Airport Lounges – It’s all about choice

Many of our members have airport lounge access as part of their frequent flyer status or lounge membership program. For others, it only comes when they fly business or first class. When the occasion rises, questions are often asked about the lounge facilities on offer and if there is a choice, what’s the best?

Hi – we are traveling first time business class on Cathay to Hong Kong. Do I need to book for a shower in advance or is it just first come first served? I see there are less showers in the “wing” as they are doing refurbishments….Also which is best lounge to use in HK when we arrive – there seems to be 3.

The first thing to look at is what lounges are available. When it comes to this, who you’re flying with and what partnerships they have can be handy. Most airlines offer lounge access to their lounge for their business class customers. If they don’t have a lounge in the airport from which the flight leaves, a lounge run by a third party will be made available. On check in you will be given an invitation to the lounge from the airline operating the service. But your choice may go beyond just the airlines lounges you’re flying with.

One of the benefits of flying a One World alliance airline in the pointy end is often overlooked. You can access any One World business lounge (or any first lounge if flying First) that is open and not operated under contract by a third party, if your ticket is in Business or First and marketed/operated by a One World member. In the case of Hong Kong, that means more than just the numerous Cathay Business lounges are on offer to the One World Business Class passenger.

So how do you find out what is available? One World has a very good lounge finder on their website to solve that problem worldwide. Key in the airport, and you will be given a list of lounge choices and any special conditions for entry. The website also provides details on operating hours and facilities such as showers etc.

With changes happening on regular basis (Qantas opened their new Hong Kong Lounge last month), our members are always quick to offer an up to date assessment on what may be the best choice

The Cathay lounges are much of a muchness. Unless you need something specific go to the lounge closest to your gate.

Doing a bit of research before you fly can make the journey so much more comfortable, you might even find out there is an arrivals lounge on offer to freshen up in after the journey. With the rules changing frequently and more exceptions added as new airlines join an alliance, it certainly pays to check.

Do you have a preference for a particular lounge in Hong Kong? Why not join the conversation HERE.

Staff Writers