Bliss isn't often a word used in association with airport lounges. But enjoying a complimentary in the five-star SkyTeam facility at Heathrow Airport in London is just that—bliss. Spread out over two floors, the luxurious lounge is located in Terminal 4, opposite Gate 10, which means it's only a few minutes' walk to board my flight to Australia. Available to First and Business Class passengers and SkyTeam Elite, the lounge offers space for more than 300 passengers. The staff is incredibly friendly and after walking me around the facilities, which include complimentary WIFI throughout, I'm booked in for my complimentary massage.
For 15 minutes, I'm totally relaxed. Used Clarins products, I'm kneaded and knots are loosened, setting me up for my long-haul flight. I then take advantage of the oxygen bar, breathing in flavored, pure oxygen for 10 minutes. I'm sure it's just a novelty, but I'm assured it could help to reduce jetlag. Either way I feel remarkably light-headed afterwards and that's before the champagne! The ground floor of the SkyTeam lounge is busy. There's a complimentary food and beverage service with a selection of international cuisine. I snack on stir-fry noodles, cheese and biscuits, while sipping on bubbly from the well-stocked wine bar.
If you've got work to do, there's a comprehensive business area with free internet access. Or, if you fancy chilling out in between flights, there's a quiet area, complete with day beds. Just make sure you don't oversleep, which I'm told some people have. Upstairs is quieter. Here, there are the same facilities, as well as the top of the living wall, a lush, green, leafy area which is the signature of the lounge, giving it a fresh, outdoors atmosphere. Relax in VIP heaven in the ultra-luxurious VIP room - in which you'll see VIPs and celebrities.
There are exclusive wines and champagne on offer, as well as top-class food and staff on hand, meaning you don't have to leave until your flight's boarding if you don't want to. After a massage, pure oxygen, two glasses of bubbly and lovely food, I don't want to leave the SkyTeam lounge. However, I'm reminded that my plane is due to leave fairly soon, so I have to. Although a return visit is definitely on the cards.
