Dec 5

Dec 5 The Lemon Recommends - Swiss Lounge Zurich A

On a recent transatlantic trip, it was necessary to make a (very) long layover in Zurich Airport. Faced with many hours of waiting to board my next flight ahead of me, I decided to purchase a day pass to the Swiss Lounge. And I am so glad I did.

Entering the lounge, I immediately put my bags down in the buffet area, and had a cup of coffee and some breakfast. At the time the lounge was bustling with many people - families traveling together, others sitting alone on business trips - and I gladly people watched, wondering from which far corners of the world people were traveling to and from. After a while, the crowd thinned out after the peak travel times, and for most of the day I was one of the few people left hanging around.

*The perfect excuse to get up for a little walk*

It was so convenient to be able to stay in the lounge. Since it was a long layover, I would set up with my computer at one of the tables for a little while, then migrate over to the comfy chairs to read my book for a chapter or two, taking little trips to the buffet as an excuse to get up and walk around. Being able to just get up and access the buffet for a drink or a quick snack was so much comfortable than if I had to drag all my bags around with me to walk around the airport and look for a store.

I was so happy to discover there was a smoking lounge - but not for the reason you may think. Being able to step outside, breathe in fresh air and see the blue sky above me was a welcome respite after more than 12 hours in airplanes and airports. There were only a few standing tables and it was chilly, but even to step outside for a few minutes was so lovely.

*To feel the fresh cold air and see the blue sky was incredible*

I also took a look at the shower facilities for future reference. With a locked wardrobe outside, there is also plenty of room in the private room to hold your things. All amenities are provided, such as towels, soaps and shampoos, as well as a hairdryer. When flying cross-continentally, a shower would definitely be a welcome relax. And honestly, a good way to kill some time on a long layover.

The staff was incredibly professional and friendly. They made sure I had all the information about the services available, such as how to connect to the free airport WiFi. They also informed me that you can enter and exit the lounge, so you can step out, perhaps to do some duty-free shopping or to take a walk around. (Just double-check with staff before exiting to make sure you have the proper credentials to re-enter).

*There is plenty of space to work, to rest, and to have a bite to eat*

I find going to a lounge is just a more relaxing experience overall. The time passes in a more enjoyable and peaceful way than if you were in the hustle and bustle of the airport. When I am in the main terminal, I usually am not able to get much done. I feel aimless and get board easily. But in a lounge, you can get up and move around, get a drink, etc. without having to move all your things or risk losing your seat. It is easier to structure your time and not feel like you are wasting away in the airport.

*There is even a quiet space to take a rest*

There are a few different lounges at Zurich Airport. Take a look at which terminal you need to be in for your next flight and the opening hours of the lounge to find the best fit for you. You can of course enter on a qualifying (first-class) ticket, but I purchased a day pass for 49 CHF (about 52 USD or 50 euro). I believe you have to purchase the pass before you enter (as opposed to at the desk) so I purchased mine the day before, and therefore had my credentials ready when I landed in Zurich. Given that I had more than six hours to spend, I felt it was worth it. After one long transatlantic flight and with a long wait for the next one, it was so wonderful to just relax, to get some fresh air and to freshen up. I would definitely recommmend.