Many lounges closed during the pandemic in Hong Kong. It’s only recently, with the city flinging open its doors to the world again, that the lounges started reopening too. Cathay Pacific just reopened its popular The Pier, as did Qantas with its lounge in May.

While we wait for the Emirates lounge, SilverKris Lounge (Singapore Airlines) and United Club (United Airlines) to reopen, we’re resting and rejuvenating at the following five-star stops.

From massages to champagne on tap, here’s where you can get some preflight R&R at Hong Kong International Airport right now.

1. Cathay Pacific (first class)

There are two first-class Cathay Pacific lounges at Hong Kong International Airport: The Wing (First Class) and The Pier (First Class).

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The Wing is located in the south departures hall transit area, and includes five stylish Cabana suites that come with a large bath and rain shower, comfortable daybed and work space. If you’re feeling peckish, The Haven restaurant serves a rotating menu of fine dining delights – with wine pairing, of course.

Meanwhile, The Pier, which reopened last month, is intended to be a home away from home – if your home also includes day suites where you can get a foot or head and shoulder massage, a restaurant area with five-star cuisine, and a horseshoe bar where you can mingle with fellow travellers. There’s also a library, bureau and showers to maximise comfort and functionality.

2. Cathay Pacific (business class)

If you’re travelling in business class, be sure to make use of Cathay Pacific’s designated lounges, which provide everything you need for a comfortable preflight experience. You have three exclusive options: The Wing (Business), The Pier (Business) and The Deck.

Located near gate two, The Wing (Business) features the popular noodle bar (with char siu buns and dan dan noodles) for an array of preflight snacks, while the Long Bar allows you to enjoy drinks with a view.

The Pier (Business) near gate 65 serves Cantonese comfort food, while unique to this lounge is a traditional teahouse experience for a sensory journey through the city’s finest brews.

Popular among busy business travellers, The Deck (near gate six) is a comfortable and well-connected lounge area to maximise productivity between destinations. Guests can order Asian specialities like Singaporean laksa, and freshen up by using the shower rooms.

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3. American Express

American Express cardholders can make use of the premium amenities available at The Centurion lounge. Located near gate 60, this five-star hub features dedicated work areas, high-speed wifi, a locally inspired menu, cocktails created by Jim Meehan from PDT at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong, and wine picked out by industry veteran Anthony Giglio.

4. Qantas

Originally opened in 2014, Qantas recently unveiled a massively refurbished lounge at HKIA.

The 21,500 sq ft space located near gate five showcases warm interiors by Australian designer David Caon, with panoramic views of Hong Kong’s Sky Bridge, a buzzing cocktail bar and delicious food menu, including the return of the much-loved dim sum trolley.

5. Plaza Premium First

Conveniently parked near gate one, Plaza Premium First invites guests to enjoy a cosy and sophisticated space with personalised service. Feast on the entrées at Primo and in the à la carte dining area, while beverages from non-alcoholic options to fine whiskeys are available at Aerobar. There are also showers ideal for if you’re making a stopover.

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6. Plaza Premium Lounge

The three Plaza Premium Lounges are among the more accessible lounges at HKIA, though this means they do get busier than most and you can often expect a queue to get in.

Still, it’s often worth the wait. The contemporary, sleek space promises delicious drinks and dining options, plenty of charging stations and add-on shower facilities at select outlets. What’s more, the lounges are spread out throughout the terminal so you can relax at one not too far from your gate.

7. Intervals

Mei Mei Song of Plaza Premium Group and bar-industry veteran, Victoria Chow, recently unveiled a new lounge concept: Intervals, offering an innovative food and drink experience on the airport’s Sky Bridge. Travellers can stop by to try artisan “flights” of cocktails. If you’re in a hurry, order the exclusive takeaway sets – specifically designed to fit on an in-flight tray table!