One of the Biggest Secrets in Travel

Submitted by Kate at Trip Extras on July 01, 2008

OK so I’m an average Joe economy traveller. Whichever airline offers the cheapest ticket and I’m theirs. So I’ve always thought those ‘executive lounges’ in airports are exactly that – just for business executives or first class passengers. And you’ve probably assumed the same. But it’s not so. Anyone can check into the executive airport lounge (it doesn’t matter what class or which airline you’re travelling with) and get the VIP treatment. What a way to start your trip! You can even help yourself to free drinks (yes this means alcohol!) and chill out before your flight. I have to say it beats paying expensive airport prices for drinks at the often overcrowded café!

I’ve only been to the Dubai VIP airport lounge (below) which was a real treat and a godsend when my flight was delayed by an hour.

So if you want to avoid the crowds and lack of seating like this…then I would recommend giving a VIP airport lounge a go!

Busy Airport

Here are the 10 most popular airports for VIP airport lounges worldwide…

1. London Heathrow – Holideck Lounge - Terminal 4

2. Manchester International – The Bollin Lounge - Terminal 1

3. London Gatwick – The Aviance Lounge - North Terminal

4. Dubai International – DCA Lounge - Terminal 1

5. Glasgow International – Sky Lounge

6. Birmingham International - Servisair Lounge - Terminal 1

7. Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International - Bidair Lounge

8. Tenerife South - Sala Montaa Roja

9. Malaga - Sala Vip Europa

10. New York - Newark - Continental Presidents Club

Facts & Figures:

Most popular lounges are based on the most bookings in 07/08.
London Heathrow is the most popular airport with bookings at Heathrow lounges currently accounting for 26% of all lounge bookings.
Lounge bookings have increased by 650% over the last 3 years.
It is estimated that only 1% of holiday makers use VIP airport lounges, largely due to a lack of knowledge that the service exists and is available to all travellers.

Source Lounge Pass 2008

Find out more about any of the VIP airport lounges above and others worldwide at Trip Extras.

Stumble it!