The SilverKris Lounge in Hong Kong is still closed at the point of writing. When I flew back from Hong Kong International Airport back in end Jan the, I was offered access to the Plaza Premium Lounge. This is one of the replacements for the closed SKL. I have heard of guests getting lounge vouchers instead. I would have loved to get one rather than the lounge since it is crowded. I was in and out in less than 5 mins. The Chase Sapphire Lounge that I visited earlier with my Priority Pass was leaps better. It is kinda astonishing that with the demand and capacity restored, the SKL remains closed. This doesn’t sound like amazing planning from SQ. Follow me on a quick tour of the Plaza Premium Lounge.
Access Requirements
The Plaza Premium Lounge is open from 6.30am to 1am daily. You will be able to access this lounge if you are holding a membership from Plaza Premium. A couple of other airlines as well as credit card holders are also allowed access to the lounge. With the closure of the SilverKris Lounge, KrisFlyer Elite Gold Members, PPS Club members and premium cabin passengers are invited to use the Plaza Premium Lounge. Currently, all Star Alliance premium cabin customers, PPS Status and above holders as well as Star Alliance Status holders are allowed access to the lounge. I have also heard of vouchers being provided during this transition period. I cannot comprehend why the SKL is taking such a long time to reopen given that HKG flights are almost back to provide levels. During check-in, I was provided with a lounge voucher and could then present this to the staff at the lounge reception.
Arrival & Location
HKIA have a couple of PP lounge and this particular one is located near gate 1. It is pretty hard to find given the lack of directional signs. So do just make your way towards gate 1 and you will spot it. The lounge was crowded and even before you step foot in it, you can already find a snaking queue outside for the lounge attendants. I was welcomed into the lounge after showing my invite.
Plaza Premium Lounge
I did not spend much time in the lounge and it is also quite a struggle to get pictures given how crowded the place is. I would say that it is at around 90% capacity. There are just bits and pieces of space around the lounge. It is quite a good size. The lounge feels dark and gloomy with the lack of terminal views and natural light. It feels claustrophobic. Here are some pictures of the lounge.
Food and Drinks
Here are some pictures of the food and drinks. They are certainly subpar. All of the food items are from the buffet line. They do have an HK Style Fish Ball Noodle station.
Conclusion
With how gorgeous HKIA is. It feels like this is a lounge that you should come to for drinks and food if you have access to it. Then retreat out back to the terminal. You will be better of in public spaces. The lounge suffers from overcrowded due to how many passengers it receives from the airlines. I didn’t enjoy this place at all and felt so lucky to have access to the Chase Sapphire Lounge which I visited earlier which is better than this lounge in all aspects. Please avoid this lounge and never pay for it if the situation remains.
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