Long flights coupled with layovers can sometimes be very draining. Checking into a luxurious and comfortable airport lounge can prove to be a sigh of relief for any traveller. Explore these unique airport lounges across the world for a rather interesting layover experience.
The 080 lounge at Terminal 2 of the Kempegowda International Airport is a tribute to the beauty and geographical diversity of India. Divided in six zones, ranging from "Banyan by the river" that is inspired by the Ganga ghats to the "Nicobar Lounge," drawing inspiration from the Great Nicobar Islands.
The new addition that completes the international lounge is the "Shalimar Bagh" inspired by the beauty of Kashmir. With rose-bud-shaped lights and a corner decorated by Khatamband—a Kashmiri art form that uses small wooden pieces to create geometric designs. Nestled next to the "Seven Sisters Tea Room," the Kashmir-inspired section is a beautiful inclusion at the international airport lounge.
The VIP centre of Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport comprises a fleet of rooms, including a library, smoking room, and a bar that has been designed by Marcel Wanders and his studio. Dutch history, heritage, and culture are woven together beautifully at the VIP lounge of the airport. Picture replicas of famous Dutch paintings that make travellers feel like they just entered the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, or the Delft Blue Salon that allows passengers to retreat amidst walls paying a tribute to the blue delft pottery art.
The dimly-lit smoke room at the VIP centre speaks of Netherlands' historical connection with the tobacco trade. The lounge also has digital portraits of Dutch personalities, both real and fictional, including artist Vincent Van Gogh, violinist Andre Rieu, and cartoon bunny Miffy. A few hours between your flights at this lounge will allow you to experience different sides of Dutch culture—right from its art to its history.
The Al Safwa First Lounge at the Hamad International Airport in Doha brings to you a slice of the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. A museum-like hallway adorned with artworks and pottery pieces enclosed in glass shelves welcome you as you enter the lounge. Many artworks are loaned from the Museum of Islamic Art, Doha, making it seem like an art exhibit instead of an airport lounge!
The hallway leads to a large hall with soaring, sky-high ceilings. It is a perfect spot to unwind and relax in a calming setting, before hopping on your next light. With over a dozen private rooms, a spa, and a jacuzzi room, this unique airport lounge allows passengers to indulge in comfort and luxury before they hop on a red-eye flight.
For a tranquil layover experience, the Polaris Lounge at the O’Hare International Airport in Chicago is a perfect spot. The showstopper at the luxurious lounge is the starry night chandelier-like installation in the foyer, that aims to replicate Chicago's starry nights. English artist Wolfgang Buttress designed the installation to give a sense to the travellers of the starry views from Downtown Chicago.
The lounge caters to all kinds of layover—from the business travellers to the ones looking to unwind with a well-crafted drink. With individual workspaces and a glowing bar to a full-service restaurant (the burgers here are loved by all!), the Polaris lounge serves for a great layover.
