Ladies Wot Lounge

5am...here starts a day in the life of the Jetset. Monday morning redeyes, train and taxi transfers, airport security, airplanes, hotels. Now and again, albeit an exception rather than a norm, there is a chance to step outside and visit the latest stamp in your passport but, in general, it's pretty much always on the go.

So, it's no surprise that a Jetset a lounge is her (and his) castle. Just as we seek out the perfect hotel retreat overnight, the lure of the airline lounge one of the most important pitstops of the travelling day.

Growing to Gold is a status symbol of comfort, moreso than standing. Every tier-step of airline loyalty takes you closer to the next level of elite that allows you, even if only for an hour before flying, to catch up yet simultaneously unwind, far from the maddening crowd.

Soft seating, mood lighting, working wifi, snacks and soft drinks, not so soft drinks, champagne and freshly cooked meals - this is the baseline standard. The magic ingredient, the beauty of silence.

Shhhhh...listen to it, pure unadulterated quietude.

Like everything, there are some that go the extra mile. Even the elite has a wish list - reach Gold Elite status with Etihad Airways and upgrade to First Class lounging in international hubs, silver service fine dining, cigar rooms, sleeping pods, Apple TV and private Six Senses Spa.

A makeover for Cathay Pacific in Hong Kong has added champagne bars and fine dining, with personal cabanas to The Wing First Class Lounge. Minimalist chic and a new level of luxury.

Boutique bliss decorates the London British Airways Galleries Lounge - spacious common rooms with seat side power supplies, coffee bars, water bars, wine bars and the chandeliered Champagne Gold Bar. A luxurious Elemis day spa caters to any deep relaxation and pamper you might just need to top up your downtime.

Lounging jewels for London Heathrow and JFK with Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse - expect all the design and funk you know Virgin to offer, and more. Bose music stations from Jacobsen styled egg chairs, deli bars and champagne bars, virtual gaming and in-lounge salons and Cowshed spas.

A life in the skies is busy, bustling, brilliant.

But every jetset go, needs a solace to jet set slow.

'Til next time, Pandora

Photos: Pandora Skies, Virgin Atlantic, Cathay Pacific