Looking back, travel used to be fashionable, luxurious, and dare we say, glamorous. Today the focus has turned to efficiency, cost-cutting and comfort-wear. While a lot of older airports are beginning to remodel, others are being entirely rebuilt, and they're beginning to bring opulence back to to world class lounges. Long wait times, delays and missed flights seemingly fade away as you put your feet up on supple leather seats and enjoy a glass of wine or scotch while watching the planes go by. Airport glamour is making a comeback.

On par with any five-star hotel, this business lounge at Doha International Airport has escalated the world’s expectations for luxury travel. With captivating Arabian design, high-end dining, tranquil ambience and optimal hospitality, Qatar Airways has achieved making the traveler feel pampered. Think of the lounge as a retreat: take a dip in the pool, lay out with a refreshing drink in hand, or rest your head for a few moments in one of their “quiet” rooms. There’s also a spa—and who doesn’t need a neck massage after carrying those bags?

Much like the sophistication of NYC, the Clubhouse at John F. Kennedy International Airport exudes “uptown” style. Upon entrance, you’re greeted by elegant couches and a complimentary cocktail bar. While food is also complimentary, you have the option to order a la carte in the dining hall. Whether you want to work on business, style your hair with Bumble & Bumble, or take a nap in the tranquility area, Virgin Atlantic provides you with whatever you need to feel right at home (or on vacation ).

The sprawling 32,000+ square foot space located in the International Terminal of Instanbul Atatürk Airport offers guests a wide range of amenities. From a social game of billiards to a quiet library and private showers, guests can relax in a comfortable, pre-flight environment. Opt to indulge in the complimentary food and beverages while resting in front of a lounge TV, or take a short snooze while serenaded by the music system.

Located in Terminal 2A of Heathrow Airport, this lounge has heightened the standards of European travel. Styled by Hong Kong celebrity designer, Kinney Chan of KCA Associates, it boasts private tranquility suites, spacious shower rooms, a spa, and a fabulous champagne and tapas bar. Relax with a few sips of bubbly or a cocktail, as the bar features both vintage and non-vintage liquors. Book a massage, and let the time fly by—you’ll be boarding before you know it.

While all Centurion Lounge locations are beautiful, the one within San Francisco International Airport heightens the travel experience. Accessed through Terminal 3 or International Terminal G, the modern lounge oozes elegance. Enjoy Napa Valley wine tastings or a refreshing shower. Munch on delicacies, such as chocolate mousse with mint cream, by chef Cédric Vongerichten, noted as Zagat’s top 30 under 30 chefs. Sip on fragrant cocktails and earthy wines by mixologist Jim Meehan and wine expert Anthony Giglio. After all, there’s never enough wine, am I right?

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