Pacific airline lounges offer serene pre-flight experiences

At Noumea La Tontouta International Airport in New Caledonia, Aircalin operates the Hibiscus Lounge on the second floor of the international terminal. It offers panoramic views of the runway and surrounding mountains. "If you're looking for a bite to eat," noted an airline representative, "you can treat yourself to the buffet with pastries, verrines, canapés and sweet petits-four." The lounge also provides WiFi and local newspapers.

The Faleolo Airport Lounge at Apia Faleolo International Airport in Samoa offers comfy seats, WiFi, food, shower facilities, and cocktails prepared by an on-site bartender. Access is free for all departing international flights and business class or premier travelers on Qantas and Fiji Airways; otherwise entry costs WS $50 ($18).

In French Polynesia's Papeete Faa'a International Airport, Air Tahiti Nui's lounge provides high-speed WiFi, a reading area with newspapers and magazines, an extensive buffet with local dishes and beverages including beers and spirits. For those not eligible for free entry to this lounge in Papeete can pay XPF 6000 ($52) at the door.

Lastly in Rarotonga International Airport in Cook Islands is Air New Zealand’s lounge which opens two-and-a-half hours before departure of Air NZ flights. Entry is permitted for Airpoints Elite members among others. The lounge includes WiFi and business facilities along with a buffet bar.