In recent years, airport lounges throughout the US have been in decline thanks to reduced services and entrance policies that essentially allow anyone with a Chase or Citibank card to enter. But change is on the way as American Express debuts its new Centurion Lounge now open in Dallas and Las Vegas with installments in SF, NY, Singapore, Dubai and London on the way. With an amped-up concept of premium dining, stylish décor and spa amenities in a mega-space located in-terminal, American Express looks to be a welcomed airport sanctuary for all its travelling cardholders.
On par with offerings like the Virgin-Atlantic’s Clubhouse at London’s Heathrow, Centurion offers a remarkably fashionable design aesthetic that immediately makes its competition including some International First-Class lounges feel second-rate. A circular design at its DFW-location is trimmed in wood paneling with walls of tufted leather and space décor of Saarinen-inspired tables with tulip chairs. Food and drinks are complementary as well as the epicurean buffet of locally inspired food presentations by celebrity chefs like Dean Faring and Scott Conant. A spa is still in the works with on-demand massage services as well as Shower Suites stuffed with L’Occitane amenities.
The Centurion Lounge is open from 5am-12am daily with access to all American Express cardholders, however keep in mind free entrance is only for Platinum and Black Card holders while everyone else must pay $50 for a one-day pass. So far the lounges are a hit with those visiting with one guests commenting, “Now if American Express can only get into the actually airline business we’ll be set.”
