When I travelled to Lisbon from Stansted Airport this year, we started off the trip in style at No.1 Traveller Lounge.
It was an early morning flight, so we arrived in a zombie-like state (these early trips never get any easier) and luckily our lounge pass granted us complimentary fast-track security access.
No.1 Traveller Lounge was conveniently next to our departure gate, so we could hop from lounge to plane easily, after the obligatory queuing. We were warmly greeted by a member of staff who explained how the lounge works.
The atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful – a haven away from the ebb and flow of the airport. We parked up at a comfy sofa booth and both ordered a tasty, satisfying Bacon Roll from the breakfast menu, which was served on a wooden board (also available is a Waffle with maple syrup or Scrambled Eggs on a toasted muffin).
Guests can choose one freshly-prepared dish from the kitchen and graze away on complimentary items from the self-service pantry table. When we visited, there was a good selection of mini pastries, muffins, cereal, fruits and yoghurt. Tea, coffee and juice are also self-service, so there’s no need to wait for that first cuppa of the day.
Later in the day, you can enjoy a Chicken Caesar Pitta, Serpentini and Vegetable Ragu or comforting Cottage Pie. For something more substantial, a la carte dishes such as Salmon Noodles and Spaetzle with mushoom and truffle sauce are available for an extra fee.
The lounge wasn’t too busy when we were there, but there are plenty of tables and sofas for rush-hour times. I’m definitely not a morning drinker, but you can make the most of your lounge visit with complimentary beers, spirits and wines from the sleek bar. Champagne and Prosecco are also very reasonably priced, if you want to really push the boat out before your flight.
I loved being able to pick up lots of glossy fashion and design magazines and catch up on last-minute emails before flying. There are also TVs and panoramic views of the runway.
Stansted is one of No.1 Traveller’s smaller, more affordable lounges, while at Heathrow and Gatwick there are more facilities. There you can find bedrooms, a travel spa, cinema, dedicated work areas and drencher showers.
Excitingly, No.1 Traveller has just opened My Lounge – an informal, less business-orientated lounge with cool loft-inspired design – at Gatwick’s North Terminal. It seems more family-friendly with a games den, family snug and Mac workstations. Rather than ordering hot food, there is simply a kitchen counter full of light bites and a more social eating environment.
It’s definitely a game-changer in travel, taking the elitism out of airport lounge access and opening them up to more low-key leisure travellers – definitely a smart move.
Next time you’re flying out of Stansted, or a UK major city airport, try No.1 Traveller and take the stress out of the airport experience.
No.1 Traveller Airport Lounge Stansted can be accessed three hours before your flight time. Entry costs £20.00 per adult, £15 per child (aged 2 – 11) and infants go free, when booked online in advance. For more information and booking, visit: www.no1traveller.com
Chérie City was a guest of No.1 Traveller
Photos by No.1 Traveller
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