Etihad The House lounge opens in Melbourne this weekend just days after the opening in Sydney.
The Sydney and Melbourne openings follow the brand’s global launch at Heathrow Terminal 4 on October 5.
The House Etihad and Virgin lounge. Picture: Etihad Airlines
If you think airline lounges are just for business and first-class passengers – you need to check out The House.
The lounge is open for “eligible customers” of Etihad Airways, and those of its partner airline, Virgin Australia.
So who is eligible?
That’s the best part.
“Complimentary entry will continue to be offered to Etihad Airways Business Class and First Class customers, and to those travelling in The Residence,” Etihad said in a statement.
“Gold and Platinum members of the airline’s Etihad Guest frequent flyer programme and Business Class and First Class travellers ticketed on codeshare partner services operated by Etihad Airways will also eligible for access.”
Etihad will also offer paid-for access to The House for Economy Class travellers.
Subject to availability, passengers on other airlines can also purchase a pass to The House. So even if you aren’t flying Etihad or Virgin – you can enter the lounge.
The new Etihad The House lounge. Picture: Etihad
Why do you want it?
According to Etihad, the House has three core pillars: simplicity with sophistication, privacy with attentiveness; and tranquillity with engagement.
What that really means is luxury, privacy and a little bit of peace and quiet away from the screaming hordes in the terminal. Plus food. Hell yes, sign us up.
The House’s kitchens and bars will stock and serve local produce. You can enjoy a self-service buffet or select from an a la carte menus in the upgraded dining areas. The bars will offer cocktails and mocktails, and a selection of great Australian wines. It is the perfect way to kick off your holiday.
“In developing the new brand we worked to one very simple, but specific objective, which was to take everything that makes our lounges great, the ambience, the design, the food and beverage offering, and make it even better,” Linda Celestino, Etihad Airways Vice President Guest Experience and Delivery says.
They have also made that sophistication much more accessible for families.
The introduction of The House to Sydney and Melbourne airports underscores the importance of the Australian market to the national airline of the UAE, which has been serving Australia since 2007.
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Travel allows you to get outside your bubble. It makes you realise there are other ways to do things, and that’s OK. Plus, I am a huge fan of skiing and for the best powder – you need to head overseas.