When it comes to travel, having an opportunity to take advantage of the many perks and benefits that come with the luxury lounge experience makes any travel day that much better. LuxeGetaways has pulled together this collection of seven of our favorite International Airport Lounges that deliver on all levels.
Cathay Pacific | Hong Kong
There are First Class Lounges, and then there is Cathy Pacific’s, The Wing. Private cabanas act as hideaways for passengers with long layovers. Each unit boasts a large working space, daybed and tub with rain shower – the fluffy robes and towels are standard.
The Haven restaurant serves Eastern and Western à la carte menu options that rotate weekly; or for those in a rush, they also have a buffet option with traditional dim sum, sweet treats and a cheese course. Toast the whole experience at their premium champagne bar.
Hours: Daily from 5:30am, until last departure
Location: Level 7, Terminal 1 near gates 1 to 4
Lufthansa | Frankfurt
The Senator Lounges at Frankfurt’s International Airport are all exceptional. Although they tend to be quite busy, there is ample space to find peace and quiet. Hot and cold buffet items are fully stocked and local favorites like pretzels with mustard and sweet Gummy Bears add an authentic German flair. Classic stout beers and quality wines are served as well.
Friendly attendants keep tidy the private shower rooms and soft towels, powerful blow dryers and toiletries are practical amenities very much appreciated. Lockers are provided for travelers who have long layovers and want to store hand luggage while jaunting into the city for the day.
Hours: 5:00am – 10:00pm
Location: Multiple in each terminal
Emirates | Dubai
At Dubai International Airport, Emirates has seven lounges located in its flagship Terminal 3 – three for First Class, and three for Business Class customers, as well as a newly opened Emirates’ Lounge catering to all premium customers.
Business Class Lounges have gourmet amenities such as show kitchens, juice bars and barista-manned coffee bars. Health Spas with treatment rooms are located in Concourses A and B. The First Class Lounges have added bonuses; such as wine cellars offering tastings and an opportunity for passengers to purchase luxury wines in Concourses A and B. There is also a dedicated duty free area in Concourse A for First Class passengers in that lounge.
Hours: Daily
Location: Terminal 3, Three First Class Lounges and three Business Class Lounges in Concourses A, B and C
Air France | Paris
La Premiere Lounge at Charles de Gaulle is the best for spa treatments on the fly – literally. Guests even have the opportunity to relax in the Biologique Recherche Center for an unforgettable two-hour personalized spa experience.
The typical lounge food and wine experience is taken to a new level with an elegant fine dining table service. Celebrated French chef Alain Ducasse chooses the wines and menu items, ensuring the meal remains so very French (and delicious).
Hours: Daily
Location: Terminal 2E, opposite Gate 14
Etihad | Abu Dhabi
Stepping up the game in airport lounges, Etihad Airways’ flagship First Class Lounge and Spa in Abu Dhabi is definitely in the running for world’s most pampering hub. Lounges are run like mini-hotels with a General Manager at the helm. Concierge services are offered, as well as Maître d’Hotel personnel, Savoy-trained butlers, world-class chefs and mixologists to round out the team.
Divide and conquer seems to be the game plan. Separate zones (16 in all) cater to individual travelers’ needs. Six Senses Spa occupies one zone with relaxing massage and beauty treatment rooms. An International á la carte restaurant, fitness room, nail salon, and cigar bar are among the other areas dedicated to luxury hospitality. Even children are pampered with a dedicated state-of-art playroom.
Hours: Daily
Location: Terminal 3, close to Gate 35
United | Chicago O’Hare
Last December, United opened its first exclusive lounge at Chicago O’Hare for United Polaris First and Business class customers traveling through Chicago on an international flight. Spa-like shower facilities have been added as well as daybed nooks with noise-cancelling sounds and soft lighting to set the mood for a restful nap.
For a more relaxed meal option, there is a seated meal service; or for busy travelers, there is a generous hot and cold buffet. United is relying more upon specially curated wines, premium spirits, craft beer selections and handcrafted cocktails by mixologist Adam Seger to attract more upscale flyers.
Hours: 7:15am – 9:00pm
Location: Gate C18
Delta | Atlanta, Georgia
The Atlanta Delta Sky Club Lounge nicknamed the “ATL B Club” is putting its roots at the culinary forefront. Chef Linton Hopkins is cooking up locally inspired southern soul food dishes and serving them exclusively at the Atlanta lounge. Not to worry, international classic items are also on hand.
Wine Ambassadors have been hired to assist lounge guests choose from the specially selected wines that Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson has chosen for the Sky Club Bar. Nearly every seat in the house has a power outlet next to it and the WiFi is reliable and fast. Quiet areas are truly silent spaces to catch up on a bit of work in peace.
Hours: 6am – 10pm
Location: Concourse E across from Gate E15