"The world's best airport lounges"

Thursday, June 24, 2004

The world's best airport lounges
By Nick Easen
Cable News Network (CNN)

 
If you thought European or North American airlines provided the best
airport lounges for executive comfort, think again.

If you have a layover on your next trip and you are looking for a lounge
to relax in or catch up with office work, make sure it is in the
Asia-Pacific or Middle East.

According to one of the largest yearly surveys, airlines from these two
regions have the best airport lounges, taking the top five positions.

Recently Cathay Pacific Airways was voted as having the world's best
lounge in the 2004 Skytrax poll. It also emerged top overall for first
and business class lounges.

"We are delighted to receive such overwhelming support from our
customers," Cathay Pacific General Manager Quince Chong said in a
statement.

"It is testament to the dedication and hard work of all our staff, both
on the ground and in the air."

For first class, Emirates, Gulf Air, South African Airways and Thai
International followed behind Cathay Pacific.

Cathay's closest rivals for business class honors were Gulf, Emirates,
SAS and Qantas.

UK-based Skytrax Research conducted the survey over a ten-month period,
and attracted more than 1.4 million votes.

Voters were asked to evaluate a range of criteria including seating
capacity, lounge decor, business facilities, washrooms, showers and
leisure amenities, food and beverage selections, as well as the
efficiency, friendliness and attitude of lounge staff.

Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific pushed Emirates off the top after the
Dubai-based airline won the accolade last year.

Signature touches throughout these award-winning lounges can now
include: showers, wireless Internet access and 24-hour refreshments with
bar services, including gourmet selections.

BEST AIRPORT LOUNGES 
1. Cathay Pacific
2. Emirates
3. Gulf Air
4. Malaysia Airlines
5. Qantas
6. SAS Scandinavian Airlines
7. Virgin Atlantic
8. Asiana Airlines
9. British Airways
10. South African Airways 
Source: Skytrax Survey 2004

Attached Photo:

Airline lounges are designed to be welcome retreats, away from the
hustle and bustle of busy terminals.

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