Asia-bound? Make sure to travel business class on Cathay Pacific! Then ensure that your travel agent books you a long layover at the Hong Kong International Airport (and if you’re staying in Hong Kong - make sure to check in to your flight early when departing!). There are six luxurious Cathay Pacific lounges (two are exclusive for first class passengers) to enjoy. On the #CL2cultures1trip, which features both Hong Kong and Thailand, we loved our time spent at The Pier Business Class Lounge - but we also got a sneak peek at the Pier First Class lounge!

Image by Maya Visnyei

Tucked behind Gate 65 at the Hong Kong International Airport there’s a discreetly elegant sign for Cathay Pacific’s The Pier Business Class Lounge. A quick descent by escalator takes travellers to the check-in area of the recently revamped 33,000 square-foot Business Class Lounge (the largest Cathay Pacific lounge in the world). Renovated three years ago by international designer Ilse Crawford of Studioilse, the lounge was designed with a soothing decor palette of natural woods, rich greens and caramel tones. Crawford’s concept was to create “fast lanes” and “slow lanes” which makes the sprawling space feels spacious, yet intimate.

The “fast lane” features a series of of different “restaurants.” There’s The Food Hall, which offers quick grab-and-go food (there’s even a dedicated barista) and then the signature Cathay Pacific Noodle Bar which features a menu of made-to-order Hong Kong noodle specialties that can be enjoyed either on old-school swivel stools at the bar or in upholstered booths. Insider tip? Order the Dan Dan noodles - a dish renowned among traveling foodies. Although Dan Dan noodles are not technically a Hong Kong speciality (Dan Dan noodles are a Szechuan dish) Cathay Pacific’s version of this noodle dish is now so famous that it is served in many other Cathay Pacific lounges internationally. The noodles will always arrive steaming hot with an array of toppings - from chili sauce to crushed peanuts - and is sublime.

Further down the “fast lane” is the famous Teahouse, which exudes the same level of sophistication you would find at any five-star teahouse in the world. There’s a focus on high-end Chinese teas but artisanal local teas and a special tea menu for bespoke blends is also available. There are always fresh-baked treats available to enjoy alongside the tea.

Image by Maya Visnyei

The “slow lane” is a series of “living rooms" that overlook the bustling tarmac. Decorated in Crawford’s inimitably sophisticated style, the spaces have soothing lighting and minimalist furniture, from Eames loungers to some of Crawford’s own furniture designs. Natural materials, from velvet to leather, as well as cherrywood panelling, live plants and local art, creates a rich and high-end residential feel. “Slow lane” is for travellers who need exactly that - a spot that is quiet and restful away from the stress of international travel.

Image by Maya Visnyei

Two gates away from The Pier Business Class lounge is The Pier First Class lounge. Also designed by Crawford, this lounge takes luxury - and warm ambience - to a whole new level. The design, from the green onyx walls to undulating velvet couches, is meant to soothe while the amenities - from 14 private marble bathrooms for showering during your layover to a sit-down restaurant with full service (and yes, the Dan Dan noodles are served here as well!) are meant to be enjoyed. It’s also a sensory experience at The Pier First Class - there’s even a signature scent of lavender, bamboo, green tea and jasmine that hangs gently on the air. And just when you thought it couldn’t get better there’s the relaxation zone, where there are eight private day suites as well as The Retreat, a private cherrywood panelled spa where travellers can enjoy complimentary foot or neck massages. And if you just want to keep it simple, enjoy a glass - or two - of Moet & Chandon Rose Brut champagne at The Bar. Trust us, you'll never want to leave. We almost missed our flights back to Toronto!