I previously blogged about there being levels to everything and if you know, you know: Airport lounges are the move to level up your airport and travel experience!
First off, I didn’t even know airport lounges existed for many of the years I traveled before my grand exit abroad, but once I found out…sheesh. My whole travel game got upgraded real quick. #Levels
Fortunately, before I embarked on my official journey abroad in 2017, I learned about airport lounges. And I’ve really been pleased with having access to airport lounges all around the world. This perk is truly a game-changer!
So what is an airport lounge?
“An airport lounge is a facility operated at many airports. Airport lounges offer, for selected passengers, comforts beyond those afforded in the airport terminal itself, such as more comfortable seating, quieter environments, and often better access to customer service representatives.”
-Wikipedia (emphasis added)
Enjoy a look inside an airport lounge I visited at Boryspil International Airport in Kiev, Ukraine. 👀
And who are “selected passengers”?!
I am (🙋🏾♀️), and you can be too! I have airport lounge access through one of my credit cards, which includes “Priority Pass” membership. This gives me access to more than 1,400 airport lounges and other airport amenities worldwide.
Choosing the right “travel card” is clutch in real life. However, having a credit card is not necessary. You can purchase Priority Pass access directly on its site, and many lounges have a “reasonable” fee that you can pay for access.
What are some of the "comforts beyond…"?
Most lounges have complimentary WiFi, refreshments (often buffet style), and comfortable seating / lounging as the basic amenities. Some even have showers, sleeping areas, designated business working areas, full service bars, televisions, and more.
For example, in 2020, I had an especially long and overnight layover in Kiev, Ukraine. I considered going out for a night on the town to explore Kiev but was completely tired and needed to reset. Not a problem. I had access to several airport lounges in Kiev, including one that was 24 hours and even had showers.
Did you know people are taking whole showers at the airport?! Airport lounges can be somewhat inconspicuous or hidden, but now you know. And if you know, you know.
Another great perk is that the Priority Pass access normally permits me to bring a guest. This is a big plus when traveling with a companion. Each lounge has its own rules, and in some cases, you may be able to bring more than one guest and/or children.
If you are a frequent traveler or like to #TravelLuxe, I highly recommend you level up and get into these airport lounges.
See Yaa, at an airport lounge! #LevelUp #TravelLuxe