Just a short posts on a couple of airport lounges.
One of the perks of flying First or Business Class is use of the lounges. Regardless of how small or limited offerings, it is usually a lot more relaxing then hanging out at the gates. and it makes for a nice break for at least getting some water or coffee.
Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge (Narita):
I'd heard this lounge was always pretty busy, but it was quite empty during our visit. It is a very large lounge!
The food offerings were decent.
Hot options were curry, hamburg steak, and beef bowls.
I went with some curry rice and miso soup. The curry was surprisingly good.
This beer dispenser caught my eye…..
So I had to try it out……
You place the glass on the stand; press the button and the machine tilts the glass and tries to gently pour in the beer. If the idea was to cut down on foam; I don't think it worked real well. Kind of fun to watch though.
On this trip, the lounge was a nice place to wait for our flight.
Iceland Air Saga Lounge (Reykjavik):
On our way back from Iceland, we had use of the Saga Lounge at Keflavík Airport. I really didn't expect much; but man, the variety of decent quality eats was quite impressive.
I also really liked the fact that there were some local specialties included in the offerings.
Like a version of Plokkfiskur (mashed fish).
Hangikjöt (smoked lamb)……
Two types of pickled herring; which was pretty good and of course the rye bread.
I actually preferred this to what was offered in Business Class on our flight back to Seattle.
And, there was one last surprise. While getting a refill of sparkling water, the really friendly young woman brought out a huge platter of battered, fried shrimp. She looked at me smiled and pointed at the plate. Basically telling me I needed to try some; so I did.
I'm not sure how long that batter would hold out before getting soggy…..though I doubt that it stays around very long…… It was hot, the shrimp fairly sweet, and the batter crisp.
We really didn't expect much and this ended up being a nice surprise.
nice!
Lounges sure cut down on the stress of flying Kat.
Thanks for the glimpse of how the privileged travel! I usually fly Southwest or coach.
Hi Soo – Lol! Not quite priviledged; but lots of miles and we’re willing to pay extra so we can enjoy our trips.
I always thought you made it big when 1) you can order room service and 2) fly business/first class & utilize their VIP rooms. The Iceland lounge looked amazing. I tried the VIP room for China Air in Taipei and found it just so-so.
Hi Faye – Not sure about having it made……and while many lounges really don’t have the offerings or variety of the top notch ones; they are usually a nice oasis within the craziness of airports.
That Iceland lounge food. I’d pay money to dine there!
We were surprised at the variety and quality Junichi!