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AIRPORT GLORY
The upward trend and reopening of global airport lounges
WORDS KHURSHEED MISTRY
Lounges are selected spaces within airports for travellers to enjoy bene ts and luxuries exceeding airport terminals which not only make long layovers easier to bear, but also make travelling an overall enjoyable experience. Travelling by air can be exhilarating and chaotic whether, on business or leisure, long-haul ights can be tiresome and o en an inconvenience; involving long queues, crowded spaces and sometimes, a lot of waiting time. By using airport lounges, air travellers can get respite from exhausting journeys and frenzied surroundings jam-packed with noisy people. Lounges are airline a liated, credit card a liated, alliance a liated and independent. Whether it is through a credit card, an elite status with an airline or even purchasing a day pass, accessing an airport lounge is much easier than before. Travellers breathed a sigh of relief when travel saw an upward trend a er a long lull. Airport lounges that were forced to shut down during the pandemic have reopened and are operational across the globe. Some have branched out into new countries and made their mark. For more details and the latest information about timings and access, it is prudent to check their dedicated websites closer to the time of travel. Business Traveller India, in this story, features some of the best, state-of-the-art global lounges that have a lot to o er travellers.
Formerly known as e Concorde Room, British Airways rst and business class, as well as Oneworld frequent yers, can now enjoy worldclass facilities and hospitality at their newly reopened lounge at Terminal 1 in Changi airport. Passengers travelling to Singapore can have a calm and comfortable sanctuary to escape the chaos. With black timber decor, marble and champagne metal nishing, combined with panoramic windows that o er views of the city’s skyline throughout the day, the lounge is very similar to a rotation restaurant. A lobby bar, brasserie dining area and o ce space with workstations and power outlets create a distinctive atmosphere for travellers. Passengers can order food and drinks from their seats via a digital app by scanning a QR code. britishairways.com
CATHAY PACIFIC THE PIER BUSINESS CLASS LOUNGE
Cathay Paci c’s e Pier business class lounge spanning 3900 sqm at the Hong Kong international airport is located on level 5, near Gates 62-68. Travellers can experience far eastern hospitality and cuisine at the lounge; whether it is dining at the popular noodle bar, doing quick stretches before a connecting ight at the private yoga studio, freshening up in one of the 14 shower suites or enjoying artisanal and seasonal tea blends at the renowned Teahouse, this expansive lounge o ers topof-line comfort. Stringent safety measures and checks include the mandatory use of masks where required and entry in the lounge is subject to travellers scanning a QR code from a mobile app leave-homesafe and showing proof of their vaccination certi cate. A visit to e Pier is a must for all travellers who are travelling to or via Hong Kong.
cathaypaci c.com
EMIRATES LOUNGE FOR YOUNG TRAVELLERS
Families of unaccompanied minors and young travellers ying Emirates can now relax. A newly upgraded lounge dedicated for them at Dubai international Airport is located next to Emirates’ rst class lounge in Concourse B. is lounge is open all day and night, with video games, drinks, snacks, comfortable seating areas and free wi , which will keep young yers busy while waiting for their ight. ose prebooking Emirates’ unaccompanied minor service, can drop o the unaccompanied minor at Dubai Airport Terminal 3, where Emirates’ airport team will check them in for their ights in a special lounge area designated for them. A er checking them in, a dedicated sta member will escort the young passengers through immigration and security to their dedicated departure lounge and from the lounge to the boarding gate when it is time for their ight.
emirates.com
ETIHAD AIRWAYS FIRST AND BUSINESS CLASS LOUNGE
Etihad Airways has opened its new rst and business class lounge at Sydney’s Kingsford Smith international airport which is located in Pier C, adjacent to Gate 51. e new lounge which o ers a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere is designed around style, space and elegance for guests to re-energise, rest, dine, work or be entertained. e lounge is spanned over two natural light lled levels and o ers a range of facilities catering to the diverse needs of today’s business and leisure travellers such as business amenities with top-of-the-line computers, complimentary wi connectivity, multi-zone electrical and USB power outlets, shower facilities, children’s play room, extensive culinary choices and much more. etihad.com
JAPAN AIRLINES SAKURA LOUNGE
Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge at Narita international airport is a spacious lounge with warm and earthy colour schemes and equipped with the same multi-functional facilities as the JAL rst class lounge. Sakura lounge is an idyllic setting to relax while waiting for a ight; it o ers a breathtaking and close-up view of nearby aircra s. Passengers can choose from a selection of quality gourmet dishes, including the airline’s signature curry dish and freshly baked artisanal bread, paired with a selection of seasonal wines and Japanese sake. Whether it is sipping a drink, enjoying a hot beverage or working between ights, the lounge o ers optimum luxury and facilities.
jal.com
PLAZA PREMIUM LOUNGE AT FRANKFURT AIRPORT
Plaza Premium Group has unveiled the rst new lounge in Germany, in Frankfurt’s airport Terminal 2 which is the perfect setting for business and leisure travellers. e lounge has a capacity of up to 110 people and if booked in advance, children can enjoy discounted rates. Whether it’s getting a good meal to eat, relaxing with a drink or nding a quiet spot to get some work done, the lounge is an idyllic for all purposes. e lounge is decorated with comfortable seating and soothing décor which helps guests to relax, get away from the chaos and bustle of the airport, and be comfortable. e lounge o ers interesting culinary fares and beverages. Additional services include a fully serviced bar with a wide variety of drinks, unlimited high-speed wi , TVs throughout the lounge showing the latest news and sports, workstations and showers.
plazapremiumlounge.com
QATAR AIRWAYS PREMIUM LOUNGE
A new premium lounge by Qatar Airways has opened at Terminal 1 of Singapore’s Changi Airport. With luxurious interiors, a welcoming atmosphere, top-of-the-line o erings and spanning across 700 sqm, the lounge can accommodate around 85 passengers. It features seven additional seating areas. Passengers who want a quiet atmosphere can relax in one of the ve quiet pods that o er tranquil, soundproof, semi-private space equipped with reading lights, a coat hanger, and universal charging points. e lounge features a full kitchen, an extensive à la carte menu and a sumptuous bu et spread, which is complemented by a wine and cocktail bar helmed by a professional mixologist.
qatarairways.com
SILVERKRIS AND KRISFLYER GOLD LOUNGES AT SINGAPORE CHANGI AIRPORT
e Singapore Airlines Silverkris and Kris yer Gold lounges are located on level 3, above Departure Gate A, in Singapore’s Changi Airport. ey o er a high standard of service in elegantly designed spaces with the signature batik motif and unique ight-related themes incorporated throughout the lounges. e lounges covers a staggering 6,100 sqm with segregated areas catering to varying needs of the travellers. e Silverkris lounge comprises three lounges in one - e Private Room, the rst and business class sections. e Silverkris and Kris yer Gold lounges can accommodate more than 1000 passengers and have their own dining area, food service counters, restrooms, and showers with en suite toilets, baby care facilities, full bar service and complimentary wi access.
singaporeair.com
SLEEP ‘N FLY
is is the biggest sleep pod lounge spanning across 575 sqm and is located at Emirates Terminal 3. e pods are soundproof, can be locked from inside, and the lounge can sleep 46 travellers; o ering lounge access for many guests and is open to passengers booked into any cabin class. Travellers can choose from the two-storey facility featuring bunk bed cabins, exisuite pods with lie- at plane-style beds, lounge access or business pods that come with folding desks, multiple charging options and can be converted into small meeting rooms. Each pod has a comfortable chair reclining to a lie- at bed, overhead storage, USB and power sockets to keep devices charged and a folding table doubling as a small desk. Travellers can avail of other amenities for an additional fee. emirates.com
SKY TEAM REOPENS SYDNEY LOUNGE
Sky team’s elite plus, rst and business class passengers who will y from Sydney will enjoy a warm welcome with a fully refurbished lounge that has been redesigned with oor-to-ceiling windows and o ers stunning views across the runway. e lounge o ers 149 chairs and ottomans for customers to sit back and relax and a tranquil décor of restful blue hues combined with natural wooden tones which make it a perfect place to unwind, nap or catch up on work. e à la carte menu features dishes which are fresh and locally sourced. It also has a live-cooking station, bu et service and barista co ees. e bar serves a selection of Australian wines that passengers can enjoy before taking their ight. skyteam.com
THE CLUB CLT AT CHARLOTTE DOUGLAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
An avant-garde airport lounge designed to re ect the character of each region, the Club CLT is customised to appeal to all the senses and o ers an elevated experience from start to nish. It is a warm and welcoming space that o ers an immersive experience and transports travellers from a noisy airport into a tranquil environment. Decorated in deep jewel tones, it is furnished with comfortable seating. e menu serves a range of delicious local specialities and favourites. e full-service bar has a range of premium drinks and a variety of locally brewed beers. Digital F&B ordering through an app allows guests to order their food and beverages via a QR code.
theclubairportlounges.com
UNITED AIRLINES CLUB LOUNGE
United Airlines has recently opened its largest club lounge at Newark Liberty International Airport which is located in Terminal C3 near gate C123. With a capacity of almost 480 seats, spectacular city views, elegant and tasteful décor featuring art by local artists, luxurious shower suites and a state-of-the-art co ee shop; the club is ideal for relaxing, catching up on work, private dining and socialising. e lounge also includes modern amenities like a self-scan entry for quick access and free, highspeed wi . e airline is committed to delivering a superior customer experience in increasingly crowded airports. united.com BTI
Festivities Galore40
A celebratory period enhanced by luxury
WORDS ANITHYA BALACHANDRAN
As the festive season nears us we are reminded of the values that keep us grounded. e joyous aura of festivities are strengthened through feelings of love, harmony and unity. Diwali, the festival of light reminds us how we can vanquish the darkness within us by coming together. Christmas unites us through the spirit of giving. Lastly, New Year’s Eve reminds us of all that we should be grateful for and acts as a time of introspection on how to make the most of the coming year. During this time, we look for ways to show our love and gratitude toward those we love. We have curated a list of luxury hotels across India where one can revel in the delights of the upcoming festive season with their near and dear ones.
MUMBAI
JW MARRIOTT MUMBAI SAHAR
Renowned for its close proximity to the international airport, the hotel provides guests with multiple options to delight themselves. With comfort and convenience in mind all 588 rooms and suites have been designed to make guests feel the home away from home sentiment. For guests who book a concierge or a suite category room, complimentary airport transfers and unlimited access to the luxurious executive lounge is o ered. To speci cally celebrate Diwali, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar has cra ed a selection of decadent treats in collaboration with Ether Atelier Chocolat, to elevate the festival with sweet gi ing options. Each hamper is made with a balanced combination of handcra ed sweets and savouries, making it a tasteful gi option for the occasion. In addition to this, Marriott Bonvoy has partnered with popular Indian designer Manish Malhotra to revisit traditions as style is an important factor in the upcoming festivities. marriott.com
THE ST. REGIS MUMBAI
e luxury property situated in the heart of the city, brings together a wealthy history of hospitality and exceptional service for its guests. Sophisticated elements such as on-call butler service, traditional a ernoon tea and a champagne sabering ceremony, make this hotel ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a world of luxury. e tastefully decorated rooms, suites and apartments, each featuring views of the bustling city or sea are well equipped with an extensive list of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. To celebrate Diwali, the hotel has curated a special set of artisanal o erings and an assortment of handcra ed traditional Indian sweets. One can choose from the likes of a Bespoke Luxe hamper which features decadent gourmet Indian sweets, an assortment of nuts and much more, to gi to their friends and family. marriott.com
DELHI
ANDAZ DELHI
Andaz Delhi, a concept by Hyatt, features the largest guest rooms in Aerocity. An endearing feature is that all rooms feature one of 401 unique art pieces that capture the essence of the city. A popular choice with business and leisure travellers alike, the hotel is conveniently located near the U.S. Embassy and Consulate General and is a short distance from the city’s popular tourist attractions such as the Qutub Minar, India Gate, Lodhi Garden and commercial hubs such as DLF Emporio, DLF Promenade and Ambience Mall. Guests can indulge in a self-care session before the festivities commence at Andaz Spa. e spa o ers an innovative apothecary approach guided by the individual’s chakra energies and desires. Lastly, the luxury lifestyle hotel has a range of curated artisanal products that are an extension of its philosophy of promoting products that are luxurious and locally sourced. Celebrating Diwali through their 401 Reasons to Fall in Love with Delhi as reason number 262, Andaz Delhi has nine types of hampers and gi boxes to choose from. hyatt.com
THE LEELA AMBIENCE GURUGRAM HOTEL AND RESIDENCES
e 322 key luxury property, situated in close proximity to the Ambience Mall, is where guests can witness the amalgamation of Indian tradition and modern design. Renowned as an art hotel, the Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel and Residences features many ceremonial rituals that enhance the guest’s experience. e hotel practises an evening ritual of lighting lamps at dusk where four ladies don a traditional Indian saree in four di erent styles and walk down the stairs on either side of the lobby with a decorated platter of small oil lamps (diyas). e ceremony ends with guests being invited to refresh themselves a er a tiring day at work with an array of beverages consisting of immunity boosters and other healthy drinks. In keeping with the hotel’s zeal for celebrating tradition, the ve star property has launched a collection of traditional delicacies, Signatures by e Leela, for Diwali. e hampers include a variety of traditional Indian sweets, festive decorations and much more. theleela.com
HYATT REGENCY GURGAON
One of the largest luxury convention hotels in Gurgaon, the property acts as a convenient stopover for travellers exploring the golden triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. e hotel features 451 well-appointed, spacious guest rooms and 35 luxurious suites which create a comfortable ambience for guests to unwind. One can treat themselves to or gi a loved one a lavish experience by checking in to the Regency Suite King. e spacious suite spanning across 88 sqm features oor-to-ceiling windows with a private jacuzzi and views overlooking immaculately landscaped gardens, along with luxury amenities providing state-of-the-art comfort and entertainment. e Regency Suite perks include access to the Regency Club Lounge which o ers a complimentary breakfast bu et, evening cocktails, all-day tea and co ee and so beverages, exclusive amenities, private check-in and check-out facilities, limited access to a private boardroom, and high-speed Internet access. hyatt.com
JW MARRIOTT HOTEL NEW DELHI AEROCITY
An assemblage of stylish decor and personalised service, the 511 key property is idyllic for those wishing to explore Delhi. A stone’s throw away from the U.S. Embassy and Consulate General, as well as Ambience Mall and Qutub Minar, guests can explore the capital city in the lap of luxury. e guest rooms include indulgent bedding, mini-bars, marble bathrooms, ample workstations, free wi and 24-hour room service. Moreover, as it is popular to indulge in a spot of self-care before the festive season commences, the Quan spa o ers a wide assortment of holistic treatments. A particularly special feature of the hotel is that it is a pet-friendly property. So, if guests wish to spend the festive days with their pet cocooned in luxury, the JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity is an ideal place to do so. marriott.com
BENGALURU
THE RITZ-CARLTON, BANGALORE
Situated in the central business district of Bengaluru, e RitzCarlton, Bangalore is the epitome of luxury in the Garden City. Featuring grand rooms and suites, its accommodation blends contemporary silhouettes with elements taken from traditional Indian design. e spacious rooms feature a Dean and Delucacurated minibar and awe-inspiring views of the Indian Silicon Valley. e Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore in honour of the festive period of Diwali has launched a range of artisanal sweets and hampers curated by the hotel’s experienced and highly skilled chefs. e range includes seven di erent types of hampers and sweet boxes. e most premium hamper in the o ering is the Signature hamper which features 12 specially curated elements ranging from a luxury scented candle, and traditionally cra ed sweets to a brass idol.
ritzcarlton.com
CONRAD BENGALURU
Designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates from Singapore, Conrad Bengaluru epitomises minimal luxury. e hotel overlooks the beautiful Ulsoor Lake with 285 rooms and suites. Meeting spaces sprawl over 1,500 sqm, including a pillar-less ballroom. e 24-storey property towers above Bengaluru’s Central Business District and takes pride in its incorporation of local South Indian culture, thoughtfully curated by their concierges. e building’s architecture aims to induce a feeling of warmth and create an optimal environment for relaxation. One can choose to treat themselves to unlimited luxury by opting to stay in the King One Bedroom Presidential Suite. e sprawling suite features a living room, dining room, study, pantry and lounge access. Set on the highest oor of the hotel and spread across 192 sqm, the presidential suite o ers the best views of Bengaluru’s skyline and Ulsoor lake.
hilton.com
SHANGRI-LA BENGALURU
Overlooking a bird’s-eye-view of the Bangalore Palace, the hotel is situated between historic attractions and the business district of the city. Spectacular skyline views of the city will make a guest’s stay at the hotel even more special. Featuring 397 spacious rooms and suites, the hotel can provide a peaceful getaway for those who wish to break away from the busyness of the festive period. Each guest room features oor-to-ceiling windows and sophisticated décor replete with plush fabrics. To guarantee that guests have a peaceful night of sleep, body-contouring beds draped in luxury Frette linens amplify an ambience of relaxation and marble-clad bathrooms feature walk-in wardrobes and luxurious amenities. If one wishes to host a celebration for any of the upcoming festivities, the hotel features a range of customisable packages to accommodate the host’s needs and requirements. shangri-la.com
ITC GARDENIA, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, BENGALURU
Surrounded by lush greenery ITC Gardenia provides a breath of fresh air to those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. Located in the heart of Bengaluru, the 292 key property overlooks the century-old Bangalore Club and is nestled in the midst of Bengaluru’s most elite neighbourhood. e hotel imbibes elements of tranquillity inspired by the surrounding verdant foliage as can be seen in the décor, textiles and furniture of the hotel. e architectural elements are in shades of green, beige and peacock blue. To unwind before the festive season commences one can book a treatment at Kaya Kalp – the spa. Treatments at the spa are derived from traditional Ayurvedic elements and aim to revitalise and relax guests.
itchotels.com
TIMELESS LUXURY
Luxury watches designed and curated for the modern man
WORDS GAYATRI THAKKAR
Arst impression should always be a good one; it is o en impacted by how one carries themselves. While many factors impact the presentability of a person, sporting a luxury watch is o en a marker of someone who likes to make a statement and be impeccable in their appearance.
A luxury watch is not an item of utility, in fact, it sets a premium scale to showcase unique cra smanship and the technological ingenuity of its creator. Business Traveller India spotlights some of the best luxury watches for men which are the epitome of style, élan and precision.
BREGUET
TRADITION QUANTIÈME RÉTROGRADE 7597
With a pare-chute shock absorber, Breguet’s Tradition 7597 displays components inspired by the original timepieces designed by Abraham Louis Breguet. Classic
Roman numerals and a hand-guilloché clous de Paris motif adorn the dial. e deep blue dial is ensconced in a 40 mm white-gold case. e 505Q calibre self-winding movement has an inverted lever and silicon horns. e material improves the corrosion resistance of the watch and also ensures precise timekeeping and minimal in uence of magnetic elds. e display features hours, minutes, and a retrograde date marker. e watch boasts a 50-hour power reserve, and water resistance up to 30 meters. A gold pin buckle secures a midnight blue alligator leather strap. With a sapphire case back with a gold oscillating weight, this timepiece exudes opulence.
breguet.com
IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN
BIG PILOT’S WATCH PERPETUAL CALENDAR
IWC Scha ausen’s Big Pilot Perpetual Calendar watch is adorned with a stainless steel casing and a calendar complication, along with a double moon phase display. Its perpetual calendar has been lauded since the 1980s for being able to recognise di erent month lengths, including leap years. e 52615 calibre timepiece also features a Pellaton winding system with ceramic components to eliminate wear. Rhodium-plated hands sweep across a blue dial. With a seven-day power reserve, a rotor with an 18-carat gold medallion, and a smooth blue leather strap, this watch is a magni cent work of art. iwc.com
PANERAI
LUMINOR BITEMPO
e automatic, mechanical timepiece presents a unique ability to simultaneously display the time in two separate time zones, courtesy of its GMT feature. A 44mm brushed steel case houses a dial that comes in two sleek shades; sun-brushed and matte black, accompanied by an alligator strap in a matching hue. In sharp contrast, the additional GMT function hand is of a cerulean blue. e watch also sports a transparent sapphire crystal case back. With a power reserve of 72 hours, the P.9012 calibre watch has 31 jewels, a glucydur balance and an inca-bloc anti-shock device. With water resistance up to 300 meters, this masterpiece pays homage to its Italian heritage with Italian inscriptions upon the dial. panerai.com
OMEGA
GREEN SEAMASTER 300M
With skeletonised hands and a helium escape valve, this 42 mm technological wonder is a style statement. e Green Seamaster diver 300 M designed to withstand water resistance up to 300 meters has a nautical theme. e elegant, green ceramic dial of this automatic diving watch is embellished with a classic Geneva wave pattern and is encircled by a matching unidirectional green ceramic bezel, engraved with a diving scale. It has an impressive 55-hour power reserve and also features a date display on the dial itself. e watch strap is a stainless steel bracelet with a diver extension and can be switched with a green rubber strap. is timeless classic has a self-winding movement and is resistant to magnetic elds. is 8800 calibre watch’s hands are rhodium plated with super-lumi nova technology, making it ideal for diving. omegawatches.com
CARTIER
MASSE MYSTÉRIEUSE
As the name suggests, this innovative bejewelled timepiece is truly a mystery to the eye of the beholder. e 43.5 mm semi-transparent skeleton watch has a platinum case and an elegant ruby-encrusted crown. What at rst appears to be an ordinary semi-circular movement happens to be a winding rotor inspired by the designs of the automotive industry. e hands seem to oat upon the transparent dial, while the aesthetically-pleasing geared movement gently rotates, appearing to be mysteriously suspended in thin air. e 9801 MC calibre watch with water resistance up to 30 meters was developed and perfected over eight years by Cartier. is spectacular watch is attached to a black alligator leather strap and is limited to 30 pieces worldwide. cartier.com BTI
