Here’s the secret to traveling like a VIP, no matter your ticket class!

Picture this: You’re at the airport, hours before your flight, surrounded by the usual chaos—long security lines, crowded terminals, overpriced food, and nowhere comfortable to sit.

Now, imagine an entirely different scene.

You step through a discreet entrance, leaving the noise behind, and suddenly, you’re in a world of plush seating, gourmet dining, premium cocktails, and even spa treatments.

This isn’t a first-class dream reserved for the elite. It’s a reality available to travelers worldwide—if they only know where to look.

Photo from Architectural Digest

Airport lounges have long been considered a luxury reserved for business and first-class passengers.

However, thanks to programs like Priority Pass, anyone can unlock this hidden world of comfort and convenience!

With over 1,300 lounges worldwide, Priority Pass offers travelers an escape from the airport frenzy, regardless of their airline or ticket class.

Several premium U.S. credit cards offer complimentary Priority Pass Select memberships, providing access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide.

Notable options include:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve®

  Offers unlimited Priority Pass Select access for the primary cardholder and authorized users. Additional benefits include 3x points on travel and dining, a USD 300 annual travel credit, and comprehensive travel protections.

  Annual fee: USD 550.

• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

  Provides unlimited Priority Pass Select access for the primary cardholder and authorized users at no extra cost. Cardholders also receive a USD 300 annual travel credit and 10,000 bonus miles each account anniversary.

  Annual fee: USD 395.

• The Platinum Card® from American Express

  Includes Priority Pass Select access upon enrollment, along with access to Amex Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta same-day. Additional perks encompass 5x Membership Rewards Points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel, and various annual statement credits.

  Annual fee: USD 695.

• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

  Offers Priority Pass Select membership upon enrollment, plus Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status and an annual free night award. Cardholders earn 6x points at Marriott Bonvoy hotels and 3x points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines.

  Annual fee: USD 650.

• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite credit card

  Provides up to four Priority Pass Select memberships per account, allowing cardholders to share lounge access with family or friends. Additional benefits include up to USD 300 in airline incidental credits and up to USD 150 in lifestyle credits annually.

  Annual fee: USD 550.

Take note that benefits and terms for these cards can change over time. It’s advisable to consult the official card issuer’s website or contact them directly for the most current information.

Meanwhile, here’s a look at 12 of the best Priority Pass lounges in the world—places where the journey becomes just as enjoyable as the destination!

• Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club (LaGuardia Airport, New York - LGA)

  Tucked inside Terminal B of New York’s LaGuardia Airport, this lounge is a game-changer for domestic travelers.

  The design is sleek and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. The mezzanine overlooks the terminal, offering a perfect spot to relax before your flight.

  Expect craft cocktails, gourmet dining, high-speed Wi-Fi, and comfortable workspaces that transform layovers into productive or restful breaks.

  There’s also a selection of locally sourced bites and an impressive mixology menu that rivals some of New York’s best bars!

• Sala VIP Internacional (Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport, Ecuador - UIO)

  For those flying out of Ecuador’s capital, this lounge provides an oasis of tranquility. What sets it apart?

  An outdoor terrace where you can soak in fresh air before your flight, along with private workspaces, sleeping areas, and even massage rooms!

  If that’s not enough, there’s also a wine cellar offering select wines to enhance your pre-flight experience.

  This lounge is also known for its friendly staff, ensuring that every guest receives personalized service, whether they need a quick espresso or a quiet place to work.

• Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club (Hong Kong International Airport - HKG)

  Spanning an impressive 12,000 square feet, this lounge is designed for both business and leisure travelers. Whether you need a quiet spot to work or a relaxing space to unwind, you’ll find it here.

  Enjoy a self-serve buffet with gourmet options, a cocktail bar featuring signature drinks, and made-to-order dishes that elevate airport dining to another level.

  Luxurious shower suites and reclining pods also make it an excellent choice for travelers with long layovers.

• Vienna Lounge (Vienna International Airport, Austria - VIE)

  Recently refurbished, this lounge offers a taste of Vienna’s historic charm with Art Nouveau-inspired design.

  Travelers can indulge in a Viennese café experience, complete with premium coffee and pastries, or relax on the outdoor terrace with views of the runway.

  The high-end dining options include Austrian specialties such as schnitzel and strudel, ensuring that your pre-flight meal is as memorable as your destination.

• Petra Lounge (Queen Alia International Airport, Amman, Jordan - AMM)

  Inspired by Jordan’s rich history, Petra Lounge combines modern elegance with Middle Eastern hospitality. Spacious seating areas, vibrant decor, and a diverse food selection create a welcoming atmosphere.

  Whether you’re sipping on traditional Arabic coffee or enjoying an international buffet, this lounge ensures a luxurious start to your journey.

  Additional perks include private napping rooms and dedicated prayer spaces for those seeking a moment of reflection before takeoff.

• Turkish Airlines Lounge (Miami International Airport - MIA)

  Known for its hospitality, Turkish Airlines brings a taste of its world-class service to Miami.

  This lounge offers a spacious seating area, shower facilities, and a rich selection of Turkish and international cuisine.

  Freshly prepared meals and an extensive beverage menu make it a must-visit for travelers seeking comfort and quality.

  The warm ambiance, inspired by Istanbul’s grand bazaars, sets the perfect tone for relaxation before a flight.

• Primeclass Lounge (Muscat International Airport, Oman - MCT)

  A hidden gem in the Middle East, this lounge boasts elegant interiors and top-tier amenities. Guests can enjoy gourmet dishes, premium drinks, and a serene environment that provides an escape from the bustling terminal.

  Whether you need a nap or a meal before a long-haul flight, Primeclass Lounge delivers an exceptional experience!

  The lounge also features a wellness area with reclining massage chairs, ensuring ultimate relaxation.

• Club Kingston (Norman Manley International Airport, Jamaica - KIN)

  Stepping into this lounge feels like a warm Jamaican welcome. From tropical decor to an impressive spread of local cuisine and rum tastings, Club Kingston offers an authentic island experience.

  Whether you’re departing or waiting for a connection, this lounge adds a touch of paradise to your journey!

  Live reggae music performances and handcrafted cocktails further enhance the island vibes.

• The Club MCO (Orlando International Airport - MCO)

  Perfect for families and solo travelers alike, this lounge provides a comfortable space to recharge before a flight.

  It also features complimentary snacks, beverages, and workspaces, making it an excellent retreat from Orlando’s often hectic terminals.

  A kids’ play area and a quiet zone for business travelers make it versatile for all types of passengers.

• Escape Lounge (Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport - MSP)

  True to its name, this lounge offers an escape from the usual airport crowds. With modern decor, premium dining, and craft cocktails, it’s a haven for travelers looking for a relaxing pre-flight experience.

  The locally inspired menu features dishes crafted by renowned Minnesota chefs, making it a culinary highlight for food lovers.

• VIP Lounge (Guayaquil International Airport, Ecuador - GYE)

  Another standout from Ecuador, this lounge offers everything from comfortable seating to delicious cuisine. The warm hospitality and well-stocked bar make it a favorite among frequent flyers.

  Plush reclining chairs and shower facilities ensure that passengers can refresh before a long journey.

• The House (Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, Australia - SYD)

  Luxury meets comfort in this sophisticated lounge. Featuring fine dining, a curated wine selection, and stylish interiors, The House provides a premium experience for travelers passing through Sydney.

  Private suites, an à la carte dining menu, and spa services elevate this lounge to a truly first-class experience!

Final Thoughts

Long layovers and crowded terminals don’t have to define your travel experience. With Priority Pass, you can access some of the world’s best airport lounges, transforming your journey into a seamless, luxurious adventure!

Whether you’re looking for a quiet workspace, a gourmet meal, or just a comfortable place to unwind, these lounges ensure your time at the airport is anything but ordinary.

So, the next time you travel, take advantage of these hidden gems!

Make every moment of your trip as enjoyable as the destination itself.

Hope you find today’s article insightful, entertaining, and interesting!