Jetting off in style: top airport lounges around the world

02 June 2025

For many of us, airports are just a stepping stone in the travel process. But what if that stepping stone became a destination in its own right? Think chic designs, gourmet dining that rivals your favourite restaurant, and tranquillity that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of travel. Premium airport lounges offer travellers a slice of luxury before their journeys even begin, turning long layovers or pre-flight waits into something to savour. Whether you’re seeking five-star service, seamless privacy, or just a moment to breathe, these lounges redefine the art of travel so read on to discover our top pics.

Jetting off in style: top airport lounges around the world

Plaza Premium Lounges

When extraordinary comfort and exceptional service are the order of the day, Plaza Premium Lounges are in a league of their own. Crowned the ‘World's Best Independent Airport Lounge’ operator for the eighth consecutive year in 2024, Plaza Premium knows how to deliver excellence. Operating across 80 airports in 30 countries, these lounges are a sanctuary for savvy travellers.

Take London’s Heathrow Airport, for instance, where Plaza Premium has a lounge waiting to welcome you at every terminal. Each one is thoughtfully designed, from sleek interiors to cosy seating, combining style and serenity. If you’re flying from Singapore, Dubai, or Rome, their lounges continue to set the standard, with spaces tailored to ensure a seamless start to your adventure. Gourmet dining, crafted cocktails, and dedicated workspaces mean there’s something for everyone.

Aether Private Terminal, Manchester

What if you could sidestep the crowds entirely? Aether Private Terminal at Manchester Airport offers an experience unlike any other. This isn’t just a lounge; it’s an invitation to travel in absolute privacy and comfort. Aether combines bespoke service with sheer convenience, creating a haven.

Here, you can enjoy seamless check-in away from the main terminal, private security clearance, and chauffeur-driven service direct to your aircraft. Fine dining is the order of the day, with menus carefully curated by celebrated chef Adam Reid. Aether transforms the often-hectic process of air travel into something utterly stress-free and luxurious. Whether you’re flying outbound or arriving back in the UK, this exclusive space makes every moment effortless.

No1 Lounges

For travellers heading through London Heathrow or Gatwick, the award-winning No1 Lounges are a must-visit. With their third consecutive win as the ‘World’s Leading Airport Lounge’ at the World Travel Awards, they’ve mastered the art of balancing sophistication with comfort. Expect interiors designed to cocoon you in calm, the buffet offers a delightful combination of fresh, hearty dishes and lighter choices, and the bar selection includes everything from premium wines to delectable cocktails. It’s all about creating a relaxing experience tailored to your needs, with attentive staff ready to ensure your time here runs as smoothly as your onward travel.

VIP Lounge Punta Cana

If there’s one place that perfectly encapsulates luxury and relaxation, it’s the VIP Lounge in Terminal B2 of Punta Cana International Airport. This extraordinary space blends modern indulgence with the laid-back charm of the Dominican Republic. Where else can you lounge poolside while waiting for your flight? This lounge boasts an outdoor swimming pool, so you can soak up the last rays of sun or refresh with a quick dip before take-off. Inside, the experience continues, with spacious, tranquil areas to unwind, Caribbean-inspired décor, and delicious food and drink options that celebrate local flavours. It’s about celebrating the destination even as you prepare to leave it.

3 different ways to experience Malta

09 October 2026

A short break to Malta can look very different depending on how you like to travel. You could check into a five-star hotel and build your days around art, architecture, and Michelin-starred dining. You could slow everything down, wandering through neighbourhoods, stopping for pastizz, and exploring historic towns. Or you could use Valletta as a base for hiking, kayaking, diving, and days spent discovering Malta’s coastline. Here are three ways to make a short break in Malta completely your own.

The perfect guide to a Valletta city break

09 October 2026

For a city break with plenty to see, eat, and experience, Valletta makes a wonderful choice. Malta’s compact capital is easy to explore on foot, with honey-coloured streets leading to grand palaces, historic churches, and harbour viewpoints. From its impressive fortifications to its lively restaurant scene, Valletta brings together centuries of history and a distinctly Mediterranean way of life, making it ideal for visitors who want more from a short break than simply sightseeing.

Travel Counsellors experience the magic of Bhutan

02 October 2026

Bhutan offers a rare sense of stepping away from the familiar. On a recent eight-night journey, a group of Travel Counsellors travelled from Thimphu to Gangtey, Punakha, and Paro, experiencing mountain passes, riverside valleys, ancient monasteries, local communities, and peaceful highland landscapes along the way. The itinerary combined significant landmarks with hands-on experiences and quieter moments, offering a thoughtful introduction to a country that still feels wonderfully untouched.

Jetting off in style: top airport lounges around the world

3 different ways to experience Malta

The perfect guide to a Valletta city break

Travel Counsellors experience the magic of Bhutan

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