK
- 7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Aspire Lounge at Amsterdam Schiphol
- 7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Qantas Business Lounge at Perth International
7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - The Centurion Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport
The Centurion Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport, nestled within Terminal 1 near Gate 60, is a haven for American Express cardholders seeking a more comfortable airport experience. Open daily from 7 am to midnight, it caters to Centurion and Platinum card members, along with up to two guests per cardholder. The lounge boasts amenities like meeting rooms for those needing a quiet space to work or connect, and shower facilities for travelers wanting to freshen up. While it provides a decent space to relax before a flight, some visitors have noted that it feels a bit small compared to other lounges at the airport. The shower facilities, while clean, have also been criticized as being on the smaller side. Despite these shortcomings, it remains a convenient option for those looking to escape the airport's chaos, especially those associated with American Express’s premium travel benefits.
The Centurion Lounge is part of American Express's broader Global Lounge Collection, which includes a large network of lounges across the globe. This access grants eligible cardholders the opportunity to use a variety of lounge facilities beyond the 30 Centurion Lounges. However, it’s worth mentioning that access to Centurion Lounges through purchased day passes was recently discontinued. This change might affect those who were accustomed to simply paying for access, but it maintains the value proposition for those within the American Express network. The lounge is a decent option if you have a longer layover or are seeking a moment of tranquility before embarking on your flight, but don’t necessarily expect an expansive or mind-blowing experience.
The Centurion Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport, situated in Terminal 1 near Gate 60, operates daily from 7 am to 12 am. It's primarily accessible to American Express Centurion and Platinum cardholders, along with two guests. This means that, at least on the surface, access is quite restricted, though some travelers might gain access through partner airline programs.
The lounge itself has a rather compact layout, which has led some travelers to describe it as "small" or even "tiny" in comparison to other airport lounges. While there are two meeting rooms and a phone room, including one meeting room with a flatscreen TV for up to 10 people, the overall space might feel a bit cramped at times, especially when the lounge is busy.
The shower facilities are another point of discussion. While clean, they are reported to be on the smaller side, something that might not appeal to everyone seeking a more luxurious experience before a long flight. It's interesting to note that the lounge has seen a recent shift in access policies. As of January 13, 2025, it will no longer be possible to buy access through services like LoungeBuddy. This limits access further, as it makes the Amex card-based system the only gateway.
Despite these limitations, the lounge is designed to be a relaxing haven before your flight. Some travelers find it a suitable place to unwind, others might feel a bit disappointed. It's a decent option if you have Amex Centurion or Platinum card access, and its location near Gate 60 in Terminal 1 makes it relatively convenient to access if you are flying out of that terminal. However, it is definitely worth comparing the size and amenities to other lounges within Hong Kong International Airport, such as the United Club Lounge located in the northwest concourse of Terminal 1, to see if they might fit your travel style and needs better. You might also consider the broader American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes over 1400 lounges across the globe, including 30 Centurion Lounges. This network offers greater flexibility for Amex cardholders, potentially providing a more interesting choice overall than the HKG location specifically.
7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Turkish Airlines Lounge at Washington Dulles
Tucked away in Concourse B near gate B43 at Washington Dulles International Airport, the Turkish Airlines Lounge presents a tranquil escape from the airport's usual chaos. It's a haven for Star Alliance Gold members and passengers flying internationally with Turkish Airlines, offering a welcome respite from the busy terminal. Open daily from 6 am to 11 pm, it has long been praised for its quality, specifically its food and beverage selection—in fact, it received a "best quality of refreshments" award from Priority Pass, highlighting its commitment to offering a satisfying experience. This focus on service has made it a well-regarded lounge among travelers. Access for kids under six is complimentary.
While it has always been known as a well-appointed lounge catering to various traveler needs, some recent feedback suggests a possible decline in the quality of food and beverage offerings, which is something to keep in mind. The overall ambience, however, remains sophisticated and inviting, with its elegant design fostering a sense of peace and refinement. So if you're looking for a calmer place to unwind or to refresh yourself with some decent amenities before a long flight, the Turkish Airlines lounge at Dulles could be a good choice. It's worth noting that you can no longer purchase lounge passes through third-party platforms beginning in January 2025, though.
The Turkish Airlines Lounge at Washington Dulles, situated in Concourse B near gate B43, operates daily from 6 am to 11 pm. It's primarily accessible to Star Alliance Gold members and those traveling internationally on Turkish Airlines. This lounge, a member of the Priority Pass network, has a reputation for providing a high-quality experience. It's been recognized, notably, for the quality of its food and beverage offerings, winning an award from Priority Pass in this category.
However, some recent changes to its food and drink selection have been observed by travelers. The reasons for this are not publicly discussed. Interestingly, starting on January 13, 2025, you won't be able to use LoungeBuddy to access or purchase passes for this location. This appears to be a conscious move away from some traditional third-party access models.
The lounge itself is known for creating an elegant and refined atmosphere, offering a welcome escape from the busy airport terminal. This approach to design aims at a specific customer segment that values a more sophisticated airport experience. It's evident that the layout and design contribute significantly to a tranquil setting, seemingly designed to reduce noise and create a relaxing environment. It's a testament to the design's efficacy that many find it a welcome respite.
Children under 6 are admitted for free, indicating a strategy to cater for families, which might make this lounge more appealing to a wider range of travelers. Beyond this, it's a lounge that's seen as providing a high-level experience. One could argue that its long-standing favorable reputation amongst travelers is evidence of its successful execution of its mission and its ability to serve the needs of a distinct traveler segment. If you are a frequent traveler within the Star Alliance or with Turkish Airlines, it might be worthwhile keeping this lounge in mind when planning your next journey.
7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Star Alliance Lounge at Los Angeles International
The Star Alliance Lounge at Los Angeles International Airport, located within the Tom Bradley International Terminal, offers a modern and spacious environment for travelers. It's designed with distinct zones for relaxation, dining, and work, catering to a wide range of traveler needs. A notable feature is its outdoor patio, which provides a welcome break from the airport's usual indoor spaces.
This lounge boasts amenities such as a cinema room, shower facilities, and a buffet featuring a variety of food and drinks. These comforts contribute to a high level of traveler satisfaction, making it a sought-after space for pre-flight relaxation. While it carries a sense of luxury and sophistication with its unique design elements, it's worth noting that its position amongst the very best business class lounges worldwide can be debated. This aspect makes the Star Alliance Lounge at LAX an intriguing option for those looking for a premium airport experience, particularly if they value both luxury and overall value for money.
The Star Alliance Lounge at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), situated in the Tom Bradley International Terminal, is a rather interesting example of an airport lounge. It's designed with a spacious and modern aesthetic, divided into distinct areas for relaxing, eating, and working. One of its most noticeable features is the outdoor patio, a welcome addition for travelers looking for a bit of fresh air.
The lounge offers a variety of amenities including a small movie theater, showers, and a buffet with a good selection of food and drink. The overall design attempts a contemporary feel and, to acknowledge the effort, Skytrax awarded it a 4-star rating based on its facilities and staff. It's open daily from 7:30 AM to 12:00 AM.
It's worth noting that the lounge is one of only six in the world operated exclusively by the Star Alliance, suggesting a higher level of luxury and perhaps a slightly more elaborate design philosophy. This unique aspect is supposed to set it apart from more traditional airport lounges. The seating itself offers a mix of comfy couches and more formal chairs.
While it is recognized as a strong contender among airport lounges, it's important to note that opinions on how well it ranks among the very top business class lounges are mixed. Its appeal may stem from the amenities offered and its access policies, which serve Star Alliance Gold members and those traveling in premium cabins. While I think it's a good option for a lot of travellers, others might find it to be fairly average in its offering. It would be interesting to see if and how the lounge adapts to the changing needs of frequent flyers in the future. Overall, the lounge is a valuable addition to the LAX experience for certain travellers, providing a good balance between comfortable facilities and a more premium experience in an airport often known for heavy congestion.
7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Air France Lounge at New York JFK
Nestled within Terminal 1 at New York's JFK airport, the Air France Lounge offers a sophisticated retreat for travelers. It underwent a complete renovation in 2018, aiming for a Parisian brasserie ambiance. The two-level space provides a mix of seating areas with views of the tarmac, perfect for those wanting to relax and soak up the airport atmosphere. You'll find the usual amenities such as free Wi-Fi and showers to refresh before a flight.
Food and beverage options are a highlight, emphasizing a French culinary experience that elevates the typical airport lounge offering. What sets this lounge apart are the complimentary Clarins spa services available to travelers—a welcome treat in the hectic world of airport travel.
Access is generally reserved for Air France Business and First Class passengers, but it's also accessible to Priority Pass members for a short window of time each day at a specific price. It's worth mentioning that a one-day pass can also be obtained for a cash fee or miles if flying on the airline or select partners. The flexible pricing, together with the wide range of services and amenities makes this an exceptionally good option, especially given that some travellers consider it to be one of the best in the United States. The Air France Lounge's focus on design and a curated experience offers travelers a truly unique airport experience—a comfortable and convenient departure from the expected, making it a smart choice for travelers looking for more than just a place to wait.
The Air France Lounge at New York's JFK airport, nestled within Terminal 1 post-security near Gate 1, offers a compelling blend of French-inspired design and amenities. Spread across two levels, it's a striking space with floor-to-ceiling windows providing views of the tarmac. It boasts a variety of seating configurations, ranging from communal areas to private workspaces, catering to different traveler preferences. The entire lounge was meticulously refurbished in late 2018, aiming to evoke the ambiance of a chic Parisian brasserie. This attention to detail is noticeable in its art installations and the overall aesthetic.
Operational daily from 6 AM to 2 AM, access is primarily reserved for Air France business and first-class passengers during the entire opening period. However, Priority Pass members have more limited access, restricted to a few hours in the morning and late evening. This access policy suggests a deliberate strategy to balance exclusivity with a wider reach. The culinary focus leans heavily towards French cuisine with a range of hot and cold dishes. You'll find French wines, over 30 varieties, which are thoughtfully curated by sommeliers, making it a rather unique amenity in an airport environment.
The lounge distinguishes itself with a selection of spa treatments, including Clarins facial services, making it a bit of an unusual proposition for an airport lounge. It's evident that a degree of attention is paid to passenger wellness and comfort. The lounge's design leans toward a higher level of elegance compared to many lounges. While it's primarily targeted towards higher-paying customers, its association with Priority Pass broadens the accessibility somewhat. There's also the option of purchasing a one-day pass for $50 or using 6,000 miles accumulated through the Air France, KLM, or Delta Air Lines programs. This makes the lounge an intriguing option for those looking for an above-average experience without necessarily having to fly in premium cabins.
It is remarkable how the lounge, located in one of the busiest airport hubs, manages to create a sense of refinement through its design and the careful curation of its culinary and amenity offerings. It's this attention to detail that has arguably helped it to build a strong reputation as one of the better outstation lounges in the United States. While the lounge may not be revolutionary, it is an excellent illustration of a lounge that seeks to create a distinct identity within the rather standard landscape of airport lounges, albeit targeted at a very specific market segment. It's a compelling case study of how to effectively utilize a limited space and elevate the passenger experience beyond just the usual airport lounge amenities.
7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Aspire Lounge at Amsterdam Schiphol
The Aspire Lounge at Amsterdam Schiphol, situated on the third floor and reachable via directions to Aspire Lounge 26, is open daily from 6 AM to 11:30 PM. It has recently undergone renovations, including a new section specifically for oneworld alliance airlines, which adds a certain appeal to frequent travelers on those airlines. While offering panoramic views of the runways, which many find a plus, the lounge faces occasional overcrowding during peak travel hours. Some travelers have also expressed disappointment about the food offerings, which don't seem to be a strong selling point. While the lounge offers decent facilities and comfortable seating, the overall experience is somewhat mixed based on online user feedback. Comfort levels, cleanliness, and facilities are seen as relatively strong, but aspects like service and value are rated lower. A Priority Pass grants access, although it's wise to be aware of potential capacity issues, especially during busier times. It's a decent lounge, but if you expect exceptional service or top-notch culinary experiences, it might not live up to those standards.
The Aspire Lounge at Amsterdam Schiphol, located on the third floor and easily accessible via directions to Aspire Lounge 26, presents a mixed bag of features for travelers. Operating from 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM daily, it caters to a broad range of passengers, including those not flying with oneworld airlines, thanks to its acceptance of Priority Pass.
While the lounge has seen recent improvements, including a dedicated oneworld section, its capacity might be a constraint during peak periods, resulting in crowded conditions. The food offering, although diverse, has drawn mixed opinions from visitors, with some characterizing it as average for a quick snack.
However, the lounge shines in other areas. It's a mid-sized space with a decent selection of amenities, and many appreciate the panoramic runway views. User reviews are split, with ratings indicating a high degree of cleanliness and facilities (around 80%), a slightly lower level of comfort (75%), but a less impressive service and value proposition (both 60%).
British Airways passengers frequently use the Aspire Lounge as part of their access benefits, which might contribute to the occasional overcrowding. Interestingly, staff performance has been reported to fluctuate depending on the time of day, with some travelers reporting sub-par interactions during busy periods.
Ultimately, the Aspire Lounge at Amsterdam Schiphol appears to be a suitable choice for those looking for a reasonably-priced way to escape the hustle of the main terminal. Whether it lives up to the high standards of other lounges in the airport or worldwide, however, is debatable. The decision to use it will likely depend on a traveler's priorities. It is important to weigh the average user feedback against personal needs and expectations. It might be best suited for travelers who don't require the top-notch facilities and services provided at more exclusive lounges.
7 Underrated Airport Lounges That Offer Exceptional Value for Travelers - Qantas Business Lounge at Perth International
The Qantas Business Lounge at Perth Airport, situated within Terminal 3, presents a unique airport lounge experience that blends comfort and unusual amenities. Built in 2018 and designed to handle up to 350 people, this lounge caters primarily to Business Class passengers of Qantas, as well as high-tier Qantas and Emirates frequent flyers and members of the Oneworld alliance. Setting it apart from many standard airport lounges, the space includes a wellness center and an outdoor area, offering a change of scenery before embarking on long-distance flights, notably the 17-hour route to London.
Designed by local architects Woods Bagot, the lounge is created to create a peaceful and high-quality setting, complemented by its food and drinks offerings. While the lounge presents a strong offering for those who qualify, its limited access could mean that a lot of travellers will miss out. This can make it less appealing to people seeking wider accessibility. The Qantas lounge represents a noteworthy experience for those who have access, delivering a greater degree of comfort and serenity before a flight.
The Qantas Business Lounge at Perth International Airport, located in Terminal 3, is a noteworthy airport lounge due to its unique features and strategic location. It's situated in Terminal 3, Level 1, and operates according to flight schedules. One interesting aspect is the presence of a wellness studio, light therapy options, and even an outdoor patio, creating a departure from typical airport lounges. Access is not for everyone. The lounge caters to a specific clientele: Business Class passengers, Qantas and Emirates Platinum members, and Oneworld Emerald members. It can accommodate up to 350 people, offering plenty of seating.
Interestingly, the Qantas International Lounge was once called the Transit Lounge before its 2018 renovation, and it's specifically designed for long-haul flights. In fact, the 17-hour London route likely served as a key design element. Australian architects, Woods Bagot, designed the lounge. Their goal was to cultivate a relaxed environment with high-quality food and premium beverages. In a similar fashion, Qantas launched the Domestic Business Lounge in 2015. It was built to mimic the airline's international lounges, maintaining a consistent high standard across the airline's network.
The opening of the new international lounge coincided with the debut of the Boeing 787 nonstop routes from Perth to London, highlighting the importance of this long-haul route for Qantas and, by extension, this lounge. During my own observation, the lounge remained relatively calm in the evening. This was probably due to the lack of overlapping departure times, allowing for tranquil moments and easy photography.
It's interesting that while this Qantas Business Lounge is designed primarily for specific frequent fliers or business class customers, those wanting a similar experience but not part of that elite network can opt for the Aspire Lounge at Perth Terminal 1. There, a day pass is available starting at A$75 for adults. This provides a level of flexibility for those seeking lounge access who don't fall into the qualifying criteria for Qantas. The Aspire Lounge stands as an example of how an alternative airport lounge experience can be obtained for a fee. It is, however, not associated with Qantas or any of their partner airlines.