Airport lounges are not all created equally. In fact, as part of our hospitality studies, it’s interesting to learn about the differences between these lounges and what separates the good from the exceptional. We take a look at 3 of the most exquisite airport lounges across the globe to see what it takes to impress wealthy travellers and inspire hoteliers to offer the same levels of luxury and service in their hospitality establishments.

 

Turkish Airlines CIP Lounge, Istanbul

Turkish Airlines CIP Lounge at the Ataturk Airport offers Turkish hospitality at its finest, in a relaxing atmosphere that is charming and beautiful. In fact, think of this lounge as your luxurious living room or hotel suite at the airport. The lounge boasts a library, pool tables, grand piano and private sleeping rooms. The bedrooms come with swanky showers, gorgeous amenity kits and TV’s to enjoy if you can’t catch a few winks. Families can also make use of the dedicated playroom and private infant room or take in a game of pool. The cuisine is outstanding, with a variety of hot and cold mezze platters on offer, a Turkish pizza station and a separate fruit and drinks station offering nothing but the finest.

Etihad’s Diamond First Class Lounge at Abu Dhabi airport

Not unlike a small boutique hotel, Etihad Airways have gone the extra mile in providing complete and utter relaxation at their Diamond First Class lounge in Abu Dhabi. A family room offers children of all ages plenty of entertainment opportunities to enjoy, whilst mom and dad can indulge in a complimentary spa treatment at the prestigious Six Senses spa. And parents need not worry about their children – there’s even a personal nanny service available to care for them whilst you’re at the spa. And if you’re feeling a little peckish, indulge in some French champagne from the champagne bar, or take a seat at the Chef’s Table and indulge in some of the finest gourmet foods you could dream of. Finally, before you board your connecting flight, send your clothes off for a press and have your shoes shined so that you never look dishevelled or jet lagged on your journey again.

Virgin Atlantic First Class lounge at JFK Airport, New York

New York has a style of its own. So it’s only natural then that Virgin Atlantics First Class Lounge at JFK Airport should be an extension of the style and frivolity that New York is so famous for. Step into a space that oozes uptown style complete with gold ceilings, a giant sofa made of red balls, a pool table, spa and cocktail menu to die for. If you’re not feeling at all playful, why not make use of the internet bar to crack on with some work, or enjoy the in-house treatment menu from the spa which boasts Dr Hauschka products. And if a spa treatment makes you feel sleepy, try out the person-sized cavities in the walls which are actually wool-lined private sleeping capsules where you can grab a pair of complimentary PJs and catch a few Z’s. Finally, once awake and before you head on to your next flight, take advantage of the New York hairstylist Bumble & Bumble and have your lovely locks styled so that you look your best when you step on board your flight.

With such incredible lounges to enjoy, how can hoteliers match or better these offerings in their establishments? Airport lounges teach us lessons about convenience, modern style and facilities, pampering and luxurious amenities and incredible detail-oriented service…lessons many hoteliers can learn from and take back to their hotels.

If you have any questions for our lecturers or students, why not drop us a line in the comments section below, or alternatively, email us on the following email address: info@dev.brokenpony.club

Sources: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/janice-s-lintz/12-reasons-why-the-turkis_b_7308256.html; http://www.etihad.com/en-us/experience-etihad/lounges/first-and-business-class-lounges/; http://www.virgin-atlantic.com/us/en/travel-information/airport-guides/jfk/clubhouse.html; http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-2637376/The-five-luxurious-airport-lounges-world.html and http://www.details.com/story/best-airline-lounges-spas)