By Michele Robson
Returning to how you used to travel is hard once you experience business class or the relative tranquility of an airport lounge. All this has resulted in airline lounges becoming increasingly crowded and less peaceful than before.
Airlines have tried to rectify the problems by removing lounge access for groups of customers or, in the case of British Airways, making status hard to achieve for most leisure travelers.
Meanwhile, wealthy passengers have found their own solution with ultra-luxury private lounges and even separate terminals.
These new experiences have been growing within the United States for some time, and now the concept is spreading to Europe and, in particular, the UK.
The exclusive airport spaces offer a different world from the standard airport lounge with its tired buffet and cheap drinks. No expense is spared for the privileged passengers, who can expect food by celebrity chefs, private security, and chauffeur-driven cars to their aircraft.
In the U.S., the ultra-luxury options include hiring a whole suite at La Guardia with three private rooms and a dedicated server in the Reserve Suites at the Sapphire Lounge.
In addition to a welcome caviar service and a wine list from New York wine bar Parcelle, guests can enjoy an 脿 la carte menu from Jeffrey鈥檚 Grocery. Even the ensuite bathroom offers an elevated spa-like experience with Augustinus Bader amenities. Prices start from $2,200 for the smallest suite, which can take four people. The suites are even more exclusive, as you must be a Sapphire Reserve cardholder to book them.
Even more exclusive are the PS private terminals located in Los Angeles and Atlanta.
These offer different levels of service, with the entry-level offering general lounge access and shared transport from the terminal to your commercial flight for a mere $1,095. If you want more privacy, there is also the option of a private suite, which is perfect for a group or those with pets. All the options include check-in and customs in the terminal.