For most of us, the phrase “airport lounge” conjures images of dismally dreary domestic spaces with limited seating, bottom-shelf liquor, and as much ambiance as a hospital waiting room — and that’s a fair perception. At least within the U.S., domestic airline lounges aren’t usually anything special. Thankfully, United just announced it would be taking a step in the right direction by renovating lounges and replacing its infamous packaged carrots in favor of real food. But united has a long way to go if it wants to compete with the best airport lounges out there.
For domestic lounges, the American Express Centurion lounges are certainly a cut above, with plenty of seating, gourmet food and beverage options, and extra amenities like wine tasting and express spa services. These lounges are available at Dallas DFW, New York LGA, Las Vegas, and San Francisco airports, with additional locations coming over the next year.
Plush seating at the Las Vegas Amex Centurion lounge
The catch? In order to access these upper-crust lounges, you need to be an American Express cardholder:
- Those with the American Express Platinum Card and American Express Centurion Card receive complimentary access
- American Express Platinum Card and American Express Centurion Card members may bring their spouse and children under the age of 18, or two travel companions as guests
- If you have any other American Express Card, day passes can be purchased for $50
To get truly spectacular lounges, however, you need to look further afield. International lounges tend to be much, much, better. The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse in New York, for example, is one of my favorite lounges in the world, with a fun atmosphere and unbelievably good staff.
International airline lounges run the gamut from luxurious to ridiculous, with complimentary spa services, premium champagnes, and even car service directly to the plane.
The Emirates First Class lounge in Dubai comprises an entire terminal, with restaurants and duty free shops.
Even the typically-bland lounges belonging to US airlines can be better abroad, with enhanced food and drink offerings, so a credit card or elite status that provides lounge access will get you a bit more overseas. The access policies for international lounges vary based on airline, airport, and class of service, so it’s best to check in advance if you have lounge access on your international itinerary. An app like LoungeBuddy can be great for knowing which lounges you can access, and whether or not there will be a fee.
In general though, to access the very best lounges, you will need to be flying international first or business class. On the plus side, you can access the lounge even when redeeming miles!
Ben Schlappig is the founder and author of One Mile At A Time, and flies over 300,000 miles per year while living in hotels full-time. You can follow his travels on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.