TRAVEL | The Stylish Virgin Atlantic Lounge

TRAVEL | Heathrow Airport's Luxury Oasis, Complete with Spa and Hair Salon

Virgin Atlantic's Stylish Business Class Lounge

A comfortable flight experience is incomplete without a stay in the pre-boarding lounge. At Virgin Atlantic's business class-only lounge, 'The Clubhouse,' at London Heathrow Airport, travelers are welcomed into a luxurious space complete with a spa, hair salon, and bar.

Text by YANAKA Tomomi

Refresh Before Departure with Treatments, Jacuzzi, and Sauna

Virgin Atlantic, often called the 'revolutionary of the airline industry' for its continuous introduction of innovative customer services such as in-seat personal televisions in economy class and the new premium economy class, extends this ethos to its flagship London Heathrow Airport lounge. 'The Clubhouse,' a business class-only sanctuary, unfolds like a stylish members' club.

Spanning over 2,500 square meters, 'The Clubhouse' was renovated in 2006 by Virgin Atlantic's design team, with an investment exceeding £11 million (over 2 billion yen). It offers an innovative and unique pre-flight experience.

Salon & Spa

A dedicated area for enjoying movies and games on a large screen

Particularly noteworthy is the spa, 'Cowshed.' While showers are common in business class lounges, a spa is a rare amenity. This is no ordinary spa; guests can indulge in treatments like facials and massages using skincare items from the renowned German holistic skincare brand 'Dr. Hauschka,' as well as enjoy services such as shaving.

Additionally, within the spa area, the hair salon 'Bumble & Bumble' offers haircuts by dedicated stylists. Passengers can also refresh themselves in the jacuzzi, sauna, or steam room before their flight.

The hair salon 'Bumble & Bumble,' adjacent to the spa

The culinary and beverage offerings are equally impressive. From a brasserie serving everything from full meals to breakfast in a restaurant setting, to a bar where one can enjoy champagne and cocktails in a sophisticated atmosphere, it rivals London's trendiest hotspots. A concierge is also on hand to assist with various requests, such as booking hotels and restaurants.

Furthermore, for business travelers, there are quiet spaces equipped with various digital devices and free WiFi, dubbed 'The Office and Library.' Children are kept entertained in a game corner and play area. It's even possible to step outside for fresh air and watch planes take off and land up close.

'The Clubhouse' beckons with the promise of a luxurious experience, making one want to travel to London just to visit. It truly embodies the unique and innovative spirit of Virgin Atlantic.

Virgin Atlantic
http://www.virgin-atlantic.com
Tel. 03-3499-8811 (until January 30, 2015)
(Reception Hours: Weekdays 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM; Closed Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)