Dashing through London Heathrow or Moscow Sheremetyevo and need to know whether it's worth detouring to the airline lounge? Look no further than Savvy Traveller for its discriminating review of the world's top airline lounges. Facilities are ranked on a number of factors, including decor, food and beverage, business facilities, staff professionalism and courtesy and ease of access.

Turkish Airlines Lounge - Istanbul (IST)
Star Alliance

We divert to this lounge even if we've only a few minutes to spare between flights (which is often the case given the airport's large size and transit security bottlenecks). But gaining access is fast and easy with the barcode reading entry gates.
  Once inside you may not want to leave - especially if the complimentary roving massage therapist happens to be free! On top of that you will find sumptuous food islands - there is even an olive bar - ample selections of Turkish and imported wines, a pool table, mini theatre, Apple computer station, free wifi, a grand piano, beautiful washrooms and ample space to rest and relax.
  A thoughtful touch are the complimentary storage lockers near the front of the lounge. A Middle Eastern, open design, couple with European sensibility makes this one of our top-ranked lounges worldwide.
  Passengers checking-in for a flight in IST can use the fast-track immigration and security lanes at the far end of the airport, close to the lounge.

Food offerings at the Turkish Airlines lounge in IST change frequently.

Lufthansa Arrivals Lounge - Frankfurt (FRA)
Star Alliance
  This is, by far, one of the best arrival lounges we have visited. The best feature are the shower suits on Level One, which feature sizeable rooms, free pressing and L'Occitane products. Staff are very friendly, efficient and professional. The breakfast buffet is one of the best anywhere, with hot scrambled eggs, fresh meats and bread, salads, sausages and more. We loved the German potato salad. There are four work stations with desktop computers connected to the Internet. Only F class passengers qualify for the free t-mobile cards for wireless access. Staff will happily check your baggage while you enjoy the lounge. Located immediately behind the baggage claim area in Arrivals Area B, Terminal One. Open daily 0530am - 1230pm
  **The Lounge is restricted to arriving inter-continental travellers on Lufthansa (Flights LH401-799) - as long as they are F, C, SEN HON flyers.

Lufthansa Arrivals Lounge - Frankfurt Airport

  HKG Cathay Pacific The Wing / The Pier Lounges
  One World Alliance
  Cathay Pacific operates two acclaimed lounges in the cavernous Hong Kong International Airport. Both count as our hands-down favourite airport lounges. The reason is simple: the unique Noodle Bar offers some of the best dan-dan noodles anywhere! But be warned that it operates only from mid-day onwards. Add to that the spaciousness of the lounge, private shower suites, private work stations, wine bar and extensive reading materials and you'll want to stay here for hours! Situated on Levels 6 and 7 (this lounge is closest to Immigration and check-in desks), The Wing offers 4,500m2 of tranquility.
  The best perks are reserved for First Class passengers. Here, you can freshen up with a luxurious bath in The Cabanas, sample delicious cuisine in The Haven, enjoy a quiet moment with a good book in The Library.
  Located at Level 5 near gates 62-66, The Pier covers over 3900m2, and provides another alternative for First and Business Class passengers. Like The Wing, it is here that First Class passengers get their money's worth. One of the unique features at The Pier is six Day-Break Rooms. Each offers an undisturbed environment for you to enjoy a little extra privacy. Relax in front of your own TV in the legendary Balzac armchair. Useful little amenities, such as wake-up calls and waiter service with food and drinks, are also available. You can also enjoy the style and comfort of shower suites.

  JFK British Airways Terraces Lounge - Terminal 7
  One World Alliance
  Located close to departure gates and duty free shops, this is probably one of the better lounges at the aging JFK International Airport. One reason for the higher quality is that owner British Airways is in heated competition with Richard Branson's Virgin Atlantic lounge. The best perks here are reserved exclusively for British Airways premium passengers - this includes a supper buffet (for passengers departing 6pm onwards) and complimentary access to the Elemis Travel Spa (when you fly long-haul on British Airways in FIRST, Club World, or if you are an Executive Club Gold member). If you qualify for the Spa go for the Shiatsu Power Back Massage. The Terraces Lounge receives high marks for the diversity of its wine list (at least 5 were available during a recent visit) and the availability of high-speed Internet terminals. We also like the Cappuccino and Juice Bar. Snacks consist mostly of sandwiches and wraps. Lounge chairs give the lounge an informal feel. Excellent selection of international newspapers and magazines,