Qantas/oneworld Lounge Los Angeles, USA

It first opened more than a decade ago, and additional refurbishment and expansion in recent years has underlined this new Qantas/oneworld business lounge as one of the best in North America.

• The Airline: Qantas.
• The Lounge: The Qantas/oneworld International Business Lounge Los Angeles.
• Location: Tom Bradley International Terminal, airside departures, level 5.
• Other Airlines: oneworld airlines.
• Overview (to include decor):

California is still on the bucket list of many Australians, as well a hub for Down Under business, which keeps the Pacific routes to Los Angeles perennially busy. For business class travellers, however, along with high ranking Qantas and oneworld members, there’s an oasis of tranquility available for their use at the international terminal at LAX. It’s run by Qantas in partnership with British Airways and Cathay Pacific, with two-stage refurbishments completed in 2015. The lounge has a lovely decor and open-plan design; it’s sleek and modern, with a welcoming fireplace and a central atrium providing plenty of natural light. The colour scheme is a natural palette of rich browns, greys, vibrant orange and natural, light wood; the only downside was that it was quite dimly lit in some places, which isn’t ideal if you are keen to catch up on some work.

Food & Drink:

In keeping with its operations in Australia, Qantas has drawn on the experience of chef and restaurateur, Neil Perry, who has designed menu inspired by multicultural Californian cuisine. Offerings can include a curry, a pasta dish, plenty of salads, soups and more, along with a DIY juice station so you can make your own concoction from a choice of fruits and veggies. The bar was also well stocked, with some local brews on offer and the opportunity to have a real espresso made to order.  

Facilities:

There was a reasonable selection of newspapers and magazines, including ones from Australia, with US power points dotted everywhere and USB connections at the communal work station. The wi-fi is fast and free. Ideal for long haul passengers there are 16 shower suites which come with an en-suite toilet, and plenty of amenities including body wash, shampoo and conditioner. We visited in the early morning, so the lounge wasn’t busy. 

UltimateTravelMagazine.com Loves 

• The large number of shower suites.
• The food and drink options. 

Insider Tips  

• Complimentary passes cannot be used at this lounge. Also Emirates Skywards frequent flyers will be refused access, as it is technically a oneworld, not a Qantas, lounge.
• The lounge is open until 11.30pm or the last flight if delayed. 
• Evenings get busy ahead of overnight flights.