Where to Find Luxury in the Airport
April 25, 2024
Going to the airport can make even the most frequent flier jaded. Many of us can feel stressed between the crowds, delays and general airport hassle until we arrive at our destination. That’s why it’s important to find moments for luxury, peace and relaxation, so you can disembark in the right mindset.
With that in mind, here are our top three places in airports where well-heeled flyers can enjoy five-star wellness treatments, meals from top-rated chefs and even private chauffeurs who can ferry you directly to your flight.
Airport Spas
Bid the stress of travel au revoir with a relaxing and rejuvenating airport spa treatment. Spas are available in various world-class airports, providing a reprieve from the stress of air travel.
Airport spa treatments, such as massages or facials, are a great way to spend a layover or kill time following a flight delay or gate change. Massage therapy is shown to help relieve headaches, anxiety, nerve pain and soft tissue strains or injuries, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you’re returning from an active multi-generational vacation or work retreat, signing up for a massage can help ensure you return home well-rested.
At the same time, flying is hard on your skin, resulting in dry, dull features. Purchasing a rejuvenating facial before boarding can brighten skin, reduce irritation and leave you feeling fresh.
Find airport spas in first-class lounges, such as those offered by Qantas in Melbourne and Sydney — whose flight-themed services include facials, as well as upper body and stone back massages — and the Chase Sapphire network of lounges available domestically and internationally, such as its Hong Kong lounge by The Club. The Chase Sapphire Lounge in Hong Kong offers a spacious and relaxing getaway from the main terminal with multiple seating options designed to help you stay plugged in to the office or unwind during a long travel day, as well as a full bar and restaurants. Many of these services are complimentary for first-class passengers, so consult your airline or credit card provider to determine what options are available on your next trip.
Alternatively, the Changi Lounge at the Jewel Changi Airport in Singapore offers an exclusive and comfortable environment with three-hour lounge packages for guests. During that time, lite package guests can enjoy a self-service free flow snack bar. With the classic package, food options get upgraded to include one hot meal and beer. The premium package, meanwhile, which only costs $50 SD per adult, includes all the above and use of their rejuvenating shower facilities. If you want to make up for jet lag with a quick-shut eye, take advantage of their nap pods. These high-tech pods deliver a sensory wake-up through programmable lights, music and vibration. If you need to pencil in a quick business discussion, two-hour private meeting rooms are available with free parking for guests.
First-Class Lounges
Looking for a way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the terminals and enjoy a delicious meal or libation? Leave it all behind by stepping into the elevated experience of an upscale airport lounge.
While first-class lounge experiences remain a focus for major airlines, with Delta announcing three new premium lounges throughout 2024 in the John F. Kennedy (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX) and Boston Logan (BOS) international airports, the examples below offer rare exclusivity.
Tucked away in Terminal B at New York-LaGuardia (LGA), Reserve Suites by Chase offers three private bookable rooms — the smallest boasting a four-person capacity for intimate gatherings at $2,200 with two eight-person options costing $3,000. Each comes with a dedicated attendant, signature welcome caviar service, wine list and a la carte menu, among other amenities.
If you’re looking for an experience that lets you rub elbows with your fellow passengers, head for the Lufthansa First Class Terminal at the Frankfurt International Airport (FRA) in Germany. This 20,000-square-foot terminal is an independent facility devoted to passengers traveling international first class. Inside, guests can take advantage of private nap pods, shower suites with soaking tubs, an extensive dining selection and chauffeured rides to the plane.
Private Terminals
If you read about the Lufthansa First Class Terminal but wish to avoid the public airport in its entirety, PS, a private commercial terminal service formerly known as The Private Suite, offers fliers at LAX and the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) white-glove service before and after their flights.
PS offers three different experiences, from a respite for solo travelers and small groups in its Salon — a lounge that feels like a private members club — to more exclusive offerings. The Private Suite, as implied by the name, provides dedicated staff for chef-prepared meals, unlimited amenities and spa services, as well as a private car to take you to and from the airport. If you’re seeking “head-of-state style treatment” on a domestic return flight, then PS Direct is for you.
PS Direct will send a private BMW chauffeur from the aircraft to your home or hotel, quickly gathering your luggage and seamlessly transferring you to your destination. This option offers complete privacy, and you can still enjoy complimentary chef-prepared meals on the way. PS will add private terminals at Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) and Miami International (MIA) airports in 2024.
Private terminals and fixed-based operators (FBOs) like PS are available worldwide, so elevate your trip by finding ways to depart or arrive through one of these upscale facilities when planning your next journey.
No matter what kinds of luxury you find in your travel experience, you don’t want to skimp on your travel insurance. Even with a restorative spa treatment or exclusive dining experience in a private lounge, accidents, illnesses and other emergencies are a fact of life. Minor situations can feel intense and stressful when you’re away from home and outside of your usual resources. Before embarking on your next journey, consult your Gallagher Private Client advisor to ensure you’re carrying the right coverage to help mitigate your travel risks. This way, you can travel confidently and with peace of mind, knowing any issues you encounter will be promptly handled.