If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll know how valuable an airport lounge can be. With an array of high-end features, many of the top lounges feel more like a five-star spa or restaurant than an airport. Whether you’re rushing to meet deadlines or simply want to get some rest before another long-haul flight, airport lounges can provide everything you need to make travel a bit easier -- and more comfortable.
Below are eight amazing airport lounges that all business travellers will appreciate. These lounges take the perks to another level, from locally inspired food and custom-crafted drinks, to spa amenities such as showers, bathtubs, and even free facials. Note - access varies, so check the websites or call ahead for the latest access policies.
Air France Business-Class Lounge, Charles De Gaulle International Airport
Located in Terminal 2E, this swanky 34,000-square-foot lounge offers endless amenities for flyers passing through Paris. Taking centre stage here is Le Balcon, a huge bar area with blue velvet banquettes and a marble bar, serving speciality cocktails that rotate monthly. Visitors can also take advantage of the kids’ play area, a spacious wellness spa complete with private showers and saunas, a “detox bar,” and complimentary facials.
Qantas First Lounge, Sydney International Airport
This spacious lounge in Sydney's international terminal offers plenty of seating areas, delicious dining options, a full-service spa, and private work stations. You can choose to sit down and order from a menu, or grab and go some food from a buffet (although with the sweeping views, we think you'll want to stay). With its marble touches, oak wood dividers, wide tarmac views, and ample natural light, this Qantas lounge is modern and airy. If you're craving total relaxation, head to the Aurora Spa, where dim lighting and plants create an atmosphere that feels far away from an international airport terminal.
The Centurion Lounge by American Express, San Francisco International Airport
American Express Cardmembers who hold a global Platinum Card and Centurion members can access this day-of-departure lounge at SFO for a taste of California wine country, as well as facilities such as shower suites and workspaces with high-speed WiFi. Kick back with a cocktail from a top mixologist, explore a wine list with selections from Napa Valley, and fill up on locally inspired dishes.
Not flying through SFO? Find Centurion lounges in Hong Kong and other cities around the U.S. including Houston, Las Vegas, New York (LGA), Miami. And with the latest Centurion Lounge coming to Heathrow in November, you’ll soon be able to experience ultimate convenience when flying from London.
Delta Sky Club, John F. Kennedy International Airport
Opened in 2013, this club offers all of the requisite comforts of a great lounge -- including high-speed internet, showers, a bar, and buffet. The defining detail that sets it apart is the Sky Deck at Delta Sky Club, which offers comfortable seating with great views of the runways as well as table service.
Cathay Pacific's The Pier, First Class Lounge, Hong Kong International Airport
In terminal 1, The Pier makes up one of seven lounges the airline offers in the Hong Kong International Airport. Yet as the first-class lounge, it offers thoughtful details to make each visit memorable and relaxing. The entire lounge is designed to soothe mind and body, with signature fragrances, ambient lighting, and a quiet environment throughout. Passengers can take advantage of custom services at the in-house spa, or indulge in the Asian-influenced cuisine in The Dining Room. If you need to catch up on sleep, book one of eight "Day Suites", which feature a daybed, reading light, and privacy curtains. If work deadlines are pressing, head to one of the work suites, all of which are outfitted with iMac computers and high-speed internet for ease and productivity.
Lufthansa First-Class Terminal, Frankfurt International Airport
Going above and beyond the traditional “lounge,” the Frankfurt airport offers an entire terminal dedicated to providing first-class passengers with an oasis of calm. With plenty of seating, nap rooms, bathrooms with tubs (and signature rubber ducks), a cigar bar, and several well-equipped workspaces, passengers can take care of whatever business they need before boarding their flights. When it’s time to fly, a driver will take you directly to the plane in a private vehicle. You can also find Lufthansa first-class lounges in Munich, Zurich, Geneva, and Vienna airports.
Oneworld Lounge, Los Angeles International Airport
Sitting on Level 5 of the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX, this spacious lounge serves passengers travelling on Oneworld airlines, including Qantas, Cathay Pacific, and British Airways, among others. The contemporary design takes inspiration from a cool and breezy California style, and a communal “fireplace” sits at the centre of the lounge. Choose from changing menus with a variety of cultural influences including Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and Korean. Taking a page from California culture, they’ll even serve street food from pop-up food carts. Visitors will also find plenty of work stations, spa amenities, and shower suites.
Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, London Heathrow Airport
Virgin’s flagship lounge in Heathrow’s Terminal 3 is a modern, stylish take on the typical airport lounge. With fabulous touches, including complimentary food and drinks (the cocktails were created by London’s renowned Dandelyan bar), showers, a library, game room, and wellness spa, you’ll feel like you’re in a five-star hotel, rather than the busiest airport in the U.K. Flying back into Heathrow? Stop by the Revivals Lounge to refresh and rejuvenate yourself after a long flight. If you opt for a car service, you’ll be escorted from your chauffeur-driven vehicle to the lounge within minutes.
- Rewards shown are examples that are subject to availability and may change. Examples valid as of June 2020. Membership Rewards points are earned on every full £1 spent and charged, per transaction. Terms and conditions apply. Enrolment is required.
- If you'd prefer a Card with no annual fee, rewards or other features, an alternative option is available – the Business Basic Card.
