everything you need to know: airport lounges!

11/1/2019

Basic Benefits of an Airport Lounge:
Airport lounges are a fantastic way to escape the hustle and chaos in most major airports. But even more impressive is how much money you can save on food and drinks by utilizing the lounge instead of purchasing food in the terminal. The better lounges also have showers, children’s play areas, and computers, while the top notch ones will even have their own spa and salon services. This past year I was able to save at least $500 by visiting over 20 lounges. At the airport, most people spend between $15-25 on a meal. If you multiply that by 2 (if you are traveling with a companion) and add free alcohol, then a trip to the lounge can easily save you $30 for each visit. However, keep in mind that all lounges are not created equal. I have visited lounges in very small airports (like Zanzibar) that have very limited food selection and basic drinks. Mostly, they offer a quieter place to relax, with nice chairs, wifi, and air conditioning. (all important things in Africa). Other luxurious lounges (like the Centurion Lounges) offer restaurant quality menus with top-shelf alcohol, free 15 minute massages, and amazing views of the airport.

How to Access the Lounge:
There are three main ways to gain access to a lounge:

Buy a membership to that particular brand of lounge. (i.e. Delta SkyClub, United Club, Admirals Lounge, Priority Pass, etc. Usually around $500/year)
Hold a credit card that includes admission into the lounge. For a list of credit cards that give you the best lounge access, check out this article.
Buy a one-time pass to obtain access to a lounge. (usually $25-75 through LoungeBuddy or at the lounge itself)

Tips About Lounge Access:

Sometimes airports have multiple lounges to choose from! Make sure you check out the amenities of each to see which is the right fit for what you want. (food quality, working area, kids play area, etc)
Know your membership and how many guests you are allowed to bring in for no charge.
Many lounges allow you to enter even after landing! Grab another free meal or drink before heading to your destination.
Reserve the shower or a spa treatment as soon as you enter as there is often long waiting times for these amenities.
Access hours vary by lounge (sometimes they limit guests during peak periods), so make sure you check when the lounge is open and accessible to you.

Which Credit Card Gives Me to Access to the Most Lounges:
For most people, the AMEX Platinum Personal or Business Card will give them access to the most lounges (over 1,200) including:
All Priority Pass Lounges
Delta Sky Club (without a guest) when traveling on Delta Airlines
Centurion Lounges
Select Lufthansa Lounges in Germany
AirSpace Lounges
Plaza Premium Lounges
Escape Lounges
AMEX International Lounges
The card comes with an annual fee of $550--$595 but also includes many more benefits! Contact me if you have any questions about signing up for this amazing card!

My Top 5 Favorite Lounges: (from the one's I've visited)
5. GVK Business/First Class Lounge, Mumbai
     Free 15 min. foot massages and a huge buffet
4. SALA VIP International, Quito
     Great food, spacious, and beautiful outdoor space
3. Centurion Lounges, Dallas-Fort Worth
     Amazing food, free 15 min. back massage, and top shelf alcohol
2. Turkish Airlines Business Class Lounge, (old) Istanbul Airport
     They had 100 fresh roses in the bathroom and a fresh ravioli station
1. The Pier, First Class Lounge, Hong Kong
     Best decor and atmosphere

Honorable Mentions:
Delta Sky Club in Seattle, Oman Air Lounge in Bangkok, and American Flagship Lounge in Chicago