Elevated Travel Experience
I am a big fan of airport lounges for several reasons, especially when considering the benefits of airport lounges. They provide an elevated travel experience, offering a special place in the airport that most cannot access. This not only allows for added privacy and space but also provides a more exclusive experience. In some cases of extremely crowded airports, lounges are the only way to find a seat. Additionally, lounges offer valuable workspace, and there are many times when I have strategically planned to work or take calls and meetings from a lounge.
Food and Drink
Lounges provide free food, drinks, and alcohol which allows you to refuel before your flight at no cost. While the variety for food and drink varies greatly from lounge to lounge, you can find everything from chips and nuts, all the way up to five-star multi-course meals served by a waiter. Most lounges fall somewhere in the middle, but even when the selection is sparse, they often provide an outlet for tasting local dishes and drinks. Often, especially when I do not have much time in a country, I am able to try local dishes and delicacies, or even a local beer that I did not get a chance to experience in town.
Refreshment Before or After a Long Flight
The third aspect of lounges that I find valuable is refreshment before or after a long flight. That typically comes in the form of a shower or a place to rest or sometimes even a massage, which can really come in handy depending on your situation.
The Gamification Aspect
Lastly, there’s the gamification aspect. Currently, I have access to Priority Pass lounges/restaurants, Amex Centurion lounges, Delta lounges, Capital One lounges, and a few other random lounges, all through my various credit cards. Credit cards provide many VIP perks and privileges and lounges are one that I find a great deal of value in.
Pro Tip
PRO-TIP – Always check the Priority Pass and/or Amex app prior to your trip to check lounge availability, locations, hours, and amenities to plan accordingly. With Centurion and Capital One lounges, you can also check in online. The Amex Platinum card is the single best credit card for the most lounge access, but there are many others that provide specific value.
