Soon, Capital One got into the premium credit card lounge game. They opened their first lounge in Dallas (DFW) in 2021 and their second at Washington DC’s Dulles International Airport (IAD) in early 2023.

Capital One opened its third lounge at Denver International Airport (DEN) in November of 2023 and is Centurion’s top competitor.

Capital One Lounge

Concourse B Near Gate B34

I’ve just visited the new Capital One Lounge in April of 2024, and let me tell you – the word is out. This lounge is crowded, loud, and very difficult to find a place to sit. The lighting is bright, and it feels… not at all exclusive. 

Capital One Venture X, both business and personal versions, have unlimited access to the Capital One Lounges. If you have the Capital One Venture Rewards or Spark Business cards, you get two free visits per year.

This perk is going away as of January 2025 (after that, visits will cost these cardholders $45). 

With access, you can bring two guests free of charge, and beyond that, guests must pay $45. Anyone can purchase access for $65, and it is still probably cheaper than having a full meal with drinks at the airport.

At the top of the escalator, there was no line, and we were greeted by a very friendly agent who admitted us quickly. Behind the front desk, you’ll find grab-and-go snacks, and to the right of it a coffee station with hot and cold options.

When you enter the lounge and turn right, progressing clockwise, you first see the buffet and bar area to your left. The buffet has similar offerings to what we found in Dallas – small, locally sourced dishes in individual ramekin bowls or little pans. It is organized like a typical buffet, so you still deal with lines.

The lounge in Dallas, by contrast, has a central kiosk with separate stations for each dish – this really eliminated the serving line you often find at buffets. 

Small plates include Colorado bison sloppy joe sliders, broccolini with garlic, teriyaki stir fry, mac and cheese, and mac and cheese with bacon. There is a second buffet line with small individual salads, and tapas such as tomato confit crostini and buffalo deviled eggs.

At the end of the buffet, a drink station offers regular water, regular soda, craft soda, tea, fruit-infused iced water, and coffee.

The bar is massive and packed with people. They offer a variety of beer, wine, and craft cocktails. Drink offerings vary from lounge to lounge and have local flavor. This lounge’s choices include local microbrews, the tequila-based cocktail cleverly called the Juan Denver, and Colorado Cool-Aid. 

Continuing toward the back of the lounge, the six restrooms and two shower suites (all ADA compliant) are down a hallway to your left. There is something called a Parents’ room as well, which I’m guessing you will need to reserve up front. 

The restrooms are individual unisex rooms with toilets and sinks, which have spa music piped in. They are quite nice, and seem to be kept very clean. 

Past the hallway with the restrooms, you’ll find a dessert bar with cookies and brownies. The back area is very open, with bar tops on each side and lounge type seating with tables in the center.

A few comfy two-top tables line the windows, where you can watch people scurrying about on the concourse to your heart’s content. Opposite the dessert bar, you’ll find a tea station. 

Walking back toward the entryway, there are some more private seating pods and grouped chairs. There are work rooms and relaxation rooms that you can reserve at the front desks.

I could hear serene music coming from the relaxation rooms, and I swear I could smell the lavender. Unfortunately, I was not able to experience the relaxation rooms this time. 

Monitors scattered around the lounge keep you updated on your flight status. 

The staff at this lounge was the best part – very kind and helpful. They tried to help us find a place to sit, and finally found two barstools in the very back by the kitchen, and that is where I sit as I write this review. First impressions of this ‘new’ lounge – I am not overly impressed. 

I am comparing this lounge to the Capital One Lounge in Dallas (DFW), and it misses the mark. It seems like an older lounge that has been remodeled. The decor is somewhat chic and modern, but the lighting is too bright.

I love the fact that they have art by local artists and use locally sourced ingredients to craft locally inspired dishes and drinks, but I don’t love the arrangement of the lounge. I think they could have partitioned areas better and created spaces to minimize the crowded feel. 

But it is better than sitting at the gate! 

We had a little extra time, so we hoofed it on over to the Centurion Lounge on Concourse C. 

American Express Centurion Lounge

Concourse C Near Gate C46

To access the Amex Lounge, you will need to either have the American Express Platinum Card (business or personal), the exclusive, invite-only Centurion Card, or the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card (which gives access if you are flying Delta).

Authorized users on your platinum card also have access, each of whom are now charged a $175 annual fee (you used to be able to have up to 3 authorized users for one $175 fee).

Guests must pay $50 unless you hit the $75K annual spend, in which case you can bring two guests free of charge. 

We just beat a mad rush and walked right in, but we have waited up to an hour to get into this lounge in the past.

If you take the escalator up, the entry desks are directly in front of you. It is quite a grand entryway, complete with the vertical greening typical of Centurion Lounges.

After gaining access with your ID and boarding pass (and card, if you don’t have a QR code), take a right.

It is even more crowded than the Capital One Lounge, and is configured pretty much the same way – U-shaped and open in the center, with views down to the concourse. It is larger and better laid-out than Capital One.

You walk down a long corridor with seating to your right lining the windows, overlooking the concourse. To your left, there are several open areas with a variety of seating options – personal pods, dining tables, and co-working tables. 

One bar is just off of the first room, and serves a variety of wines, beers, and craft cocktails. This is a good place to grab some snacks – brownies, pretzels, etc. – for the flight.

There used to be a pool table and a few other table games in this area, but they have been removed in favor of additional dining tables. There’s a drink stand in the first seating area providing coffee, tea, and water. 

Continuing to the back of the lounge, you’ll find binary gendered restrooms and two shower suites, complete with L’Occitane toiletries. You can reserve your shower suite at the front desk. 

At the bottom of the U is a second bar, and more seats lining the windows. To the left of the bar are additional dining tables and a bar top overlooking the concourse. Heading back toward the entryway, you’ll find the buffet, additional seating, and another drink station. 

While this is not the nicest Centurion Lounge in the network, it is a known quantity and a solid choice. You can expect good food with a decent amount of protein, high-quality ingredients, and excellent drink selections with top-shelf choices.

If you can get in and find a place to sit, despite being busy the lounge does not feel as crowded, loud, and bright as the Capital One Lounge.

On our visit, the buffet included grilled rosemary chicken which was moist and flavorful, rice, roasted brussel sprouts, and a decent salad bar. There was a nice selection of desserts, but the best part was the made-to-order pasta station. 

Verdict

These lounges are both solid choices for a decent meal and drinks. During my visits, both were crowded, but so was every square inch of Denver Airport.

The Centurion wins in a head-to-head battle, mainly due to the space. It is larger, at 14,000 square feet, compared to the Capital One Lounge at 10,800 square feet.

I think the Centurion Lounge has a better layout, with multiple partitioned areas, so that it feels less crowded. But I can understand why the Capital One Lounge is so open, being two-thirds the size.

Moreover, the food choices at the Centurion Lounge are slightly superior, in my opinion. Both lounges boast stylish decor and have nice amenities, like shower suites and private work rooms. If you have time and access, check them both out and see what you think!

The exception is if you have Oneworld status or are flying in a premium cabin on American or its Oneworld partners. You can pay for Admirals Club access, but if you have other options, I’d choose another lounge. 

(Read with a serious Texas drawl…)

DFW ain’t half bad for killin’ some time. Y’oughta snag a longer layover so ya don’t go rarin’ around like a spooked steer.

I ain’t interested in sweatin’ over a measly fifteen-minute delay, yellin’ “Git outta my way, ya varmints!” at folks as I run through the terminal. Much better to mosey on down, take a slow stroll, watch the herd movin’ about, and soak up the scenery ‘fore hittin’ that fancy waitin’ room they call a lounge.

Read on to find out which lounges are the best and which one is right for you, pardner! 

Minute Suites

There are two Minute Suites locations at DFW – one in Terminal A near gate A39, and one in Terminal D near gate D23. The D terminal location has showers available, while the A terminal location does not.

Minute suites are not typical lounges. Instead, small rooms are provided for napping, watching TV, or a quiet workspace. Vending machine-type snacks are available for purchase.

Each suite consists of a daybed and a smart TV, where you can log into your own Netflix, Hulu, etc. and watch your favorite shows. You may have to ask for bedding at the front desk, if you plan to try and catch some zzzs. Each room has a thermostat and a noise masking system. 

Most locations only have one type of suite; however, Dallas offers a few larger options and adjoining rooms, which cannot be booked online. You have to actually place a phone call!

You can access Minute Suites in one of two ways.

You can pay what seems to me like a very high price for what you get – $55 for the first hour and $13.75 per 15 minutes after that. An 8-hour overnight stay is $175, and a shower will set you back an additional $20.

You can stop by and shower without renting a room for $30. These prices are per suite, not per person.

Priority Pass members get the first hour free and subsequent hours for $34. Interestingly, you can bring up to 3 guests with you… the rooms seem a bit small for four people, but this might work if you are traveling with kids or very close friends.

Of note, if your Priority Pass membership came with your Capital One Venture X or your Amex Platinum (personal or business), it does not include this benefit. 

There are a couple of nice perks they offer – nursing mothers can use a suite for 30 minutes for free. Military members and flight crew with valid IDs get a 20% discount. 

For me, Minute Suites do not make a lot of sense. The prices seem awfully high for what you get, and there are so many other options at DFW, I can’t see myself making use of this facility.

If I want to relax, I’ll use one of the other lounges. If I need to stay overnight at DFW, I’ll book the Grand Hyatt in Terminal D (this gorgeous hotel is adjacent to the airport and is super convenient!) and either earn or use valuable World of Hyatt points!

Gameway

Gameway is a unique concept in lounges. There are two locations at DFW, one by gate B42 and one near gate E16.

They consist of several gaming stations, each equipped with a PlayStation 4 Pro (loaded with games), a comfy chair, charging stations, and a place to store your luggage. 

The lounges are open from 6 am to 8 pm, and you can access two ways: 

1. Pay $15 for 30 minutes, $25 for an hour, and $45 for an unlimited amount of time. Military members get 10% off. 

2. Priority pass will get you an hour for free and 10% off each subsequent hour, but not if you got your membership through Amex Platinum or Capital One Venture X. PP also gets you a free snack and drink.

USO Lounge

DFW has a 6,000 square foot USO Lounge located near gate B47 that is open to active duty US military members and their dependents. Retirees can gain access as well, if space is available.

You must have your military ID card, and VA issued ID cards or driver’s licenses that indicate veteran status will not gain you entry. 

The lounge is comfortable and has cafe seating as well as poofy leather recliners for movie viewing. A children’s play area is provided, and board games are available to pass the time.

The selection of snacks varies, and it is pretty basic; but everything is donated, and military members greatly appreciate this. The lounge is also staffed by volunteers. 

Centurion Lounge

Amex opened its first Centurion Lounge in the Las Vegas airport back in 2013. DFW was the second airport to host this club, and it became so popular that they had to change locations to allow for a larger footprint. 

The new Centurion Lounge at DFW opened in 2019, and it is more spacious and has a more logical layout. You can check in ahead of time on the app to save a few seconds at the check-in desk, but you’ll still have to show your ID and boarding pass for a flight leaving that day.

If your flight originates in Dallas, you will only be admitted 3 hours in advance of that flight. For layovers, the 3-hour rule does not apply.

The lounge is open from 5:30 am to 10:00 pm. Continental breakfast is served from 5:30 am till 6:30 am and a full breakfast buffet from 6:00 till 11:00 am, when the buffet is switched over to lunch/dinner.

These dishes are available until 9:30 pm. Bar service is available from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Access

Amex Platinum Cardholders

Unless you spend $75,000 per year on your Platinum card, guests will cost you $50 each, with authorized users being an exception. At the time of writing, each authorized user has an annual fee of $175.

These are relatively new changes implemented to reduce overcrowding. We have still had to put our names on waiting lists several times, but it seems like the desk agents are admitting less people to keep the lounge less crowded.

Centurion Members

For those of you holding the invitation-only black Centurion card, all bets are off. You can bring guests, and you’ll have reserved seating.

Rumor has it that only big spenders are invited to apply, and they must pay a $10,000 initiation fee and a $5,000 annual fee. No thanks!

Delta SkyMiles Reserve Cardholders

You can access the lounge when flying the same day on Delta or Delta-operated flights. 

I love the DFW Centurion and am happy to book longer layovers, so I have time to dine here. When you check in, you continue into the oblong, L-shaped lounge. Turning right will take you to the spa and shower rooms, and to the left is everything else.

You’ll find a coffee station and a variety of seating areas in the corridor, eventually making your way to the dining room/bar area. 

Past that is another set of bathrooms, another coffee station, and more seating. The back of the lounge opens up and has loungers, cubbies, and a coworking table, along with telephone rooms and a children’s’ area.

The last few times I’ve visited, there have been long lines for the buffet and bar. The buffet usually consists of good food, typically with regional flavor and chef inspired.

You’ll typically find a salad, two or three protein choices, several sides, and two or three dessert options. We never leave hungry.

All beer, wine, and spirits are included, so no upcharges.

Capital One Lounge

Looking for the cool kids? You’ll find them here. I was super excited to find out that Capital One lounges were coming to our hub.

The first Capital One Lounge opened in Dallas in November of 2021. At the time, I only had the Capital One Venture card, which gets you 2 annual passes. After our first visit, we knew we had to upgrade to the Venture X. 

We debated for a while, since we already had access to the Centurion Lounge. Was the $395 annual fee worth it? 

A few factors went into our decision…

No Guests For Free With Amex

The first was that Amex took away the guest benefit for Centurion lounges (unless you spend $75K on the card per year, which I don’t). So, unless you’re traveling companion had their own card or was an authorized user on your card ($175 per user), they would be subject to a $50 fee.

Capital One Venture X Travel Credit

Capital One Venture X has a $300 travel credit which can be used when booking travel through their travel portal. I don’t usually recommend booking through a credit card travel portal, but for rental cars, I don’t see a problem.

So, I book my rental cars through their portal and, in addition to using travel credit for a discount, I get 10X points.

Capital One Miles

Capital One miles are pretty valuable and transfer to an ever-increasing number of partners.

Less Crowded Lounges

The lounges are less crowded than Centurion (at the time of writing). Over the past couple of years, Centurion Lounges have become more and more popular and more crowded.

I have had to wait to be granted entry several times, only to have to wander aimlessly through the lounge for several minutes to find seats. As I mentioned, Amex is implementing changes to reduce overcrowding, so this could change.

Great Atomosphere

Honestly, I love the vibe. The Capital One Lounge just feels hip and trendy, and tends to be populated with young professionals.

The food selections are interesting and tapas-sized. The decor is clean, modern, and sophisticated.

Access

For unlimited use of the Capital One Lounges (Now at DFW, Denver International Airport, and Dulles in Washington DC), you must have the Capital One Venture X Personal or Business card. You can bring up to 2 guests for free, and additional guests must pay $45.

Until January 1, 2025, the regular Venture card as well as the Spark Miles for Business card get you two visits. Any more visits than that will cost you $45, and after Jan. 1, 2025, any visit will cost you $45.

Anyone can pay $65 to access the lounge.

The Capital One Lounge is located near gate D22 and shares an entryway and elevators with the American Airlines Flagship Lounge. Up the elevators, break left and you will enter the spacious, smartly designed space. 

You will need to show the attendant your boarding pass for a flight departing that day and Capital One Venture X card.

The guidelines say that your flight must depart within 3 hours, but we haven’t been denied entry when ours left later. If the lounge becomes more crowded, the rules may become stricter.

Continuing into the main part of the lounge, there is a central hub around which food stations are arranged. I love the way this is set up – it avoids the long buffet lines, and you can just grab a little metal tray and seek out the dishes you want.

The dishes are on small plates, in ramekin bowls, or cute little pots, and consist of regional, chef-inspired dishes like bibimbap, mac and cheese with bacon, chicken adobo, mini-caprese salad, etc. We have found the food to be very good! 

In addition to the main dishes, there are pastry stations with croissants and pastries in the morning, and cookies and brownies in the afternoon and evening. There’s a coffee station and self-serve beverage stations.

One of the coolest features is their grab and go section, where you can get salads, sandwiches, beverages, and all sorts of other snacks to take with you. 

Around the periphery of the lounge are numerous partitioned sections with a variety of seating areas. There are dining tables, conversation sets of couches and/or chairs, and chairs facing the floor-to-ceiling windows where you can watch activity on the runway.

Toward the back is a full service bar with a great selection of wine, beer, and spirits.

Other Lounges In Terminal D

The Club

The Club is on the mezzanine level near gate D27. You can access The Club with your priority pass or by paying $50. I rarely visit The Club, because if I go all the way to Terminal D, I’m going to Centurion or Capital One… but I needed to check it out. 

The verdict? It was fine. Definitely better than sitting at the gate, but not worth a hike to Terminal D if you are departing from another terminal.

The Club can be accessed through Priority Pass or by paying a $50 per visit fee. You can enter the lounge 3 hours before your flight, but if your flight is delayed you can stay longer.

Children under 2 are free, and kids aged 2-17 must pay full price and be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.

There are several seating areas, some overlooking the concourse below. The food was good enough to fill your belly, and the buffet changes over from breakfast to lunch/dinner/all-day dining at 11:00 am. When we visited, they were serving enchiladas, soup, salad, a variety of fruit, and small desserts.

There is a full bar serving a limited variety of beer, wine, and spirits. High-speed Wi-Fi is available, and showers are complimentary – just book at the front desk.

KAL Korean Air Lounge

This lounge has closed permanently. Business and First Class passengers flying Korean Airlines can use the Capital One Lounge.

Drew Pearson’s Sport 88 

This sports bar, which serves breakfast in addition to typical bar food, is located near gate E5 and is open from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm. If your Priority Pass membership comes with the restaurant benefit, you can take $28 credit per person.

The benefit includes a guest, so you and one travel companion can save $56 on your meal by presenting your Priority Pass card and a boarding pass. Again, PP memberships obtained through Amex Platinum or Capital One Venture X do not include this benefit. 

Other Lounges In Terminal E

If you are departing from Terminal E, be sure to check which gates you are departing from, because this will greatly influence the amount of time it takes you to get to your gate.

Gates E22-30 are actually located in Satellite Terminal E, and you should allow an extra 5-10 minutes to walk to these gates. If you arrive in another terminal, take the SkyLink train to Terminal E, then you’ll have to walk down the corridor next to gate E21 to get to the satellite. 

Plaza Premium Lounge

Located near gate E31 and open from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm is one of two Plaza Premium Lounges in the US. The other is in Orlando (MCO). 

After years of traveling, the founder of Plaza Premium decided to open a chain of lounges available to anyone, regardless of class of travel. He developed the first Plaza Premium Lounge in Hong Kong in 1998, and they can now be found all over the world.

The majority of these lounges is in Asia, focusing on China, but they can be found on every continent in many major airports. In the past, you could access these lounges with Priority Pass, but that partnership ended in 2021. 

Now, you can access these lounges through your Amex Platinum (personal or business) credit card, Capital One Venture X card, or by purchasing a membership or one-time pass. 

When accessing via your Amex Platinum or Capital One card, you are entitled to two guests, free of charge.

If you want to pay outright for your visit, it will cost $50 per person for a 3-hour visit, or $25 for one hour (no free guests), and you can pay at the lounge or book ahead online up to one year in advance. The question is, should you?

The lounge is nicely decorated and comfortable, but can get crowded. The food selection is nothing special, but if you have access through a credit card and need a quick bite, it is not a bad option for a balanced meal. I personally would not pay for entry.

United Club 

The DFW United Club is located between gates E6 and E7. This is a basic option that is convenient if you are a United Airlines loyalist or have access with a credit card or boarding pass.

It is not the nicest United Club, but it can provide a quiet place and a free snack if you need it. With the wealth of choices, I would not hang out here unless it was my only option.

Delta Sky Club

Ditto for Delta in Dallas… this lounge, located between gates E10 and E11. reminds me of a doctor’s office waiting room with a view of the tarmac.

Again, if you have access as a Delta loyalist or credit card holder, it will meet your basic needs, but I would not seek it out.

Verdict

If you have a wallet full of metal credit cards, DFW will spoil you for choice! In my opinion, the Capital One Lounge is choice #1, Centurion is choice #2, and the American Airlines Flagship Lounge #3.

If I am traveling from Terminal E with a less than 2-hour layover, I’ll visit the Admirals Club or Plaza Premium Lounge.

If you don’t have Amex Platinum or Capital One Venture X but travel from or through DFW often, you should consider one of these cards. If you just look at the cost of airport food and drink, this will likely offset the annual fee. Add in the travel credits, and you can at least break even, but most likely come out ahead.

I personally would not choose Minute Suites or Gameway under any circumstance I can think of (but I am not a gamer). I’d prefer an Admiral’s Club or Airport hotel. I might pop into the United Club or Delta SkyClub if necessary to grab a snack and a quick respite from the crowds, if I had a quick layover in Terminal E. 

With anything longer than 2 hours, I would hoof it over to Terminal D and have a full meal and beverage at one of the premium lounges in that terminal. 

DFW has 5 terminals and 178 gates, which can be daunting at first, but it is pretty easy to get around once you are familiar with the layout. 

Overview

Viewed aerially, the airport at Dallas-Fort Worth is basically 3 ovals (One is still a half-oval) straddling a highway down the center. Terminals are designated A, B, C, D, and E, with D being the International Terminal, and thus the nicest of the 5.

A train called SkyLink connects the terminals and skirts the periphery, with two stops at each terminal. Just look for the signs for SkyLink, and then you’ll take an escalator to board the train.

DFW has 19 lounges at the time of writing. Each terminal has lounges, but the best ones are in Terminal D.

It takes about 15 minutes or so, depending on how fast you move, to get from one terminal to the other. If you have time, or can schedule a longer layover, it is definitely worth it to make your way to terminal D to visit the lounges. 

If you have a little time but don’t want to make the hike, you can find American Airlines Admirals’ clubs in every terminal. Other options include Minute Suites, a USO Lounge, United and Delta clubs, and more.

DFW Lounges are as follows:

Terminal A

• Admirals Club
• Minute Suites

Terminal B

• Admirals Club
• Gameway
• USO Lounge

Terminal C

• Admirals Club

Terminal D

• Admirals Club
• American AIrlines Flagship Lounge
• American Airlines Flagship First DIning
• Capital One Lounge
• Centurion Lounge
• The Club
• Korean Air KAL Lounge
• Minute Suites

Terminal E

• Admirals Club
• Delta Sky Club
• Plaza Premium
• United Club
• Gameway

Admirals Clubs

Admirals Clubs are great escapes from the chaos of the airport. Before we had an Amex Platinum credit card, this was where we hung out. In general, the staff are friendly, there is typically no wait, and there is plenty of comfortable seating.

The bar is adequate, but the food offerings tend to be a little slim. Unless you are a very light eater, it is difficult to get a full meal here for free.

You can order off of a menu, with reasonably priced dishes such as chicken nuggets, sandwiches, and salads for $9-$13. The good news is that American Airlines is in the process of expanding their menu options…

One great benefit of Admirals Clubs is that the agents can help you out with flight delays or other problems and rebooking.

Last time we visited was in the middle of a major ice storm in the Southeastern US, which had significantly affected most flights into and out of DFW, and almost shut down the airport. This resulted in long, slow-moving lines at all of the customer service desks.

In the lounge, however, there was no line. Moreover, the agent was in a great mood since she was not dealing with a ton of frustrated travelers.

She was empathetic and very helpful. In addition, we were able to wait in comfort to find out if we had secured seats on the rebooked flight. 

How To Access Admirals Clubs

There are several ways to gain access to Admirals Clubs.

1. Buy A Membership Or Day Pass

Fees for an annual membership vary based upon your AAdvantage status and range from $300/year for Executive Platinum to $450/year for regular members.

For the member and their spouse, these numbers range from $450/year to $750/year. You can instead pay with AAdvantage miles, ranging from 45,000-70,000 for the member, and 65,000-110,000 for member and spouse.

Admirals Club memberships will also get you into Alaska Airlines clubs, Qantas Clubs, Japan Airlines, and several other partner lounges around the world. For some, like the Al Safwa First Class Lounge in Doha, you have to have boarding passes in premium cabins.

One advantage to having a membership is that you can bring up to two guests for free, if they are flying American or other Oneworld Airlines. Day passes can also be purchased online or at the club for $79 or 7,900 AA Miles.

You can bring a child (under 18 years of age) with you, given that you both are flying American or one of its Oneworld partners. Worth it? Not if you have other options.

2. Flying First Or Business

Customers flying First or Business Class on certain American or other Oneworld Airlines flights can have access, but this often gets you into other, posher, lounges. Check your LoungeBuddy app to explore your options.

Eligible flights are international flights, transcontinental flights within the US, and flights from certain cities on the mainland to Hawaii.

3. AAdvantage Platinum, Platinum Pro, Or Executive Platinum    

If you are an AAdvantage Platinum, Platinum Pro, or Executive Platinum member, you have access to Admirals Clubs when flying Internationally on American or its Oneworld Partners, regardless of cabin.

Same goes for flights marketed by Aer Lingus and operated by American. These folks can bring one guest traveling on the same flight.

4. Non-AAdvantage Oneworld Sapphire & Emerald

Non-AAdvantage Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members when flying internationally on American or Oneworld airlines. Same guest policies as #3.

5. Citibank AAdvantage Executive

Citibank AAdvantage Executive cardholders flying on a flight operated by American or its Oneworld partners. I have this card and keep it for Admirals Club access, because I cannot bear to sit at the gate for longer than 20-30 minutes and I’d prefer to pay the $595 fee to keep my lounge ‘back-up plan’.

Right now, you can get 70,000 bonus miles after spending $7,000 in the first 3 months. Other perks of this card include priority check-in, free checked bags, no foreign transaction fees, and 4X miles on American Airlines purchases.

Cardmembers can bring 2 guests.

6. US Military

Members of the US military traveling in their uniform on a same-day flight operated by American can access domestic and international Admirals Clubs, based on capacity, except for the Airspace lounge in San Diego and the JAL Sakura Lounge in Honolulu.

They can bring their immediate family or two guests.

Amenities

Admirals Clubs have a limited selection of morning and afternoon snacks. Breakfast snacks usually consist of pastries, bagels, cereal, yogurt, and fruit.

In the afternoon/evening, you’ll find cheese cubes, fruit and crudité vegetables, dip, hummus, crackers, pasta salad, two types of soup, and desserts like cookies, brownies, and rice crispy treats. 

Non-alcoholic beverages are available, as well as domestic beer, house wine, and well spirits. For an upcharge, you can choose premium alcohol, and there is a limited menu of food items you can pay for.

Recently, little carts have been available that serve avocado toast in the morning and guacamole in the afternoons at select Admirals Clubs.

In late 2023, American Airlines began updating their Admirals Clubs and adding a more extensive selection of food. The updates began at DCA in Washington DC and are being extended through the network of Admirals Clubs at the time of writing (early 2024).

More hot menu items are being incorporated for both breakfast and lunch/dinner, with increased membership fees to accompany.

Comparing DFW Admirals Clubs

Terminal A

The Admirals Club in terminal A, opposite gate A24, is the most modern and tends to have a few extra snack options. It is pretty spacious, but the Wi-Fi tends to be a little slow.

Terminal B

The biggest problem with the lounge in terminal B is that it is pretty far out of the way, and takes quite a hike to reach. It is between gates B3 and B4, which is waaaaay at one end of terminal B, far from the Sky Link station.

When we visited for the first time, I thought for sure we had missed it. It is so far away, and the doorway and sign are pretty subtle.

I’d only use this one if I had to. It is small, quiet, and has one shower suite.

Terminal C

This is one of the better Admirals Clubs. Located between gates C19 and C20, it has a grander entrance than the others and is pretty spacious, with numerous different seating areas.

There are a couple of shower suites, snack areas, coffee stations, and a bar. It can get crowded, but doesn’t feel so to me, since the seating areas are partitioned off. 

Terminal D

This one is relatively new and large, and located between gates D23 and D24. It tends to be less crowded, likely because there are several lounge options in terminal D.

I think it is an excellent choice if you don’t have access to the other lounges. 

American Airlines Flagship Lounge

As opposed to the Admirals Clubs, the Flagship Lounge consistently rates as one of the best domestic lounges in the US. It is a few steps up from regular Admirals Clubs, and access is more restrictive. 

Customers flying First or Business Class on eligible flights, including American or Oneworld International flights, Transcontinental flights within the US, and flights from certain cities on the mainland to Hawaii have access.

AAdvantage Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Executive Platinum as well as Alaska Airlines MVP Gold and Gold 75K have access when flying the above mentioned flights in any cabin and can bring one guest.

Concierge Key customers can visit this lounge any time they are flying American or Oneworld flights, and can bring immediate family or two guests. 

If you have obtained Oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status on any airline other than American, you can visit the lounge any time you are flying American or Oneworld, and you can bring one guest.     

If you are flying American or Oneworld, you can purchase a day pass for $150 or 15,000 AAdvantage miles. 

Located near gate D21, in the same area as the Capital One Lounge, you can enjoy premium food and beverages here and, unlike the Admirals Clubs, everything is included. 

Upon entering the massive 25,000 square foot lounge, you are greeted with a glass of Piper Heidsieck champagne to set the tone for your visit. The decor is clean and modern, and there are lots of seating areas to choose from.

I can’t really see this lounge becoming overcrowded, despite Dallas being a massive American Airlines hub. There are two sets of restrooms and several shower suites which you can reserve at the front desk. 

The alcohol is self-service here, which is fine. Not ideal if you are looking for craft cocktails, but pretty easy if your taste in beverages is simpler. 

There’s a nice buffet with hot and cold dishes, including charcuterie and sushi. 

Overall, not quite on the same level as United Polaris, but probably on par with Centurion. I would not pay the $150 for a day pass unless it was my only option. 

American Airlines Flagship First Dining

Yet another step up from the Flagship Lounge is Flagship First Dining. This lounge within a lounge is reserved for guests flying Flagship First International on American Airlines, who can bring one guest, or Flagship First Transcontinental or Flagship Business Plus, who cannot bring a guest. 

The lounge is open from noon until 10pm and offers a sit-down, fine dining experience with locally sourced ingredients, James Beard chef inspired dishes, upscale wines, and craft cocktails. 

Verdict

If you are passing through the Lone Star State, two-step your way to one of American Airlines’ Lounges. While there are more posh choices than the Admirals Clubs, they still offer a quiet respite from the insanity of this massive hub.

You may not find enough food to fill your belly, but the provided snacks will tide you over, and the drink selection is more than adequate. My advice: don’t pay for the Admirals Club unless you have no other option, but if you have access, then they are worth a stopover. 

The Flagship Lounge and Flagship First Dining Room are another story! If you are flying in a premium cabin on American or other Oneworld Alliance airlines, pass the time here. 

For cash-paying customers: While you can pay $150 to access the Flagship Lounge, I’d go to the Capital One Lounge next door for $65. The food options are as good, if not better, and the vibe is cool and hip. 

Not an AAdvantage member? Check out my next article on DFW Lounges. There are plenty of (better) choices! 

Before flying back from Belfast to London, I spent three hours in the Aspire Lounge, which is the main lounge that George Best Belfast City Airport offers.

I enjoyed the lounge, finding it much quieter and more peaceful than lounges at busier airports like London Heathrow. The interior is tasteful, with a dusky pink, brown, and muted blue color palette. While limited to two main tables, the buffet was also still impressively varied. 

The Aspire Lounge was only launched in 2020, so it’s a relatively new adjustment to BHD. I’ll run you through some general information, including the Aspire Lounge brand and how it came to be at this specific airport, plus an honest review of my personal experience.

Where Is The Aspire Lounge In Belfast City Airport?

The Aspire Lounge at BHD is located immediately as you exit duty-free, right next to Gate 4.

You walk through duty-free, passing WHSmith and a general seating area before seeing a corridor on your left. You’ll see the lounge entrance straight ahead, with a clear banner announcing the Aspire brand.

It takes less than a minute to find. Belfast City Airport isn’t exactly known for its size!

The Story Of The Aspire Lounge At Belfast City Airport 

Originally, this was a British Airways lounge. However, in 2020, the airline handed the lounge over to Aspire — an international chain of lounges. 

The lounge had a shaky start and desperately needed investments in refurbishments. So, in 2023, Aspire invested nearly $1.5 million to completely switch up the lounge’s aesthetic. 

The lounge you see today is that refurbished lounge. However, certain aspects of its original layout remain, like the doorway straight to Gate 4, where BA planes fly from. It’s a nod to the lounge’s earlier history.

Getting Access To Aspire Lounge Belfast City Airport

Anyone can get access to the Aspire Lounge at Belfast City Airport. Aspire has an open-door policy, meaning all passengers of all fare types can simply buy access on arrival if they’re not granted free access with their Business or First Class boarding pass.

Prices start at £32.99 ($41.09) – which I would confidently say is worthwhile, especially as there’s no booking fee.

You can book online to guarantee access, but to be honest, I don’t see it ever selling out of space. It seems a low-risk gamble to just rock up on the day. 

As I’ve mentioned, you can access the Aspire Lounge for free via your fare class. If you fly with British Airways in Business Class or above, full access comes included. This is a nice touch and another nod to Aspire’s partnership with BA.

Certain eligible passengers on KLM and Aer Lingus can also access the lounge on a complimentary basis, so double-check your fare details.

Inside The Aspire Lounge 

Emerging from security, it is a brief minute’s walk up a flight of stairs and through a modest duty-free section.

I’d heard that the lounge was next to Gate 4 and, sure enough, immediately on my left, there it was. It is a little hidden away, but BHD is so small that you’ll have no problem finding it.

The check-in process was a breeze. I handed over my boarding pass, and a smiling lady quickly entered some details into a computer before waving me on in.

As British Airways partnered with Aspire and I was flying Business Class, I received complimentary access, which felt great.

First impressions are very good; everything is friendly, smart, and organized. The lounge is partially open-plan, separated by shelving-style walls and columns, creating a sense of privacy with quieter corners to find yet abundant natural lighting.

As I wanted to do some work on my laptop before the flight, this was the perfect atmosphere to walk into.

The color scheme consisted of dusky pink, muted blue, and natural wooden brown. Aspire’s refurbishment had been achieved with class – the environment felt super trendy with that all important touch of style. 

There are many places available for seating, including booths, tables, and comfortable armchairs. The fact that Belfast City Airport is so quiet also helps, as the lounge stayed near-empty the entire time I was there. 

In fact, I’m pretty sure it was only me and my fellow passengers there. I recognized almost everyone onboard the plane in Business Class. So, if you want somewhere quiet to relax and work, this lounge is definitely a peaceful corner of BHD.

There are bathrooms inside the lounge, all decked out with bright white walls and lighting. It felt airy and clean, welcoming you to freshen up without worrying about a grumbling queue. 

I picked a comfortable booth with a table to set my laptop down, making use of the row of under-seat chargers.

Eating At The Aspire Lounge

The buffet table set up at the Aspire Lounge is a little limited. I’m also a vegetarian, which is usually a bit of a kicker at lounges, which typically massively cater to less fussy eaters. I’ve got to admit, I had my reservations and doubted I’d get much of a selection looking at the table sizes.

It was a pleasant surprise, though. At 1pm, it was that awkward lunch time, where nobody typically knows who fancies a piping hot main meal or a light brunch.

It cleverly struck a balance between both: offering a table dedicated to hot dishes (although admittedly only substantially offering curry and rice) and a table for lighter dishes.

I preferred the lighter-dish table, which offered a ‘picky lunch’ type of situation. The salad selection was gorgeous, and there was a moreish selection of cheeses and crackers. I ate a small fortune in olives and blue cheese.

I stuck to a cappuccino for a drink. However, there was a huge selection of alcoholic beverages at a self-serve corner bar. You could pour yourself prosecco or a spirit and mixer — the selection is pretty grand and set against a striking white bar. 

There are also two coffee machines and a selection of tasty herbal and standard teas, so I headed there for a quick ‘wake-up’ caffeine fix.

It would be interesting to see how the menu changes throughout the day. At 1pm, there wasn’t too much pressure for me to get food: I’d eaten lunch in Belfast and was eating on the plane. But you can see why the lounge does catch some criticism for limited food options. 

I’d suggest treating it as a place to have a light meal rather than a chance to fill your boots. The staff were always on hand to top things up, and the whole buffet was kept spotless, so full points for the service and efficiency.

The Atmosphere

As I’ve mentioned, the atmosphere at BHD’s Aspire Lounge is honestly perfect for remote working. My pet peeve is overrun lounges, where you can’t find a charging point, and the noise levels are too high to work productively anyway.

This isn’t the case with this lounge. Because of Belfast City Airport’s small size, there is barely anyone inside the Aspire Lounge. I traveled on a Sunday afternoon, and it was peacefully quiet.

Three hours before departure, there were only me and two other passengers (both of whom were on the same plane) in the lounge. There was a rather fabulous-looking older lady in a bold leopard print dress, spectacles, and natural gray hair in a blowout. She sat quietly reading on her tablet, and another gentleman sat typing on a laptop.

Even as it got busier, only a maximum of 10-15 people were there. The loudest it got was a man making a phone call and a couple of friends chatting in a lowered tone.

The layout is really clever, with the illusion of private spaces but an open plan that provides natural lighting. The runway views are also spectacular, with an entire wall boasting floor-to-ceiling windows and views of the planes lined up for departure.

It’s quiet enough to concentrate, but well-designed enough to inspire you and feel a bit indulgent. 

There are large boarding information screens, which are ideal for keeping track of your flight. And furthermore, there’s a separate door that takes you straight to check-in if you’re flying with British Airways (who always fly from Gate 4). I loved this feature as it meant I switched off from boarding. It is a relaxing setup that makes the whole process hassle-free.

The atmosphere was by far my favorite quality of this lounge. I’d actually recommend paying for access just to make use of it as a co-working space. 

To Conclude: Is It Worth It? 

All things considered, I would recommend the Aspire Lounge at Belfast City Airport. Its best factor is its atmosphere, and the fact it’s so quiet means you actually get value out of what you need from a lounge — bagging a quiet workspace and a peaceful pre-flight experience. 

Looking at the pre-upgrade design, it’s amazing to see how much the investment has revolutionized the interior and atmosphere. Before, it had a bit of a dull look, but now it has the appearance of a boutique lounge.

It feels fresh and inspiring, where you can enjoy the pre-flight experience. 

At 1pm, the food was of great quality, albeit slightly limited in its quantity. But honestly, you can still find a dish that works for you; just don’t go in expecting an all-you-can-eat experience and measure your expectations. The blue cheese and olives combination gets my vote.

The Aspire Lounge at Belfast City Airport is a bit of a wallflower. Its atmosphere is quiet and its design is pretty, and it’s a recommendable place to spend your pre-flight experience. 

I’m writing this review as I sit in the rebranded version, and will give you my honest verdict in this Tujuwan Lounge review.

First things first, let’s set the scene. I was already not in the best of moods thanks to flash flooding in Dubai (where I’m catching my connecting flight), giving me a 2-hour delay accompanied with the prospect of missing my connecting flight to London Heathrow and being stranded in a flooded Dubai airport for hours (maybe days, if they doom mongers on X are to be believed – yes, I need to stop planning for the worst).

So it looks like I’m going to be spending the best part of 3 hours in the Tujuwan Lounge – the lounge offered to pretty much all Business and First Class passengers on any of the major international airlines, including Emirates (my airline today), Qatar, Qantas, and many more.

There are two other lounges to choose from: a budget option that didn’t seem to have a name, and the Concordia Lounge, which is located next door (Concordia is a Priority Pass lounge). 

The reviews I’d read about the formerly named Premier Lounge and Concordia were equally terrible, with Google reviews kicking up common statements such as:

‘This lounge is constantly crowded and you’re lucky to get a seat.’

‘No alcohol here – be warned.’

‘The bread is stale and the food choices are slim.’

So it’s fair to say I wasn’t looking forward to the experience. I was even planning to eat downstairs at one of the many appetite-inducing eateries rather than the food poisoning that one reviewer had claimed they’d had as a result of their visit.

After one glass of white wine, I can confirm that at least one of the above statements is no longer true.

But how did the rest of my experience fare? Let’s get into it…

My Tujuwan Lounge Experience

As I mentioned earlier, I had done my research on the lounges at Bali – even more so when I learned I could be spending many hours in one. So I had tempered my expectations.

My concluding impression? I was very pleasantly surprised by the lounge, and I can tell you 100% that it is not the worst lounge in the world.

My guess is that the renaming of the lounge has coincided with a clear effort to improve – and to cater to an international traveler. 

Although Bali is mainly Hindu, the old operation was more akin to a lounge you would find in a predominantly Muslim country (which Indonesia is). And as such, alcohol was not served.

Anyone who does drink will tell you that a lounge without alcohol is not much fun.

The beverage offering at Tujuwan is decent. They offer a range of cocktails (including espresso martinis), mocktails, beer, and a selection of wine – all served from a small bar area. They also have plenty of bottled water, soda water, soft drinks, and self-serve tea and coffee.

The food options, while not plentiful, were pleasant. They were being renewed and replenished regularly during my evening visit, and there were at least five different options – some local and some international (spaghetti). 

There were some local desserts, sandwiches (these didn’t look particularly appetising, so I didn’t bother), and some snacks such as nuts and cookies.

The atmosphere in the lounge was equally pleasant. It was not busy, with at least 50 free seats. As I write this I have 10 empty seats and tables next me with just one occupied.

I had read that the plugs didn’t work and they had no USB sockets. Again, this is not the case anymore.

I am currently charging my iPhone from a USB 2.0 socket (I did need my trusty 3 to 2.0 adapter, which I take on journeys like this as charging points are often an issue), and it is working a treat.

The seats are comfortable and there a few different zones to choose from. Almost all have low tables though, so if you are planning on working on a laptop you may find yourself hunched over (as I am right now).

There are several standalone air-conditioning units, but they do not seem the most effective. I overheard one member of staff informing a guest that they were not working properly – and it’s a little warm in the lounge. Not uncomfortably so, although I have been traveling for a month so I have probably adjusted somewhat.

The most impressive aspect of this visit is the staff. They are superb.

They are well presented, friendly, plentiful, and can’t do enough to make sure you are happy. I dared to walk up to the bar to get a second glass of wine and I was promptly told to sit down as she followed me to my seat and carried my drink for me.

As my flight was delayed, on entry one staff member talked me through the issue in Dubai and informed me of how to track it from within the lounge. This was pretty obvious, as there is a large screen displaying the information – but it’s a nice touch all the same.

One thing I love about airport lounges are the restrooms. Some don’t have them, but thankfully the Tujuwan Lounge does.

They are not the largest, but there is one shower in both the mens’ and ladies’ – and the restrooms are clean enough.

Verdict

All in all, is the Tujuwan Lounge the worst in the world? No – not by a long shot. In fact, I quite enjoyed it. 

Okay, so the food is not the best I’ve had – but it was fresh, hot and tasty. I was expecting no booze, but was instead greeted with a good cocktail menu, decent wine (the Chenin Blanc was my tipple), and beer.

It’s comfortable, not over-crowded, and they seem to have got the basics right.

Bali is hardly like Dubai, so shouldn’t be judged by the same standards – but it is a very pleasant and comfortable lounge and my three hours here were hardly the worst way to start my 18-hour (hopefully) journey home.

However, like all airport experiences, not all lounges are equal. If you’re traveling from Edinburgh, an option you’ll have is to visit the Aspire Lounge at Gate 16.

Is it worth the entrance price or one of your Priority Pass visits? Find out in my Aspire Lounge Edinburgh review…

Finding The Edinburgh Aspire Lounge At Gate 16

I’ve been to some airports where reaching the lounge is a little like searching for a needle in a haystack. You won’t have such problems with this Aspire Lounge.

It’s perched above Pret A Manger in the northeast corner of the terminal; perfect if you’re flying from gates 10 through 29.

If you are departing from gates 1 through 9, there is another Aspire Lounge at Gate 4. It’s not as modern as the lounge at gate 16, but you do get many of the same services and food and drink choices.

Once you’ve cleared security, it’s a straightforward walk to the lounge at gate 16 – turn right, and keep going! It’s going to take you around 5 to 10 minutes to get there, assuming you don’t make any impromptu stops on the way.

First Impressions

When you walk into the lounge, the first thing you’ll notice is the eclectic vibe. It’s cozy yet spacious.

There’s a mix of comfortable sofas, dining tables, and work booths that are like mini-offices. The light’s not so bright as to cause glare, but not too soft to strain your eyes – exactly right, whether you’re catching up on a little work or a little sleep before boarding.

The Work Booths

As I’m the kind of traveler who falls asleep quickly on planes (especially long-haul flights), I tend to use lounges to do a little work before flying. If you do likewise, you’ll find the work booths in this lounge more than adequate.

The Wi-Fi is fast and free, with no annoying sign-in pages. Documents and the like take no time to download – which is also great for that last-minute book purchase to while away the time on your flight.

There’s a charging point at each desk, too. Plug in and ensure you have enough juice to power your device across the Atlantic.

Let’s Talk Food & Drink

There’s no need to go hungry here, with a range of hot and cold food and snacks served buffet style. There are options galore on the breakfast menu, from bacon and eggs to pancakes, cereals, and fruit.

From midday through to close, you can enjoy light meals that might include options such as chicken tikka masala, chili con carne, and cauliflower, butternut squash and spinach dhansak with rice, as well as a range of salads, pastries, cheese, sliced ham, and biscuits.

Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are available – though you’ll need to pay a little extra for premium brand drinks, champagne, and prosecco – as well as tea and coffee.

You won’t be able to get a full three-course menu here, but there’s no limit on what you can eat, and a fair selection. Plenty if, like me, you want something substantial enough to sate your appetite without blowing you up like a balloon before you take your seat on the plane.

The Atmosphere

Have you ever experienced that some airport lounges can feel a little stiff and stuffy? Not so with Aspire in Edinburgh. If you’re mixing business with pleasure, the work booths are solid gold.

They’re quiet, adequately equipped and comfortable, and just enough separation from your fellow lounge visitors. No problems with catching up with emails, creating some content, or doing a spot of brainstorming.

Outside of the booths, you’ll find there’s a community feel about the place. It’s somewhere you can people watch, while maintaining the privacy you seek.

From families going on vacation and kicking back in a family booth with personal televisions, to couples getting away for a romantic weekend, to executives taking solo business trips, the world wanders in and out of this relaxed airport lounge.

If you simply want to do a bit of bird watching – the 500,000-pound, metal variety, that is – then you’ll love the view over the airfield and toward the beautiful city you’re leaving behind.

Extras That Count

Apart from the relaxing surroundings, the splendid views, the ample food and drink, and the ideal workstations and family booths, you’ll also be able to pick up any one of a number of complimentary newspapers and magazines to read while you wait to be called for your flight.

However, a standout feature is the PressReader access. This is like a digital newsstand for downloading any of up to 7,000 publications from around the world.

No need to struggle with an armful of newspapers and magazines when boarding your flight – simply download onto your mobile device and away you go. There, you have reading material for your flight, and also for when you arrive at your destination.

Who Can Use This Lounge?

Whichever your class of travel, you can use the Aspire Lounges at Edinburgh Airport. You will be expected to be wearing smart casual dress – no sports shirts, baseball caps, or other sportswear; no clothing with offensive language or slogans; etc.

While you don’t need to book, I’ve been caught out when I haven’t reserved my entry before. To avoid being disappointed or being asked to wait to gain entry, I’d recommend that you book online.

Opening Times

The Aspire Lounge at Gate 16 is open Monday to Sunday between 4:30am and 8pm, except on Saturday when it closes at 7pm. (The lounge at Gate 4 has similar opening hours, except it is open between 9am and 5pm on Tuesday.)

You can stay in the lounge for up to three hours before your flight time. If you have pre-booked directly with Executive Lounges and your flight is delayed, you can stay in the lounge until your flight is ready to board.

How Much Does The Aspire Lounge At Edinburgh Airport Cost?

When I last checked this lounge, the cost was £43.99 for an adult, with a concession price of £39.99 for those aged 65 and older. Children between 2 and 11 are charged £29.99, and those younger than this are free of charge.

Of course, these prices are subject to change, and you should always check prices before you book entry.

If you’ve booked using a cardholder scheme – like Priority Pass, for example – don’t forget to take your pass/membership card with you.

Maximize Your Aspire Lounge Experience

You’ll want to get as much as you can from your time in the Aspire Lounge. To do this, all it takes is a little planning to make the most of your Aspire experience. Here are a few pointers.

Book Your Entry

Don’t risk arriving and being turned away – book your entry ahead of time. This is especially important during peak times – like summer and the holiday season.

Plus, when you book direct, you’ll get some extra benefits like free delay cover.

Plan Your Time In The Lounge

Have a game plan for your lounge stay. Know which gate you’ll be departing from, and your boarding time.

Consider how long you want to chill in the lounge before your flight, and factor in lounge-to-gate walk time. If you plan to do some work while you’re here, prepare it in advance.

Arrive Early

A no-brainer? Sure is, but it’s about more than being on time for your flight. For me, it’s about giving myself plenty of time to enjoy the lounge.

I don’t want to be rushed. I don’t want to feel like I haven’t had value for money.

Arrive early and you get a better choice of seats, too, whether you want a quiet corner, a window seat, or a place for people watching.

Settle In

When you have arrived and checked into the Aspire Lounge, take a few moments to get settled. Do you want to relax with a newspaper, or do you want to get stuck in some work?

Take the bag off your shoulder, sit down, and breathe. Get a drink, and let the pre-flight stress melt away.

Charge Your Devices

There’s nothing worse than boarding a flight with partially charged devices, is there? There are plenty of charging points here – use them and charge everything you can.

You don’t want to get halfway through that film you downloaded for the flight only for it to be interrupted because of a lack of charge.

Make Use Of PressReader

PressReader gives access to thousands of global publications. You don’t want to miss this gem!

Before you arrive at the airport, review what publications are available on the PressReader website, and make a list of those you want to download. Stock up while you’re in the lounge; they’re all yours to keep for the flight and beyond.

Enjoy All The Aspire Amenities

Finally, take advantage of all the amenities that the Aspire Lounge has to offer. Tasty, complimentary food and drinks, and a desk to work at in a quiet, comfortable environment.

Whether you want to have a hearty breakfast, simply sip a coffee while you get up to date on the latest headlines, enjoy the views, or have a snack while catching up on last-minute work tasks, this is your time and space to ease into your flight.

Seat Belts On, Prepare For Take Off

Usually, those last couple of hours before your flight departs is time to kill. Shouldn’t it be an integral part of your journey?

Book into the Aspire Lounge at Edinburgh Airport, and you’ll elevate your travel experience from the humdrum. You don’t need a First Class ticket to feel like a VIP.

Oh, that question about if the cost is worth it? I think you now know the answer.

This trip actually started out as a completely different adventure – a flight to Quito, Ecuador for a cruise in the Galapagos Islands. But hey, that’s the beauty of travel, right? Sometimes things take a detour (like when your travel buddy throws out their shoulder – ouch!).

Luckily, we were able to use our flight credit for a fabulous trip to Rio de Janeiro for New Year’s Eve and a cruise to Buenos Aires, Argentina!

Polaris Overview

Now, about that Business Class – let me tell you, I was surprised and very pleased.

United States carriers are not known for their premium products. Typically Asian, Middle Eastern, and European airlines receive more accolades and have superior hard and soft products. United Airlines has stepped up their game with their Polaris Business Class.

Back in 2016, bigwigs at United realized they needed to improve their Business Class product. After numerous snafus and setbacks, the new product was rolled out in 2017, and United’s entire fleet of widebody aircraft was upgraded to Polaris by July of 2023.

So, all of their 767s, 777s, and 787s currently feature Polaris.

United has discontinued its First Class cabin on International flights, so Polaris is the highest level you will find in their premium cabins. 

We originally paid around $2,000 for the seats to Quito, which might seem steep, but trust me, it was worth it. Especially considering the economy seats on this Rio flight were over $1,200!

Plus, when we rebooked, we only had to pay an extra $400 each for a flight that was twice as long. Score!

United Lounges & How To Access Them

United has three types of lounges: United Club, United Club Fly, and Polaris. 

United Club fly Lounges have the same access rules as United Clubs, and at the time of writing, there is only one Club Fly, located in the Denver International Airport.

This is a grab-and-go lounge where you can stop by and grab snacks for your next flight.

There are 45 United Clubs in 30 airports around the US, and here are the methods of access:

Membership

You can purchase membership for $650 or 85,000 miles per year. This also gives you access to COPA and Star Alliance Lounges around the world.

How You Fly

By flying international Business or First Class on United or Star Alliance partners, including flights to and from Canada.

Certain Credit Cards

The United Club Infinite Card and the United Club Business Card give you United Club membership.

These are United’s premium cards and come with hefty annual fees, which could be worth it if you fly United often. Fees are $525 for the personal card and $450 for the business version.

They also give you priority check-in and numerous other perks.

Other credit cards give you two annual passes: The United Explorer Card and the United Business Card, which have lower annual fees of $0 the first year and $95 each year after that for the personal card and $99 for the business card.

Other Memberships & Status

If you have Star Alliance Gold status and are flying United or a Star Alliance partner, you can bring one guest.

If you are an Air Canada Maple Leaf member flying on a Star Alliance flight.

Virgin Australia Velocity Platinum, Gold, and VIP members can visit United Club locations and United Club Fly at departure airports.

You will need a same-day boarding pass for an international United or Virgin Australia-operated flight. You can bring one guest to United Club locations.

Single Entry Fee

Purchase one-time access for $65 when flying United or a Star Alliance partner.

Note: United Clubs are not part of the Priority Pass Lounge network.

United Polaris Lounges are located in 6 airports in the US and 5 outside of the US: 

Check In

To use United’s Premier Access check-in line, you must:

• Be flying United Polaris Business Class or domestic First Class;
• Be flying in the premium cabin of a Star Alliance partner airline;
• Carry Elite status on Star Alliance;
• Have one of the United Airlines Premium credit cards; or
• Have purchased Premier Access.

When flying United Polaris, you can check two bags weighing up to 70 pounds each, for free.

United Economy Class from Little Rock, Arkansas to Houston, Texas

The first leg of our trip from Little Rock to Houston was in Economy Class.

Even in coach, the flight attendants were awesome! They kept us well-informed, the service was friendly, and the snacks were surprisingly good.

Now, the actual seats themselves? Not so great. They were on the small side, legroom included, and even for a short stack like me (5’2″!), it felt a bit cramped. 

The stroopwafels eased my pain a bit! I was informed that the proper way to eat a stroopwafel is to place it over the top of your hot cup of coffee for a few minutes, allowing the caramel filling to warm up and melt just a little. Divine!

United Polaris Lounge, Houston, Texas

Our first flight landed in one terminal and departed from another, and Houston has basic United Clubs in Terminals A, B, C, and E since it is a United hub.

We could have used any of those United clubs but, knowing we had a luxurious oasis waiting in Terminal E, we hopped on the airport train for a little detour to the Polaris Lounge. Let me tell you, it was absolutely worth the extra legwork!

Dining Options

In addition to snack and beverage stations set up around the lounge, there were two main choices for your dining pleasure: the buffet and the main dining room.

Buffet

They had a fantastic buffet spread with something for everyone. Cheese lovers rejoice!

There was an impressive selection, alongside cured meats, perfect for a light nosh. But it wasn’t all finger food. For a more substantial bite, they offered an extensive hot buffet with a number of South American-inspired dishes including ‘pollo arvejado’ – a Chilean chicken stew.

And of course, no meal is complete without dessert. The Polaris Lounge offered a decadent choice between pumpkin pie (a classic for a reason) and a creamy Italian custard that looked delicious.

The Main Dining Room

The buffet was great, but if you have time for a full dining experience, take the time for a three-course dinner in their bistro-style restaurant. 

The menu changes throughout the day, offering breakfast options like French toast served with fig and drizzled with caramel, or a more heart-healthy grain bowl.

Lighter fare like yogurt and pastries are also available.

Dinner and lunch take a more adventurous turn. Starters like butternut squash soup or ceviche whet your appetite, while cheese plates offer a classic indulgence.

The main course options on our visit were truly tempting: cauliflower with gochujang, short ribs, sea bass, and the legendary Signature Polaris Burger.

Speaking of legendary, that Polaris Burger lives up to its fame. A juicy patty comes loaded with all the classic toppings – bacon, cheese, veggies – plus some exciting extras like egg and avocado. The fries were perfectly seasoned but a touch undercooked.

I opted for the pan-roasted sea bass, served with sides of couscous and wilted kale, which was a light and flavorful dish that left room for dessert.

It was impossible to resist trying both options: the cheesecake with apple crisp and the fig tart. They were both delightful little bites, the perfect ending to a fantastic meal.

The impeccable service by our server, Jay, just added to the overall restaurant-quality experience.

This lounge was not just about the food (although it was amazing!). The entire experience was designed for relaxation and comfort.

The bar offered a curated selection of beer, wine, and liquor, perfect for unwinding before your flight. Feeling adventurous? The creative cocktail menu, updated regularly, offered exciting options.

While the lounge itself was surprisingly busy, there was ample seating to choose from. We even spotted a few families with children, but thankfully none were disruptive.

The seating arrangements were varied, with conversation sets for two to four, as well as individual pods with tables for those needing to get some work done. The overall décor was a step up from your typical United Club, offering a classy and sophisticated atmosphere.

Beyond the food and drinks, the lounge boasted other amenities.

If you needed to make any travel changes, friendly agents were on hand to assist you. Feeling a bit travel-worn? The Polaris Lounge offered shower suites, perfect for freshening up before your flight, and plenty of sparkly clean restrooms.

United Polaris Business Class from Houston to Rio de Janeiro

After what felt like a quick visit, we made our way to Terminal C for our departure. We arrived just in time for boarding, and walked right onto the plane.

Our 10-hour flight was on a Boeing 767. The Economy Class cabin had 184 seats and Business Class had 30 lie-flat semi-private seats, carrying a total of 214 passengers.

We had a slight delay, which only prolonged our enjoyment of this experience!

The Premium cabin had 10 rows of seats, arranged in a 1-1-1 configuration, with each seat having access to the aisle. For folks traveling together, you really don’t have options for sitting close enough for conversation.

Bedding

The passenger seat was designed in partnership with Acumen Design Associates and Priestman Goode, and manufactured by Zodiac Seats in the UK. It was furnished with premium bedding from Saks Fifth Avenue.

This included a small pillow, a lightweight throw blanket with a colorful design, and a sealed kit containing a larger cooling gel pillow and a comforter. Notably, pajamas were not provided on this particular flight, but you will receive them on extended journeys exceeding 14 hours.

If you would like a mattress pad, be sure to request one ahead of time.
I hear United does not carry enough for every seat. I didn’t need one.

Amenity Kit

United has upgraded its amenity kits since we traveled three months ago – now amenity kits are larger and include an ‘Away‘ brand hard travel case.

When we traveled, we received practical items including socks, ear plugs, a dental kit, a sleep mask, tissues, and a baggie containing Therabody brand facial moisturizer, revitalizing eye serum, facial mist, hand lotion, lip balm, and a face wipe. All of these items were contained in a stylish gray fanny pack.

Personal Storage

The seat pod offered ample storage space for passenger belongings. A small cabinet located on the aisle side housed a bottle of water and headphones.

Additional storage options included cubbies beneath the armrest and under the footrest for carry-on items, and a compartment nestled under the personal entertainment system display, suitable for smaller electronics such as mobile phones.

For added convenience, the seat provided a standard electrical outlet for charging devices, a reading light for nighttime travel, and a remote control for the in-flight entertainment system.

Pre-Flight Fun

I’m a sucker for a good in-flight menu! Especially when you’re flying in Business or First Class, browsing those options beforehand really gets me excited for the trip.

Plus, it guarantees you get your first choice – popular dishes can disappear fast. On this flight, I went with the short ribs, which sounded incredible.

Boarding & Take-Off

Shortly after we were seated, the flight attendant brought around a tray of pre-departure beverages. I chose champagne, and she also offered orange juice.

Our delay just meant more time to enjoy the comfy seats and dig into the entertainment options! They had a great selection of movies, so I wasted no time getting stuck in!

Turbulent Start, Expedited Service

We hit some bumpy air early on, which pushed meal service back a couple of hours.

The silver lining? Once they got the go-ahead, the flight attendants really hustled to expedite our meal service. They knew we were probably eager to get some sleep.

Even on flights where meals are served on time, you can request ‘Express Dining‘ if you’re looking to rest earlier.

The Meal

The food itself was delicious! I started with the salad with prawn lemon zest confit, which was refreshing.

But the real star was the main course – those seared short ribs with Asian flare. They were melt-in-your-mouth tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The stir-fried vegetables and steamed jasmine rice were great accompaniments.

To finish things off, I treated myself to the selection of cheeses, fruit, and crackers, which hit the spot. The whole meal was paired with a nice Bordeaux – a delightful choice.

Snacks were available any time, but I was way too satisfied from the main meal to even think about them! I hear there is a made-to-order sundae menu available, but I didn’t even consider it. 

Breakfast & Landing

About 45-60 minutes before landing, the flight attendants came around with breakfast. I opted for the egg bites, made with egg whites, peppers, and Monterey Jack cheese, which were a light and delicious way to end the flight.

Overall, a fantastic in-flight dining experience!

Verdict

United Airlines has significantly upgraded their long-haul international Business Class offering with the introduction of Polaris Business Class.

Inspired by the North Star and designed for maximum comfort, Polaris Business Class boasts features like lie-flat seats, luxurious Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, and personal entertainment systems. The in-flight dining experience is also noteworthy, featuring chef-designed menus with global flavors.

Overall, this new offering positions United Airlines to compete more effectively with renowned premium cabins from Asian, European, and Middle Eastern airlines.

While the Polaris Lounges don’t quite match the extravagance of Qatar Airways or Singapore Airlines lounges, they still offer a few steps above the standard US airline lounge experience, with a focus on local touches that create a more interesting atmosphere.

In short, United is playing for keeps with Polaris, and that’s great news for flyers who crave comfort and luxury on long international flights.

BUT, to get to those places and people, we’ve gotta fly. That means spending hours in airports, which can be hectic, crowded, and frustrating. Airport food is overpriced and often of questionable quality, seating can be uncomfortable (if you can even find a seat), and drinks can cost more than a night in a hostel. 

There is a solution… Airport Lounges! Once reserved for people flying business or first class, they are now available to a much wider selection of customers.

You can gain access to some lounges by purchasing access on-site, by being loyal to an airline, by joining a lounge network like Priority Pass for a fee, or by having certain credit cards.

One family of credit cards that offers lounge access is American Express. But which American Express cards grant lounge access, how does it work, and where are the lounges? Read on to find out as we explore how lounge access with American Express credit cards works…

Types of American Express Cards

There are many types of American Express cards. Only a few grant access to lounges, and the higher-tier cards come with more perks and higher fees.

The American Express cards with the most extensive lounge access are the American Express Platinum Card and the American Express Business Platinum Card. The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card does alright.

There is another card, but I am only going to mention it once… The Centurion Card. This card is available by invitation only, has a ludicrous initiation fee of $10,000, a hefty annual fee of $5000, and an annual spend of $500K-$1 million!

Let’s take a look at all the different types of Amex cards available, and what they do and do not offer:

Amex Cards With Cashback

American Express cards that give cashback include:

• Blue Cash Preferred Card (personal or business)
• Blue Cash Everyday Card (personal or business)
• Cash Magnet Card
• Plum Business Card

Cashback cards have their place, and can nicely round out your credit card portfolio. BUT, they do not earn Membership Rewards Points or grant you lounge access.

Entry-Level

Entry-level American Express cards include:

• American Express Everyday Card
• American Express Everyday Preferred Card
• American Express Green Card (personal or business)

‘Entry level’ will mean you’ll have low annual fees with these cards, with low spends for your sign-up bonus (SUB). These do not grant you lounge access.

Gold-Level

Gold-level American Express cards include:

• American Express Gold Card
• American Express Gold Business Card

Gold cards offer more perks, higher annual fees, and higher spends for your SUBs. These cards do not grant you lounge access, with a caveat – members in the UK and Canada get Priority Pass Membership with a few free visits (see below).

Platinum-Level

Platinum-level American Express cards include:

• American Express Platinum Card
• American Express Business Platinum Card

Here is where the fun begins! These cards have a higher annual fee ($695 at the time of writing), but the perks can far exceed this value if you take full advantage. These cards do offer lounge access. Details to follow…

Hotel Co-Branded

Hotel Co-branded American Express cards include:

• Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card (personal or business)
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Card
• Hilton Honors American Express Card (personal or business)
• Hilton Honors Aspire American Express Card
• Hilton Honors Surpass American Express Card

Two of these cards offer lounge access via Priority Pass with limitations: the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex Card and the Hilton Honors Business Amex Card.

Airline Co-Branded

Airline Co-branded American Express Cards include:

• Delta Blue American Express Card 
• Delta Gold American Express Card (personal or business)
• Delta Platinum American Express Card (personal or business)
• Delta Reserve American Express Card (personal or business)

The only Delta co-branded card that still gets you lounge access is the Delta Reserve American Express Card, and there are limitations. 

Other Amex Cards

• Lowes American Express Business Card
• Amazon American Express Business Card
• Amazon Prime American Express Business Card

These cards do not grant lounge access.

Which Of These Offer Lounge Access?

SO… in summary, there are FOUR American Express Cards that grant lounge access, and an additional four that give you limited lounge access:

Full Lounge Access

• American Express Platinum Card
• American Express Business Platinum Card
• Delta Reserve American Express Card
• Delta Reserve American Express Business Card

Limited Lounge Access

• American Express Gold Card
• American Express Business Gold Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
• Hilton Hhonors Business American Express Card

The remainder of this article is going to focus on all these.

Categories of Lounges 

American Express Global Lounge Collection

This category includes all lounges to which you have access with the Amex Platinum, and American Express offer a very helpful, searchable database.

While the Amex Global Lounge Collection includes Centurion Lounges and Priority Pass, I am still going to separate those two out below, since some cards only give access to one or both of those lounge types.

Other lounges included in the Amex Global Lounge Collection are Delta Sky Clubs (with restrictions), Lufthansa Lounges, Escape Lounges, Aspire Lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and Centurion Clubs.  

The Amex website claims 1,400+ lounges in their Global Lounge Collection, but new lounges are added every day. Priority Pass alone claims 1,500+ lounges, so Amex’s number is actually way higher.

Centurion Lounges

Amex Platinum Cardholders (personal or business) have access to Centurion Lounges. Delta Reserve Amex cardholders have access to Centurion Lounges when flying on a Delta-operated flight the same day if they booked their ticket using their Amex card.

American Express was the first credit card issuer to develop airport lounges. Prior to this, the only options were airline-specific lounges, with privately-owned lounges popping up here and there.

In 2013, Amex introduced the exclusive, swanky Centurion Lounge and raised the bar. Their first location was in Las Vegas’s Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), and the network has since expanded to 25 locations in 14 states and 11 countries:

Centurion Lounges, especially in the USA, offer a pretty consistent product. The decor is upscale and contemporary, often with local flair.

The menus change with the seasons, and are inspired by collaboration with local chefs. Craft cocktails, top shelf spirits, decent wine and champagne are all included, without the upcharge you find in some lounges.

Most Centurion Lounges offer shower suites, which you can book at the front desk, and some even have spas, where you can choose a complementary 15-minute service.

Amex are working hard to bring their international Centurion Lounges up to the standards they set for themselves here in the US.  

Overcrowding has become a pretty significant issue in the past couple of years. It is common to find a line of people waiting for entry, and to have to add your name to a waiting list. A lot of this is due to the size of the lounge and limited available space in airports. 

This is one of the reasons Amex has started limiting access. In the past, Platinum cardholders could bring two guests at no additional charge; however, last year, that changed.

Now, Platinum cardholders must pay a $50 fee per guest, unless they meet the $75,000 spend. If that spend is met, they can bring two guests for free. Alternatively, anyone you add as an authorized user (for a $195 annual fee) can get in on their own accord. 

Priority Pass Lounges

Priority Pass has an amazing network of lounges all over the world, with over 1,500 locations in 6 continents. 

Many Premium credit cards offer Priority Pass Select membership, and the perks may vary slightly depending on the issuing credit card. Check your particular card for details.

Priority Pass Select is the type of membership that comes with credit cards. If you purchase your membership directly through the Priority Pass website, there are three tiers of membership, and the perks vary slightly.

American Express cards that come with access to Priority Pass include the personal and business Platinum Cards, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card, and the Hilton Honors Business Card. Non-US North American holders of the International Dollar Card (Gold Amex) also have Priority Pass.

Regardless of which card you have, you must enroll in Priority Pass. If Priority Pass is included with your card, you will see it listed under your membership benefits, where you’ll need to click on the provided link and sign up for it. Whether or not you question is Priority Pass worth it – it definitely is when it’s included as a free perk.

You will receive your Priority Pass card and membership packet in the mail; however, you can now access the lounge as soon as your membership is active! 

You can access your digital Priority Pass card by downloading the app and looking under ‘Card‘ or ‘My priority pass‘. Either screenshot the QR code or download the card to your Apple or Google Wallet. If you don’t have a smartphone, you can print out a copy of your digital card to use until your physical card arrives.

Ways to Locate Lounges

With all of these lounges, how do you find one? And furthermore, how do you choose the best one when multiple choices are available? Well, you could wander the airport looking for them, or check out airport maps in person.

Luckily, there are apps and websites to help you find lounges.

The LoungeBuddy app is one of my favorite tools to use while traveling. When you download the app, you can enter your personal information such as frequent flyer status with airlines, credit cards you have, and memberships.

With each trip, you can enter your flight information. Then, when you search the airports you’ll be passing through, LoungeBuddy will give you a list of lounges to which you have access, which ones you can purchase access to, and lounges you cannot visit.

The app tells you what amenities are available, where the lounge is located, and how to access it. I use it every time I travel. Look for it in the app store!

You’ve also got the searchable database I mentioned earlier, or you can text FINDALOUNGE to 86509 to receive a link to download it onto your iPhone or android.

The Priority Pass app also has a search function and gives all the pertinent info about your selected lounge.

Which Cards Give Which Type of Access?

The American Express Platinum Card

In both its personal and business forms, Amex’s Platinum Card grants unlimited access to all of the above lounges for the cardholder, with one exception: Platinum cardholders can only access Delta Sky Club 10 times per calendar year, and only when flying on Delta or Delta-operated flights.

To bring a guest, unless you meet the $75K spend or have added your travel companion as an Authorized User, you’ll have to pay a fee of $50. Simply show up with your card, your ID, and your boarding pass and, if it is not too crowded, you’ll walk right in!

Better yet, as soon as you land, go to your Amex app. Open your Platinum Card, click on the membership icon, and scroll down to ‘Airport Lounge Access‘. You can get a QR code which slightly expedites the process, although it does not save your place in line. 

If it is crowded, the representative will take your phone number and give you an estimate of the wait time. Then, when space is available for you, you’ll get a text and have 15 minutes to get back to the lounge. 

The Delta Reserve American Express Card

Personal or business, the Delta Reserve will get you 15 visits to the Delta Sky Club. Or, if you spend $75,000 in a calendar year, you will receive unlimited visits.

If you are flying on a Delta or Delta-operated flight, your visit is complimentary, and you can bring up to 2 guests for $50 each. If you are flying on a partner airline, you can access the lounge for $50, and if you surpass your 15 visit limit, you can pay $50 to enter.  

Additionally, this card gives you access to Centurion and Escape lounges IF you purchased the flight with this card and the flight is operated by Delta. In this case, you can bring a guest into Centurion for $50 and Escape for whatever the going rate is for that particular lounge.

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card

This one comes with a Priority Pass Select membership (which you must enroll in) and gives you unlimited access to the Priority Pass network of lounges. Most of these lounges allow two guests for free, but a few charge a fee.

The Hilton Honors Business American Express Card

The Hilton Honors Business comes with a Priority Pass Select membership; however, you are limited to 10 free visits. After that, you will be charged the guest fee to access the lounge.

The American Express Gold Card

The American Express Gold Card, personal or business, does not grant US citizens lounge access; however, Canadian and UK cardholders get a free Priority Pass membership but have to pay for lounge access.

You will receive four free visits to Plaza Premium lounges per year. 

Verdict

The American Express Platinum Card is the best card for lounge access, in my opinion. The annual fee of $695 is more than offset by all of the perks and benefits you receive. Personally, I think lounge access alone justifies the fee!

The Delta Reserve Amex Card is competitive as well, if you fly Delta often.

In some cases, the $195 Authorized User fee or the $50 guest fee can also be worth it, when you consider the price of airport food and drinks and the intangible cost of languishing on uncomfortable airport furniture, trying to sleep in chairs or on the floor.

Would you rather have a $15 burger and an $8 beer, or a full buffet with a well-rounded meal, salad, dessert, and a nice glass of wine? No brainer…

With all of this said, Capital One and Chase have recently started opening their own airport lounges, and they are giving Amex Centurion a run for its money! Stay tuned for info about these cards and reviews of their lounges!

With world-class shopping and dining, and the new ‘Orchard’, a 100,000 square foot indoor tropical garden, you could spend hours just exploring the terminal. One alternative provided by Qatar Airways, if your layover is long enough, is to take a tour of Doha.

There is another option! If your ticket meets certain criteria, you can relax like royalty in Qatar Airways Al Safwa First Lounge. This beautiful space is filled with amenities and provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the airport.

Read on to find out how to access this lounge, and why you absolutely should in my Al Safwa Lounge review.

The Flights

I have been in the points game for a while, but had never flown Qatar Airways prior to this trip. I snagged two seats in the Business Class cabin for our return flight from Cairo to Dallas, with an 8-hour layover in Doha.

The flight from Egypt was coded as Business and was not in a QSuite. The flight back to the US was also coded business, but was in a QSuite.

I paid 95K British Airways Avios and around $400 per person for each Business Class ticket, using the British Airways site to book. You can book directly on the Qatar Airways site, or find your flight via British Airways, like I did.

I hear that you can find flights on the American Airlines site (Qatar is part of the Oneworld Alliance), but I have not been able to!

Have you heard of people being “Qatared“? This is something the airline is notorious for…

People will book a QSuite and, a few weeks before their flight, they receive notice that there has been an aircraft change, and that the new equipment doesn’t have QSuites. This can result in significant disappointment and, sometimes, even anger.

A few weeks before our trip, we were “Reverse Qatared”! On our flight from Egypt, due to an aircraft change, our normal Business Class seats became QSuites!

Now, if you are flying QSuites to or from Doha on a long haul flight, this is considered Business Class and will not get you access to this lounge; however, flying QSuites from another country in the Middle East is considered First Class and will give you access to Al Safwa!

The first leg of our flight was about 3 hours, followed by about 8 hours in Doha, then a 15-hour flight to Dallas. This may sound like a nightmare to some, but to me, it was a dream!

The first leg of our flight was fantastic and, when we disembarked, there was a special bus waiting for passengers in the premium cabin. This shuttle bus had swiveling leather chairs and only seated about 15 people.

I thought we were fancy, but the sheik sitting in front of us was picked up in a black four-door Audi A7 sedan.

Finding and Accessing the Lounge

We walked into the atrium at Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha, Qatar and were greeted by a giant yellow teddy bear, who keeps an eye on the atrium of the main terminal. That teddy bear is actually a 20-ton cast bronze sculpture worth millions, created by Urs Fischer, a visual artist based out of New York!

The airport is incredibly easy to navigate, and finding the lounges is a breeze. There is a ton of clearly marked signage.

If you are flying Qatar Airways Business Class, you can use the Al Mourjan Lounge, aka The Garden, which I am sure is perfectly lovely. However, if you meet one of the following criteria, you have access to Al Safwa First Lounge!

You may access this lounge if you are flying:

• In the First Class cabin on Qatar Airways or any of its OneWorld Partners.
• Business Class on Qatar Airways and are a platinum-level Privilege Club member.
• Business class on Qatar Airways and pay a hefty fee. At the time of writing, that is about $165 (USD).

To the right of the yellow bear, we noticed a sign for Al Safwa First Lounge. A representative was waiting at the bottom of the escalator. She checked our boarding passes and granted us access. We proceeded up the escalator to the lounge lobby, where we were checked in.

We were transiting through Doha. If you are departing from Doha, you have a whole different experience waiting for you!

First and Business Class Check-in at Hamad International Airport

When you are flying Qatar Airways First or Business Class originating in Doha, or if you opt to leave the airport on your layover and see the city, you can enter the terminal at Hamad International Airport through the first set of doors, clearly marked “Qatar Airways First & Business Class”. This will lead you to the dedicated portion of the terminal for checking into their premium cabins.

The color scheme is similar to what you’ll find in the lounge, and check-in areas for Business and First Class are clearly marked. You will be led to a private desk, where you’ll be given a cool towel and a special luggage tag while you check in.

After you’ve checked in, you will be directed to a dedicated customs and immigrations line, which exits right next to the escalator to Al Safwa First Lounge. Say hi to the giant bear on your way up!

The Lounge

One of the very friendly, extremely respectful attendants (we will call her Aisha) gave us a tour of the lounge. She led us down a cavernous hallway which felt more like a museum than an airport lounge. We later learned that the decor of this lounge was actually patterned after the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha.

I want to take a moment here to share how stunning this space actually was. With soaring ceilings and a muted color palette reminiscent of the desert, the lounge felt opulent and serene. Hues of tan, ecru, browns, and ivory were punctuated by pops of color in the form of purple orchids and stunning abstract paintings adorning the walls.

The lighting was subtle, warm, and somewhat dim. The warmth of the lighting and colors balanced the coolness of the hard surfaces and made the massive space feel almost cozy.

I felt the stress of the long journey melt away as I looked around me and sighed. Aisha let us through the atrium, pointing out a few works of Islamic art in display cabinets on either wall. There was a large fountain, which reminded me of a desert oasis, dominating the central space. The sound of flowing water enhanced the peaceful ambiance.

Several seating areas were scattered throughout the main atrium, mostly in groupings of two or four. One area, which was our favorite, had individual pods with comfy chairs and ottomans.

There was even a terrace that opened up to the main terminal and had lots of seating and a self-serve bar.

It was around midnight when we arrived, so most of the seating areas were empty, and the lounge was not crowded at all. It can get a little busy early in the morning and later in the evening, but I cannot imagine this space ever feeling crowded.

The lounge has lots of signage for all of the restaurants and amenities, and was very easy to navigate.

Dining

Several options were available for dining. The main dining room had a massive bar as its centerpiece, and numerous tables in different configurations, with seating for around 250 people.

The bistro is a self-service area with a buffet, which also has a few made-to-order items. When we visited, offerings included sushi, sandwiches, salads, desserts, and beverages.

The menu changes periodically. You can see the current version here:

The selection of alcoholic beverages was fantastic! Excellent wines, champagnes, and whiskeys, with your basic classic cocktails available to order.

Unfortunately (or fortunately), they had fed us so well on the flight that we were not hungry for dinner; however, we did enjoy a sumptuous breakfast in the main dining room (next to a table full of sheiks).

The coffee was beautiful – I had a flat white and my husband had a double espresso. Our meals were accompanied by croissants and fresh-squeezed juices.

I had the Balaleet, which consists of an omelet over vermicelli and topped with almonds, and my husband had the Eggs Royale, a slight variation on Eggs Benedict which had salmon and a bagel.

Private Rooms

Probably about 30 minutes after we had settled into our semi-private pods, one of the male staff members approached my husband to let him know that a private room was available if we wanted to rest.

We had not asked for a room and didn’t even realize they were an option! Now that is service!

He led us into what was essentially a small hotel room, equipped with everything you might possibly need for a quick overnight stay. There were two single beds and a luxurious bathroom furnished with Diptyque Paris amenities, a lovely shower, and fluffy robes. We showered and napped.

There are twelve private rooms, four with two beds and the rest with one. If you want to reserve a room, sign up at the reception desk in the spa as soon as you arrive – the rooms are first come, first served.

When your room is ready, they issue you a key, so you can come and go as you please. Rooms are available to guests staying at least four hours, and you can keep them for up to six hours.

Other Amenities

The lounge has a full spa, where you can have treatments at a cost. We did not partake, but we will next time! Check out the spa menu here:

If you don’t have enough time or cannot get a private room, showers are available in the spa’s locker rooms. Just ask at the desk! They provide toiletry kits in case you need them, and clean fluffy towels.

There is a large and well-equipped children’s play area, with toys for the little ones, and foosball and video games for the older ones.

We have passed that phase of life (aaaah, the empty nest), so we did not make use of those areas. However, this could be a game changer for travelers with small children!

The lounge even has a dedicated duty-free shopping area, so you can quickly browse and make your purchases without wasting a lot of time in line.

Other amenities include a very elegant, sophisticated cigar bar/smoking room, with plush leather couches and good ventilation, a business center, and semi-private living rooms you can reserve, which have couches and TVs.

In Summary

The Al Safwa First Lounge is the best airport lounge I have ever been to! Now, I have not been to La Premiere at Charles de Gualle yet, but I have been to many fantastic lounges.

The Singapore Suites Lounge at Changi Airport in Singapore is amazing, and Emirates Lounges never disappoint. But this lounge is on a different level.

The lounge was not crowded, which lent an air of exclusivity. The decor was understated and sophisticated, and the service was impeccable. Every detail came together to make us feel comfortable, relaxed, and special.

The overall vibe was unpretentious elegance and serenity. I only wish we had been hungrier, so we could have experienced more of the cuisine!

Luckily, by the time we boarded our flight to Dallas and settled into our QSuites, we had developed an appetite! Stay tuned to read about our experience!

If you’d like to read about our trip to Morocco and Egypt, check out my blog at www.jenniferspath.org.

Verdict

Al Safwa First Lounge is one of the best airport lounges in the world, located in one of the best airports in the world. If your travels take you to or through Qatar, book a long layover and live like a sheik!

Once we started planning the trip, we decided very quickly that we would take full advantage of her priority pass, which gives full access for her and a guest to a number of airport lounges worldwide!

As we were flying out from Birmingham airport, we had a choice of three lounges.

We were told they can get busy, so it’s best to book in advance, but we decided to risk it and had no trouble getting in or finding space.

Where to find the No. 1 VIP Lounge

We decided to opt for the No. 1 Lounge, which is situated between WHSmith and Factory, (not as it says on the priority pass directions, between WHSmith and JD).

It’s right alongside the toilets also, which incidentally are the toilets you use whilst you are in the lounge, for me this was the first (and only real) downside. The toilets were fine, clean enough and handily located just outside the lounge, but I would have expected a separate toilet, just for lounge guests, actually as part of the lounge itself. 

Inside the No. 1 VIP Lounge

We arrived to the desk at the entrance and a friendly staff member asked first if we had booked before heading inside to check out the availability, he came quickly back saying he could “squeeze us in”.

There were in fact lots of seats inside, so we had no trouble finding somewhere to sit, and in fact had a choice of tables! This perhaps adds to the exclusivity of the place, or certainly the feeling of exclusivity! I imagine they never fully fill the space to capacity, so as to maintain the tranquil feel of the lounge and the feeling that you are truly having a more special experience.

The lounge was impressive, with an expanse of tables for diners, plus a more relaxed seating area located near the windows overlooking the runway (as many lounges offer).

This proved popular for those traveling with children, who could sit and watch the planes as they taxied to and from the runway. One such family we saw, were traveling with children who were dressed as a pilot and flight attendant and were thoroughly enjoying the experience inside the lounge!

There was also a mezzanine floor above, open when we arrived, but which was closed off at some point during our visit. There are also a number of more private rooms available at the No. 1 lounge at Birmingham Airport, which are more tucked away than the main areas and include a meeting room and a TV room. These are fairly small rooms, with more of a living room feel to them. 

Eating in the No. 1 Lounge

Having selected our seats at a comfy table, along the wall with bench or booth style seating, we set about investigating the food on offer.

Never ones to be shy when it comes to eating, we both decided to go for the cooked breakfast which was laid out in a buffet-style hotel breakfast. As a vegetarian I was easily able to fill up my plate with a hearty breakfast of scrambled eggs, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes and beans, before popping back to see what sweet treats were available.

If you prefer a lighter breakfast there was also a range of cereals, yoghurt, fruit and pastries, which in the interest of conducting a thorough review, we had to sample!

We both agreed that the croissants on offer were delicious, fresh and warm they were gorgeously melt in the mouth and buttery, so a 10 out of 10 on that front.

For drinks, we were also spoilt for choice, with a well-stocked bar supplying a range of drinks including wines and beers as well as soft drinks.

The bar is staffed, and we were greeted by a friendly server who was happy to offer advice on the range of drinks available, as well as entertaining our crazy photo taking (all in the interest of a good review of course!)

There was, of course, a coffee machine, and a variety of teas as well as fruit juices and water that you could help yourself to next to the breakfast offering. After having downed our water bottles ahead of security, we were happy to be able to top these up with fresh lemon infused water to take on our flight with us.

Whilst we were there, there was a changeover in the food, as it was approaching lunchtime, which saw what my kids would call a ‘picky lunch’ with a range of salads, cheeses and meats, as well as a mixture of hot selections replacing the cooked breakfast under the hot plate.

The food available throughout was plentiful, with items being regularly restocked to ensure everything was always available to the guests.

Atmosphere inside the No. 1 Lounge

We found the atmosphere just right in the No. 1 Lounge, there was music playing gently in the background, a quiet buzz and excitement in the air, without feeling the noisy and sometimes chaotic sense that you get out in the main airport – something that is often reserved especially for Birmingham Airport!

This allowed us to fully relax and get ourselves well and truly into holiday mode before we set off!

I was also interested to notice the people around us, as I had a preconceived idea that the lounge would be full of ‘business types’ or perhaps rather fancy people, but actually our fellow lounge goers were much like us and included a real mix of people, such as grandparents with their grandchildren, solo travelers and couples looking to treat themselves to a special start to their trip.

All in all adding to the relaxed and friendly atmosphere that proved a great way to begin our three day vacation.

For the conscientious traveller it is worth noting there is a screen displaying all the flight and boarding information just to the left of the bar, so it is easy to keep track of where your gate is and when it is time to board.

How to gain lounge access

There are a couple of ways you can gain access to the lounges. Firstly, of course you can book and pay for your access at roughly £28 per head, if you plan to stay there for enough time and eat and drink, it may well cost you less than doing the same in one of the other public bars or restaurants within the airport.

You can also purchase a priority pass. This was our method of entry, which starts at £229 per year (for 10 visits) and gains access for you and one guest throughout the year. So if you travel a lot it can definitely be worth the upfront cost – if you travel even more then opting for the £419 package could be even more worthwhile as it offers unlimited visits.

The priority pass also comes free as standard with a range of credit cards including the American Express Platinum Card, which will gain you world-wide unlimited lounge access for you and a guest for one year and the American Express preferred rewards gold card, which offers customers a free four visit priority pass, perfect for the less frequent flyers.

It is worth remembering that having a priority pass doesn’t automatically gain you access to the lounges as they operate on a first come first serve basis, so you may still be turned away at busy times. That being said, it is easy to see why many people think getting hold of a Priority Pass is worth it.

To guarantee entry you need to book in advance (usually at a cost of £6 per person in the UK) for your desired time slot.

The No.1 Lounge at Birmingham Airport definitely added to our overall travel experience, making us feel relaxed and like we had enjoyed a bit of a special experience.

As a budget traveller and someone who doesn’t like to spend money unnecessarily, would I use the lounges again, absolutely! But I will be utilizing one of the ways listed above to be sure I am getting the best deal.