Experts in global business travel, the team at Goldman Travel Corporation has compiled its own list of the ‘World’s Top 5 Luxurious Airport Lounges’ where the perks for First and Business Class travellers go way beyond champagne and fine dining. Raising the bar to dizzying new heights with offerings ranging from private butlers and golf simulators, to marble-lined shower suites and world-class mixologists, this is an entirely new level of lounging…
HONG KONG, International Airport (HKG) – Cathay Airlines’ Pier Business Class Lounge
Voted the ‘World’s Best First Class Airline lounge’ in a 2016 global passenger survey, Cathay Airlines’ Pier Business Class Lounge in Hong Kong is easily one of the most luxurious airport lounges anywhere. Entry is via the purpose-built Tea House, a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the terminal outside. The lounge boasts a dedicated wellness zone equipped with a diverse tea selection and tea specialists on hand to answer all your leafy questions. To unwind pre or post-flight, visit the Relaxation Room, where you’ll enjoy 14 shower suites and a bank of upholstered loungers and footstools where you can relax post-soak with a soothing drink in hand.
DUBAI, International Airport (DXB) – Emirates Lounge
Share a slice of the Sheikh life in one of six deluxe lounges – three each for First and Business Class passengers. In the opulent First Class Lounge, enjoy Italian marble floors and luxe leather couches, gold-plated Swiss wall clocks, designer showers and bathroom suites together with a wine cellar where you can taste and purchase premium wines from the world’s leading vineyards.
PARIS, Charles de Gaulle International Airport (CDG) – La Premiere Lounge
With its own special entry greeting lobby for La Première passengers, enjoy a carefree visit as your bags are whisked away and you’re personally escorted through priority security screening. Sample menus created by renowned Michelin-star chef Alain Ducasse in the lounge restaurant, and for First-Class passengers, a 30-minute massage or facial in the Biologique Recherche Spa is complimentary. Once boarding time approaches, a dedicated chauffeur-driven Air France vehicle will transport you directly to the plane.
LONDON, Heathrow International Airport (LHR) – British Airways Concorde Room
With sites on both sides of the Atlantic – at New York’s JFK and in London’s Heathrow, British Airways’ top-tier lounge -, the Concorde Room, epitomises luxury. Heathrow’s Terminal 5 lounge is BA’s flagship, and it’s easy to see why. Reminiscent of a deluxe boutique hotel experience with plush furniture, open fireplaces, a rich jewel-toned colour scheme, cut-crystal chandeliers and incredible art adoring the walls, the lounge is home to an intimate dining room with private booths dishing up full-service pre-flight meals, as well as private cabanas with day beds for those keen to take a nap in style. If business is pressing, there’s a state-of-the-art business suite to help you stay connected – although we’d highly recommend taking drinks on the terrace!
FRANKFURT Airport (FRA) – Lufthansa First Class Terminal
The German carrier’s showpiece First Class lounge is a terminal unto itself, separated from the main airport with its own check-in and security screening. Upon arrival, just hand over your passport and boarding pass, go through security and enjoy delights such as whisky tastings and Lufthansa’s famous rubber duckies. Some of the seating areas boast superb views over the action on the tarmac, while the dining room serves up a la carte meals. The well-stocked bar is home to top-shelf spirits, a huge collection of bottled waters and there’s a cigar lounge nearby. When it’s time to move on, a personal attendant will usher you into a waiting Porsche or Mercedes to drive you directly to the plane.
