10 of the world’s best airport lounges

If you think airports are all hustle and bustle, with nothing but queues for check-in desks, security points and even just to get a latte, then we’ve got news for you 😀

Check into an airport lounge, stat.

Luxe and self-indulgent worlds hidden inside most airports around the world, there are many you can access even without a pricey first-class ticket, celebrity status, or wicked charm.

Here are 10 of the best airport lounges and what it takes to get to the other side of the frosted glass.

Read more: 5 must-have apps for lastminute travellers

1. Qantas First-Class Lounge, Sydney International Airport

Maybe it’s the funky interior designed by Aussie Marc Newson or the 10,000 oxygen-pumping plants. But it’s probably the French bubbly and coffee sans queues that makes the Qantas First-Class Lounge at Sydney International a winner in our books.

You’ll need to be a first-class passenger, Platinum frequent flyer, or Oneworld member to get in.

2. Plaza Premium Lounge, Departures, Terminal 2A, London Heathrow

Yikes, Heathrow! Who doesn’t need time out?

Check out the winner of SKYTRAX’s World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge, the Plaza Premium Lounge; a sleek hideout where you can get a massage or a mini manicure. It’s $68 for a day pass through Loungebuddy.

3. The Wing by Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong

The Wing by Cathay Pacific is in Hong Kong International Airport and you should head straight for the Noodle Bar. Slurp up dan dan noodles and dine on dumplings while you sip premium champagne. Bliss!

The Wing is accessible to first and business-class passengers, selected Marco Polo Club members and Oneworld frequent flyers.

4. American Airlines Admirals Club, Terminal 2, Narita Airport, Toyko

The American Airlines Admirals Club at Narita Airport offers showers for freshening up, as well as self-serve food and drink, which is handy if you need to grab a snack or fix yourself a strong drink before a long flight. Score access with a day pass.

5. Minute Suites, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport, United States

Catch some Zs or your fave Netflix series in the comfort of a daybed at Minute Suites in Atlanta. Available for hire by the hour or overnight, they’re juuust the thing for an extended layover. You can get in with a Priority Pass or by reserving one online.

6. Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York City

Sink a billiard ball while you down a Beyond Burger with the lot or just hobnob with other elite-status passengers in this lounge that oozes uptown style. When it’s not crowded, the average Virgin Atlantic passenger can score a day pass.

7. British Airways Galleries Lounge, Terminal 5, Heathrow, London

A stress-busting mini-treatment while you wait for your flight? Yes, please! Totally unwind in the ELEMIS Travel Spa at the British Airways Galleries Lounge in Heathrow. There’s fine wine and “nicely chilled” champagne available too.

Accessible to business-class passengers.

8. Etihad First Class Lounge, Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi

Lap up the high life at the Etihad First Class Lounge in Abu Dhabi. Get a chauffeured airport transfer, then indulge at the champagne bar or relax at the super-luxe Six Senses spa.

Admission is available to first-class fliers, Platinum members or guests of The Residence can pay to enter some of the Etihad lounges.

9. Qantas First Class Lounge, Changi Airport, Singapore

The Qantas First Class Lounge at Changi Airport is one fine-dining destination you’ve GOT to visit. Restaurateur Neil Perry has crafted the menu, which features crayfish and smoked duck breast (yuuuum). Plus there are luxury workspaces to help you keep on top of that billion-dollar deal you’re on your way to seal 😎

Available to first-class passengers of Qantas and other Oneworld airlines, as well as Platinum Qantas Frequent Flyers and Emerald Oneworld frequent flyers.

10. Air France La Premiere Lounge, Charles De Gaulle Airport, Paris

Full of European flair, Air France’s La Premiere Lounge at Charles De Gaulle Airport is just the place to enjoy a vino. Make sure you grab a bite, too – the menu is curated by legendary chef Alain Ducasse. It’s oh-so-French, oh-so-chic.

Available to first-class passengers.

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