VIP Attractions leads world

VIP Attractions, which operates lounges at both major international airports in Jamaica was selected as the world’s best airport lounge among 900 globally.

But in particular, the overall winner was Club Kingston, at Jamaica’s Norman Manley International Airport.

The awards are based on ratings provided by Priority Pass Members and recognize excellence within the world’s largest independent lounge membership programme. Priority Pass now includes airport lounges in over 500 cities and is this year celebrating its 25^th Anniversary.

“We believe that during our six years of existence, we have made significant and innovative contributions to the travel experience for guests entering and leaving Jamaica. Not only does Club Kingston offer the innovative design and extensive facilities that travelers expect of first-class lounges in the world’s finest airports, but they also showcase the best of Jamaica through cultural designs, local brands, and a visual journey through displays, sports and music,”  Shelly-Ann Fung, Chief Executive Officer, VIP Attractions which owns and operates Club Kingston said.

With a decidedly Jamaican flair, the lounge features artwork and décor sourced from across the country plus local food and drink including traditional Jamaican patties and peas soup – all served to a gentle soundtrack of reggae music. It has an on-site bartender who creates signature cocktails, including a ‘Club Kingston Classic’, ‘Priority Passion’ and ‘VIP Splash’. But it’s not all pleasure! The lounge also offers excellent facilities to support business travelers on the move, including a conference facility and dedicated work stations.

This year’s overall global winner went to Club Kingston followed by Tallinin Airport Business Lounge in Europe, Ahlan Business Class Lounge in Dubai for Africa and Middle East, SATS Premier Lounge in Singapore in Asia Pacific and Salon VIP Lounge in Quebec in North America.

Justin Banon, Director of Priority Pass, added: “Travelers increasingly know what they want, and are not willing to settle for less. They have greater expectations and choice when it comes to airport experiences which delight and surprise. As a result, we’re seeing increased investment and recognition of the value of lounges from airports, airlines, financial institutions and other organizations worldwide. This can only be great news for both business and leisure travelers as there is a wider choice on offer to meet the different needs of individuals. During 2017 we’ve seen this reflected in our member feedback, with lounges in different destinations recognized for their service, food and drink and business facilities.”

Priority Pass received over 72,000 ratings from its members in this year’s awards via the lounge rating function on the Priority Pass website and app. Members provide ratings on a wide range of criteria covering overall lounge quality, refreshments, staff, business facilities and ambiance.