In one of my last posts, I wrote about the new trend in luxury travel today: airport first class lounges. I said that I would write more about the different first class lounges and the amenities they offer. As promised, here’s the first of the series.
For my first post about first class lounges, I’m going to start with the one that was voted the best first class lounge for 2007 by Skytrax: the Thai Airways Royal First Lounge at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand. This ultimate status symbol of prestige and exclusivity caters primarily to first class passengers of Thai Airways flights or members of the international Star Alliance. It’s located at the Concourse D in Level 3 of the airport, with 1,400 square meters allocated to accommodate 174 first class passengers at one time.
For travelers on business, the lounge has a business center with services like phones, fax, wi-fi internet, printers, etc. Passengers will find themselves entertained with TVs, newspapers and magazines. Other special facilities include an exclusive music room, cigar and smoking rooms, a mini-library and private corners for those who want some privacy. And for the ultimate in relaxation, there are slumber rooms for those who want to catch a few winks before their flight. Restrooms are en suite, including four luxury shower rooms for travelers in need of freshening up.
Hungry? There’s an A la Carte dining room that serves a full range of meals and drinks. Even premium alcoholic drinks are free, such as cognac and whiskey. Probably the best pleaser, however, is the Royal Orchid Spa at the opposite end of the First Class Lounge. Again, the spa primarily caters to first class passengers, but Royal Silk passengers may avail of the facilities, subject to space availability, and with extra charges to be made. Here, passengers can have full use of the Gym room, and experience services like foot massages and traditional Thai massages (neck and shoulders only). A must to experience is the 3 Spa Suites, with Jacuzzi and tropical rain falls that enclose passengers in a tranquil atmosphere. Ahh, sheer bliss!
